Ingest Specialist

Description:

FREE TV NETWORKS JOB DESCRIPTION

TITLE: Ingest Specialist

REPORTS TO: Director, Technical Media Operations

DEPARTMENT: Media Operations

Overview

Responsible for ingestion and quality control of media assets into the networks’ storage and media management systems, including receiving, cataloging, and prepping media for review and editing by network departments.

Responsibilities

FRONT END:

• Receive and ingest raw media files as provided by distribution partners, and perform QC to assure media meets network specifications, including audio and video quality, resolution, aspect ratio, format, caption presence, total run time, and presence and duration of end credits. Maintain records in Media Management Database.
• Digitize, convert, and/or improve quality of media files to optimal levels, formats or resolutions as needed for broadcast.
• Enter material ID information into media management database, for availability by S&P, Media Operations, Program Edit, Programming, and Content Management.
• Provide digital screeners for S&P, Media Operations, and Programming teams.
• Prep digital files for Program Editors: create and maintain media folders and assure file naming convention matches and provides clarity to teams surrounding the media content and quality. Update file names as needed.
• Perform coverage for Back End Ingest Specialist.
• Assist Technical Operations Director in Restoring/Renewing titles from archive.

BACK END:

• QC edited media before delivery to assure all necessary edits, formatting and disclaimers have been applied; captions are present and properly formatted; and file plays out as expected.
• Segment and deliver programming to Master Control through Loading Dock interface.
• Check Asset Base for and deliver missing media daily.
• Perform daily QC of playlist for timing discrepancies, and work with Technical Operations Director to resolve.
• Perform coverage for Front End Ingest Specialist.

Work Environment

Work in the office three days per week and work remotely two days per week. Normal office environment.

Requirements:

Education & Experience

• Minimum 3 years’ experience in a broadcast network environment.
• Bachelor’s degree Mass Communication/TV Broadcasting preferred and/or equivalent work experience.

Skills & Abilities

• Proficiency of Microsoft Office 365, Windows 11, and MAC OS necessary.
• Firm grasp of on-air broadcast workflows and systems.
• Should understand compression and possess relevant computer skills to move media around the facility.
• Strong knowledge of the following digital formats: MXF XD Cam 50, MXF IMX 30, H.264, mpeg2, QuickTime MOV.
• Knowledge of Broadcast conversion formats (1080i, 720p, 480i) and aspect ratios.
• Basic math skills and understanding of military time.
• Able to prioritize and execute tasks in a high-traffic, deadline driven environment.
• Flexibility to work when required (weekends, holidays + after hours if needed).