Job Summary

CBS Los Angeles is building a pool of experienced freelance Broadcast Audio Engineers for per diem/on-call work supporting live newscasts, breaking news coverage, special programming, and productions across CBS LA (KCBS/KCAL). As a per diem freelancer, you will be called in for specific shifts or events (typically 8–12 hour calls, with potential for early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, or overnight as news demands). This role is ideal for seasoned professionals available for flexible, project-based work in one of the country's top media markets.
You will handle high-stakes live audio mixing and technical audio support, ensuring broadcast-quality sound under tight deadlines.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate broadcast audio consoles for live studio newscasts, control room ops, and occasional field/remotes.
• Mix and balance audio from anchors, reporters, field talent, wireless systems, playback, music, effects, and external feeds to meet CBS quality and standards.
• Set up, test, patch, and troubleshoot audio systems, including microphones, IFB, intercoms (RTS/Clear-Com), wireless lavs/shotguns, and embedded audio in SDI/IP workflows.
• Monitor levels, apply processing (EQ, compression, noise reduction), and resolve issues in real-time during on-air broadcasts.
• Collaborate with production teams (producers, directors, TDs) to execute audio plans for news blocks, live shots, and specials.
• Support routine audio gear checks and minor field fixes when on call.
• Adhere to FCC rules, CBS technical specs, and loudness guidelines.
• Be available for short-notice calls, especially for breaking news or high-priority events.

Qualifications & Requirements

Required:
o 4+ years of professional experience as a Broadcast Audio Engineer (A1/A2 level) in live television, preferably news in a major market.
o Hands-on expertise with professional broadcast mixing consoles and live audio workflows.
o Solid knowledge of audio signal flow, Dante/AoIP, embedded audio, mix-minus, comms systems, and newsroom tools (e.g., i News, Grass Valley).
o Proven ability to perform under live on-air pressure with quick troubleshooting.
o Reliable transportation and flexibility for variable/on-call scheduling in the LA area.
o High school diploma or equivalent; relevant technical training preferred.

CBS News and Stations, brings together the power of CBS News, 28 owned television stations in 17 major U.S. markets, the CBS News Streaming Network, CBS News Streaming local platforms, local websites and cbsnews.com, under one umbrella. CBS News and Stations is home to the nation’s #1 news program 60 MINUTES, the CBS News Streaming Network, the first 24/7 digital streaming news network, the award-winning broadcasts CBS MORNINGS, CBS SATURDAY MORNING, the CBS EVENING NEWS, CBS SUNDAY MORNING, CBS WEEKEND EVENING NEWS, 48 HOURS and FACE THE NATION WITH MARGARET BRENNAN. CBS News and Stations provides news and information for the CBS Television Network, CBSNews.com, CBS News Radio and podcasts, Paramount +, all digital platforms, and the CBS News Streaming Network, the premier 24/7 anchored streaming news service that is available free to everyone with access to the internet. The CBS News Streaming Network is the destination for breaking news, live events, original reporting and storytelling, and programs from CBS News and Stations’ top anchors and correspondents working locally, nationally and around the globe. CBS News’ streaming services, across national and local, amassed more than 1.01 billion streams in 2021. Launched in November 2014 as CBSN, the CBS News Streaming Network is available on 30 digital platforms and apps, as well as CBSNews.com and Paramount+. The service is available live in 91 countries. CBS News and Stations is dedicated to providing the highest quality journalism under standards it pioneered and continues to set in today’s digital age. CBS News earns more prestigious journalism awards than any other broadcast news division.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Hiring Salary Range: $64.77 - 64.77.

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. [cust_pay TransSTIP] [cust_pay Trans Sales Inc]

Organizations that wish to receive job vacancy notices from this posting’s television station should contact sf_recruitingsupport@paramount.com.

Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet.

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