Plant Engineer – Television & Radio Broadcast Facilities

GENERAL FUNCTION:
The Plant Engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance and reliability of all technical infrastructure supporting 24/7 broadcast television, radio and web operations. This includes all HVAC, equipment, electrical distribution gear, generators, UPS systems and other related electrical equipment that support studios, control rooms, transmitter spaces, disaster recovery support location and CER (Central Equipment Room). Provides oversight for design and installation of new HVAC and electrical equipment, as well as construction within C-SPAN spaces. Manages technology department procurement and assists with oversight of departmental operational budgets. Other duties as assigned.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Electrical Power Systems

• Monitors and maintains critical electrical systems including switchgear, PDUs, ATS units, generators, UPS systems and other similar electrical equipment (panel boards, breakers, etc). Oversees the design and installation of any new electrical equipment including items noted above.
• Performs routine testing of generators and other equipment as determined.
• Monitors and advises on any electrical connections within the workspace.
• Manages all service contracts with appropriate vendors and oversees all maintenance of electrical systems. Responds to power events, alarms and any failures to minimize impact.
• Works with CFO to contract with outside electricity suppliers for best pricing. Tracks usage via power invoices.
• Reviews and approves all new electrical loads associated with any new installation, ensuring proper distribution.
• Maintains accurate documentation and as-built drawings. Acts as liaison with building engineers and management for all electrical requirements.

HAVC and Environmental Systems

• Maintains HVAC systems serving studios, control rooms, data center and workspace, working with HVAC and control vendors and engineers.
• Responds during and after hours (shared with on-call engineer) to critical HVAC issues by ensuring vendors handle these issues in a timely manner.
• Manages contracts with HVAC vendors, inspecting their work and tracking all maintenance efforts.
• Ensures proper temperature, humidity and airflow to protect broadcast and IT equipment as well as workspace, including remote sites (DR and Radio).
• Replaces AHU filters and other easily maintained HVAC equipment.
• Trains support staff on control system and protocols for maintenance.
• Oversees design, procurement and installation of new mechanical systems, including chillers, AHUs, VAV boxes, humidifiers, control system and other similar equipment.
• Maintains accurate documentation and as-built drawings.

Budgeting and Procurement

• Assists in the development of annual technology operating budgets with an emphasis on cost effectiveness.
• Reviews monthly financial statements and elaborates on any significant variances.
• Works with Technology department head to negotiate contracts and complete purchase requisitions. Reviews all terms and conditions and works with legal department to ensure standards are met.
• Follows procurement procedures and policies with ordering any technology related items/equipment.
• Supports the execution of the capital budget and works with finance to maintain asset tagging process.

Equipment Installation and Inventory Tracking/Reporting

• Manages all technical installations confirming electrical and mechanical loads do not exceed thresholds.
• In conjunction with CTO, develops and manages technical standards and wiring specifications for all equipment (including remote facilities).
• Oversees installations for appropriate wiring and meeting all technical requirements/standards.
• Works with other departments to maintain equipment inventories.
• Maintains adequate shelf spares (for key systems).

Construction of Facilities

• In conjunction with Administration and Technology, works with architects and MEP engineers on implementing design and space planning projects.
• Requests and evaluates all construction bids, making recommendations on final selections.
• Maintains construction budget and provides value engineering options for new construction including bid process and change orders. Manages the permitting and inspection processes.
• Oversees general contractors and subcontractors with any new construction work.
• Ensures all architectural and MEP drawings are up-to-date and facilitates any required as-built documents.

BACKGROUND/SKILLS:

• Thorough understanding of mechanical and electrical systems with an emphasis on reliability and redundancy.
• Proficiency with all facets of construction including MEP (mechanical, electrical and plumbing) systems, drywall, flooring, lighting, acoustic builds, millwork, glass and other television network specialties.
• Experience with budgeting and negotiating contracts.
• Ability to work across departments, balancing needs and requirements for space and technical rooms.
• Excellent communication skills required with emphasis on quick responses.
• Willingness to work various hours pending needs and to accept calls for emergencies.
• Ability to develop creative solutions to complex problems.
• Bachelor's degree in construction management or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of seven years of MEP and construction management.
• Understanding of broadcast television, facilities a plus.
• Ability to lift 40lbs.
• Experience with replacing HVAC filters and other similar equipment. Willingness to do minor repairs to facilities.