Position Details

Primary Duties/Responsibilities:

The Maintenance Engineer for OPB’s Central and Eastern regions assists the Bend-based Chief Engineer in the design, configuration, installation, updating, emergency repair, preventative maintenance, and operation of the technology that supports OPB’s content delivery systems. This includes television and radio transmission facilities, television and radio translators, microwave and fiber optic distribution systems, two-way radio systems, and traditional IT infrastructure such as switches, servers, and LAN/WAN equipment. This position also safely performs routine maintenance on the facilities and infrastructure supporting these systems. Maintenance Engineers will also occasionally travel to aid Chief Engineers in the other regions of OPB’s state-wide broadcast network.

Working Conditions:

This work is primarily based out of the Bend offices and works throughout the Central and Eastern Oregon regions, but may require work in other OPB regions. Much of this work will be at transmission facilities and involves varying shifts to respond to technical emergencies including evenings, weekends and holidays with possible callbacks and periods of being on-call for 24 hours. Travel and work at remote sites will require the operation of (and possibly the need to perform, in the field, basic emergency mechanical repairs to) 4-wheel drive vehicles and tracked snow vehicles. On occasion, operation of forklift, boom lift, or other heavy equipment will be required. The work will require the use of hand tools, electronic test equipment, power tools, and may involve working alone.

Exposure to very high voltages and RF non-ionizing radiation is possible at most sites. The work may require challenging physical activity, including lifting up to 50 pounds and moving up to 75 pounds, working in inclement weather, walking or hiking around 2 miles (possibly in snowshoes), and possible tower climbing.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, administrative and planning work that would typically be completed at OPB’s Bend facility may take place remotely.

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience with the technical design, construction, maintenance, and operation of complex electronic systems such as broadcast, radio, radar, microwave, cellular, communications, or military tactical systems.
  • Experience with IP-based technology, including routers, switches, and LAN/WAN management.
  • Experience with and solid understanding of the fundamentals of signal flow in complex systems.
  • Experience with system and equipment level troubleshooting skills including at component level.
  • Experience operating 4WD off-road vehicles, including knowledge of safe operation on unimproved, muddy, or snowy roads.
  • Good computer skills, with knowledge of computer-based control systems, browser-based GUI’s, and office software programs.
  • Good oral and written communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical information and instruction clearly and effectively to co-workers.
  • Must be tactful, maintain harmonious relationships with co-workers and interact with co-workers and the public in a professional and competent manner.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
  • Ability to work independently and under minimal supervision.
  • Ability to manage projects effectively and efficiently.
  • Basic mechanical and safety skills including experience with basic mechanical assembly, experience with power tools, and experience working on vehicles.
  • Ability to work outdoors in inclement weather, including knowledge of outdoor safety and best practices when working in challenging remote conditions, including cold weather survival and wilderness first aid.
  • Enthusiasm for the mission of OPB.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in electronics, computer science, telecommunications or broadcast engineering.
  • Experience with RF and electronic theory as it applies to broadcast systems, including radio and television translators, high power transmitters, and microwave systems.
  • Experience maintaining AM radio transmission systems.
  • Experience with system design and documentation using either CAD and/or Visio.
  • Tower climbing experience or tower/rigging certification.
  • SBE Certification.

The probable hiring range for this position is between $26 and $32 an hour, depending on qualifications.

Click HERE for additional information and application instructions.

Application Deadline

Position open until filled.