Lead Studio Operator
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10152959 Location Bristol, Connecticut, United States Business ESPN Date posted Jun. 12, 2026Job Summary:
The Lead Studio Operator must demonstrate leadership & mastery of operational skills and abilities in the use of all broadcast equipment and technology within assigned operating areas, including but not limited to camera jib systems, camera stabilization systems, high-definition studio cameras, pedestals and lenses, camera control units, color correction, studio routing, server-based playback devices, studio lighting, PC and console-based lighting boards, robotic camera operation, virtual technology, and general studio awareness.
Responsibilities:
- Expert understanding of video scopes (waveform, vectorscope, etc.) and applies information to match and correct camera and scenic monitor levels.
- Mastery of various camera control units (Sony, Grass Valley, Cyanview etc.) to match and shade cameras.
- Use color correctors to adjust scenic monitor levels.
- Utilize ION lighting boards to light talent and scenic elements.
- Work with and implement multiple camera/lens types (Sony, Grass Valley, Canon, Fujinon, etc.) for live productions.
- Exceptional operating skills with robotic camera systems (Ross, Vinten, Telemetrics, Panasonic PTZs).
- In-depth understanding of virtual and augmented reality graphics.
- Competently handle multi-source routing (Evertz punch panels, Grass Valley router panels, etc.).
- Work with remote camera systems for live shots, such as AzzurroCam, Glowpoint, TVU, etc.
- Operate jib cameras, steadi cam, robotic cameras and video conferencing equipment.
- Expert operating skills and ability to perform under strict timelines and/or live conditions with little supervision
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of workflow, equipment, facility layouts and troubleshooting practices as they relate to operational assignments
- Conduct quality control procedures and take corrective actions to ensure and/or enhance product
- Recommend and integrate new technology and workflows in order to create accurate and efficient results in specific assignments or future plans.
- Participate in training programs, (physical, classroom, virtual, etc.) for personal career development, new equipment and/or workflow changes within the operation. Also expected to participate in the training of others and generate training documentation. Will influence training programs and timelines for staff development.
- Significant ability to identify problems, recommend solutions and/or resolve operational errors and equipment failures.
- Keep abreast of technology and workflows to create accurate and efficient results in specific assignments or future plans
- Must work independently, manage simultaneous projects, and follow through on assignments.
- As necessary, participate in or lead team-based projects and contribute recommendations towards departmental objectives
- Advanced understanding of workflow in other business units, including their impact and/or specific integration with Production Operations
- Expected to fully comprehend and comply with applicable SOP’s and subsequent workflows for assigned areas. Also expected to participate in the authoring, updating and improvement of departmental SOP’s and other policies. Provide exceptional service to all customers, as defined and assigned by management
- Expected to leverage personal experience/knowledge in order to influence training programs and timelines for staff development, and organize special initiatives.
- Take the lead role and/or oversee special events and projects as necessary.
- Lead team meetings on a variety of topics; evaluating staff issues, action items, workflow concerns, etc.
- Expected to initiate productive interactions with coworkers and clients. Together, complete the expected assignments based on timelines and pre-determined guidelines
- Expected to provide mentoring, coaching, and role-modeling to other staff members and/or peers. Champion team-building and development initiatives.
- Expected to lead change initiatives, share work experiences and offer solutions and/or training to complex workflows and system challenges.
- Expected to lead in forecast planning for complex operations with regard to location, workflow, personnel & facility allocation.
- Independently provide efficient and successful solutions to all customers in specific production or construction as defined and assigned by management.
- May train in and/or be assigned any other duties needed to help achieve business objectives
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum of 8 years practical TV Production or related experience at the large market or network level
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays
- Flexibility to alter shifts/days off and work overtime to accommodate projects and departmental objectives
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bilingual (written and spoken) – English/Spanish
Required Education:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent
Preferred Education
- Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Studio Production, Journalism, or related field
- Vocational School Certification
- Related Experience
Additional Information: (i.e. physical requirements, holiday, nights, weekend shifts, etc.)
- Position requires ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays. Flexibility to come in early/stay late
The hiring range for this position in Bristol, CT is $95,500to $128,000 per year based on a 40 hour work week. The amount of hours scheduled per week may vary based on business needs. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
About ESPN:
Working at ESPN is unlike anything else. That’s because we’re always finding new ways to interact with fans – however and wherever they connect with sports. Every day we’re doing things that no one has done, all in a dynamic culture where we defy odds and continuously outdo ourselves. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with ESPN Productions, Inc, which is part of a business we call ESPN.
ESPN Productions, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.