Television Director / Stage Manager, TV

Job Description

ABC7/WLS, the ABC Owned Television station in Chicago, IL has an opening for a collaborative Television Director/ Stage Manager who is responsible for directing live broadcast and streaming news programs utilizing automated television production systems. This position also requires extensive knowledge of television audio setup and execution for studio and field productions. The candidate must be willing to work a flexible work schedule that may include early mornings, nights, weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities:
• Directing live local newscasts and taped special programs using the Ross Overdrive production system
• Directing live and taped special event programs
• Operate and manage sophisticated broadcast equipment, including video switchers, audio consoles, and graphics systems, to produce high-quality television content.
• Work closely with producers, camera operators, audio technicians, and other team members to execute the directorial vision and achieve production goals.
• Contribute creative ideas for enhancing the visual appeal of broadcasts, including camera angles, shot composition, and graphic elements.
• Quickly identify and address technical issues during live broadcasts to minimize downtime and maintain the highest broadcast standards.
• Effectively communicate with on-air talent, production staff, and other stakeholders to ensure a cohesive and polished final product.
• Demonstrate flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced, dynamic television production environment, especially during breaking news situations.

Required Qualifications & Skills:
• Strong production background in News broadcasting and Local Programming
• Minimum of 5 years Director/ Technical Director experience
• Must be able to work with News Producers, Program Producers and studio crew personnel in a demanding, automated production environment

Preferred Qualifications:
• Knowledge of video and audio servers and graphics systems.
• Experience setting up microphones, pre-fades, IFB 's etc. for live studio and field productions
• A self-starter with strong organizational skills

Required Education:
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience. College Degree in TV Communications or Journalism preferred

Additional Information:
• This position is covered under the Company's collective bargaining agreement with DGA
• This role is considered on-site, which means the employee will work from a Company designated location on an ongoing basis
• Reporting Location – Chicago, IL

About Disney Entertainment Television:

Disney Entertainment Television is a collection of renowned content brands at The Walt Disney Company creating original entertainment and news programming for the company's streaming platforms Disney+, Hulu and Star, and its broadcast and cable networks. Its extensive portfolio is comprised of ABC Entertainment, ABC News, ABC Owned Television Stations, Disney Branded Television, Freeform, FX, Hulu Originals, National Geographic Content and Onyx Collective, in addition to Disney Television Studios, which include 20th Television, 20th Television Animation, ABC Signature and Walt Disney Television Alternative. Responsible for over 4,500 hours of programming a year across more than 300 programs of all genres, Disney Entertainment Television's creative brands are at the forefront of groundbreaking storytelling, captivating audiences and generating critical acclaim. In 2023, Disney Entertainment Television's programming excellence earned 163 Emmy® nominations across daytime, primetime, news & documentary, and children's & family categories.

This position is with WLS Television, Inc., which is part of a business we call Disney Entertainment Television.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-g6wnm8-18-191-154-2-42 in your application.