Job Title: Junior Automation Director
Job Ref: JAD - 450
Closing Date: 19th September 2025
Summary
Reporting to the Lead Programme Director, the Junior Automation Director will work in tandem with the Automation director in delivering a diverse set of programmes for Volant Media using automation technology.
Together with the Production and Newsroom teams, the Junior Automation Director role will ensure that the programme is exactly as intended through the use of automation systems and adheres to channel guidelines for audio and visual presentation.
The Junior Automation Director will assist the Automation Director in preparing and managing running orders, allowing for smooth and dynamic programming across all of Volant’s output.
As a junior member of the Director team, they will be expected to trail more senior members to gain experience, with the goal of developing their skills to take on the responsibility of directing some non-primetime and overnight programming, whilst committed to performing co-director duties across all Volant’s programming.
The role is on a shift basis which will also include nights.
Responsibilities
* Co-directing in an automated environment across all of Volant’s programming, including prime time shows and special events.
* Assisting the smooth running of the live and non-live galleries and studios.
* Manage the Automation Graphical User Interface (GUI) and scanning for workflow problems whilst On Air.
* Anticipating challenges and finding solutions in a live environment.
* Facilitate Ad-hoc requirements by taking items “to air”, using the automation GUI.
* Coordinate with the Automation Director and perform Gallery line ups and Studio Checks prior to broadcast, as well as lining up of Outside sources.
* Adhering to established programme formats and maintaining continuity of programme styles and workflows.
* Directing non-prime time output, including night programming. This includes the responsibilities of preparing the NCS running orders with correct code to ensure that programmes are delivered as intended, reporting back workflow errors to the newsroom
* On Air quality control of the following broadcast components:
* NCS Running Order templates
* Audio level management
* Studio robotic camera framing
* Studio lighting
* Graphics
* Ability to support the training process of other Junior Automation Directors.
* Adhering to correct H&S practices.
* Following and enacting Broadcast Operation’s protocols and policies correctly.
* Keeping up to date with departmental documentation and communications in relation to updates to working practices.
* Reporting of issues and escalation of incidents to the business in relation to operational faults and working practices.
* Be across changes and how it impacts your role.
* To undertake any other reasonable duties as required.
Requirements
* The Junior Automation Director is required to be a calm and effective operator and must demonstrate composure under pressure.
* Looking to gain experience to direct non-prime time programming, including overnight programming in an automated environment.
* Required to work collaboratively with editorial and operational colleagues, with the ability to take firm and decisive action during programme changes and breaking news.
* A knowledge of world news is important, as well as having a passion for news broadcasting.
* The Junior Automation Director will have a good understanding of each of the production components in a gallery, including multi-camera directing, cameras, lighting, sound, and graphics.
* Experience of working in an automation gallery is desirable.
* Ability to operate foreign language programming and understand the different dynamic this involves.
* To be willing and able to work effectively on a variety of different shifts, including overnights, weekends and public holidays.
* Understanding of Health and Safety in the workplace.
* Gallery and studio experience is essential.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Excellent timekeeping and organisational skills.