Production Network and Communications Engineer Field Based Position
About CineArk CineArk is the trusted technical partner to the world's most ambitious productions, from studio features to high-end television and broadcast. Operating from London, Dublin, and Cardiff, we specialise in video, RF, data, DIT, internet and comms, with a focus on supporting physical production by connecting people and technology. Our commitment to innovation, technical excellence, reliability, and support has established us as the leading specialist in our field.
Brief Role Description We are seeking an experienced Production Network and Communications Engineer to join our team. In this full time, primarily field based role, you will work on location on major feature film and high end TV productions, ensuring that on set connectivity and communications run smoothly. You will be responsible for rigging, configuring, and supporting mobile network, internet and comms systems (including Starlink satellite internet, bonded 4G/5G solutions, network, RF & comms infrastructure) to keep our productions connected. This role involves hands on deployment of networking and comms equipment, troubleshooting in real time, and client facing support for various production departments on set. If you are passionate about networking technology and excited by the film/TV production environment, this role offers a unique opportunity to apply your skills on some of the biggest productions in the industry.
Role and Responsibilities
- Deploy On Set Internet Connectivity: Rig and configure mobile internet solutions - e.g. Starlink satellite units and bonded 4G/5G cellular routers - to provide dependable high speed connectivity on set, even in challenging locations.
- Network Infrastructure Setup: Set up and manage on set network infrastructure including switches, wireless access points, and VLAN configurations. Ensure proper IP addressing schemes and network segmentation for different production departments and services. Make sure all equipment is correctly rigged and optimally configured for on location use.
- RF Systems: (Training will be provided for this. A background in RF is not required)
- Assist with the deployment and support of RF systems used on set, including COFDM for wireless video transmission and mesh networking equipment for distributed connectivity.
- Set up antennas, receivers, and associated infrastructure to ensure stable, long range RF signal coverage across varied shooting environments.
- Work closely with the broader CineArk RF team to ensure smooth operation of wireless camera links, video transmitters, and crew connectivity platforms.
- Monitor spectrum usage and troubleshoot interference or signal degradation issues as they arise.
- Comms Systems: (Training will be provided for this. A background in Comms is not required)
- Deploy and maintain wireless crew communication systems, including Riedel Bolero or equivalent DECT/partyline platforms.
- Ensure base stations, antennas, and belt packs are correctly configured and tested before filming begins.
- Provide technical support to production staff using comms equipment, including training on basic use and battery management.
- Troubleshoot dropouts, audio issues, or range limitations in fast paced production environments.
- On Set Support: Act as the point of contact on set for connectivity, streaming, and communications support. Work closely with departments like DIT, Editorial, VFX, Camera, and others to ensure they have reliable network access, video streaming feeds, and comms links as required for their workflows. Provide friendly, proactive technical support in a high pressure, live production environment.
- Troubleshooting: Monitor network performance and swiftly troubleshoot any connectivity or communication issues that arise during filming. Minimize downtime by diagnosing problems (whether with internet uplink, Wi Fi coverage, VoIP phones, intercoms, etc.) and implementing fixes or workarounds on the fly.
- Cross Team Coordination: Liaise with production IT, service providers, or off site support teams as necessary to maintain robust internet service. Coordinate with CineArk's central team for any escalations or additional resources needed to solve on set network challenges.
- Equipment Maintenance: When not on site, work from CineArk HQ to prep and test equipment before it goes to set, and perform routine maintenance or updates on networking and comms kits. Document configurations or settings used for each production to aid in support and repeatability.
- Unit Moves: When not assigned to on set duties, you may sometimes be required to assist with relocating equipment between production locations. These unit moves can take place overnight or on weekends, depending on production schedules, and involve the safe transport and setup of networking and comms equipment at the next site.
- CineArk Culture: Demonstrate CineArk's values in all daily tasks and interactions.
Candidate Requirements
- Strong Networking Knowledge: Deep understanding of networking principles and protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, routing, switching). VLAN configuration and IP addressing skills are absolutely essential - you must be able to design and manage segmented networks on set with confidence.
- Hands On Experience: Proven experience setting up and supporting network infrastructure. You should be comfortable configuring routers, switches, Wi Fi access points, and troubleshooting connectivity issues under real world conditions.
- Flexibility & Adaptability: Willingness to travel to various filming locations and adapt to the dynamic nature of production schedules. You thrive in fast paced environments and can adjust to last minute changes or challenging conditions with a cool head. (Our work on set is often unpredictable - we need someone who adapts to meet the challenge.)
- Client Facing Skills: Good communication and interpersonal skills. You will be on set alongside film crew and department heads, so a professional, service oriented attitude is a must. You can translate tech talk into plain language and are willing to help users who are not technical.
- Problem Solving Under Pressure: Strong analytical and troubleshooting abilities, especially in high pressure situations. When the internet drops or a network switch fails during a crucial shot, you can methodically identify the issue and resolve it quickly to keep the production running.
- Driving License: Full UK driving licence (manual transmission) - required. This role involves transporting equipment to sets and unit bases, some of which may be in remote areas, so being able to drive manual vehicles is non negotiable.
- Work Ethic: Self motivated and reliable, with excellent organizational skills. You can manage your time between on set duties and prep/maintenance tasks. You take ownership of problems and see them through to resolution. You also work well independently and as part of a larger team of technicians.
- Discretion: Trusted to handle sensitive information in highly sensitive areas of film production.
Preferred
- Firewall and Security Experience: Familiarity with network security and firewall configuration (e.g. setting up VPNs, access control lists). This helps in managing secure connections for production data and remote collaboration.
- RF & Communications Knowledge: Experience with radio frequency communications or intercom systems. Knowledge of Riedel Bolero or similar wireless systems is a plus.
- Certifications: Networking certifications such as CCNA Wireless, CCNA Security, MCSA, Cisco and CompTIA are advantageous.
- Media over IP Standards: Exposure to broadcast/production IT standards like SMPTE ST 2110, AES67 and PTPv2. These are not required but understanding them will be beneficial as the industry moves toward IP based workflows.
- Broadcast/Production Experience: Prior experience working in film, TV, or broadcast environments is a plus. Understanding the on set culture and workflow will help you hit the ground running, though it's not essential if you have strong core skills and willingness to learn.
(Note: We value a willingness to learn - if you lack some of the above "desirables" but are keen to pick them up, we will provide training. For example, if you're strong in general networking but new to RF comms or SMPTE standards, we'll support you in getting up to speed)
Working Conditions
- Field Based Locations: This role is primarily on location at production sites. You will work on major feature film sets, studios, and on remote unit bases as needed. Expect a mix of outdoor and indoor environments depending on the shoot - from sound stages in London to on location shoots that could be anywhere the script demands.
- Travel: Travel is part of the job. Productions may film across the UK and occasionally abroad, so you must be willing to travel. All travel and accommodation, if required, will be arranged or reimbursed.
- Flexible Hours: Standard hours on production are approximately 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Monday to Friday, but flexibility is essential. Film schedules can involve early starts, late "wraps" (finishing times), night work, and occasional weekend work. You'll need to accommodate some overtime when shoots go long or when tight deadlines demand it. (Overtime is paid - see below.) In addition . click apply for full job details