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Reports To: Radio Producer
Contract Duration: 10 months

UBONGO is Africa's leading producer of kids' edutainment. As a non-profit social enterprise, we create fun, localised, and multi-platform educational content that helps kids learn, and leverage their learning to change their lives. Ubongo reaches over 27 million kids across Africa through accessible technologies like TV, radio, and mobile phones. Our show’s Ubongo Kids and Akili and Me currently air in 23 countries across Africa in multiple languages.

Job Overview

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Sound Engineer to join our Radio team at Ubongo, focusing on two dynamic projects: vibrant kids' edutainment radio shows and an insightful adult caregiver-focused radio show. The ideal candidate will have technical expertise, creative flair, and the ability to adapt sound design to diverse audiences, ensuring high-quality audio production that enhances storytelling and engagement.

Key Responsibilities

1. Pre-Production
   • Collaborate with writers and producers to understand audio requirements for each show.
   • Design soundscapes suitable for the target audience, including playful tones for the kids' show and calming yet professional tones for the caregiver show.
   • Source, create, or refine sound effects and music tracks to complement program themes.
2. Recording
   • Set up, operate, and maintain recording equipment during live and pre-recorded sessions.
   • Ensure consistent sound quality across all productions
   • Troubleshoot technical issues promptly to avoid production delays.
3. Post-Production
   • Edit and mix recorded audio using industry-standard software Logic Pro
   • Synchronize music, sound effects, and voiceovers seamlessly to maintain high production quality.
   • Creatively and Technically apply sound-engineering techniques, such as, Compression (Multiband, Dynamic, etc) , EQ.
   • Perform audio mastering to meet broadcasting standards.
4. Quality Control
   • Conduct sound checks and ensure all content is free from distortion, noise, and technical flaws.
   • Maintain audio files in an organized library for future use.
5. Collaboration
   • Work closely with the creative team to ensure sound aligns with the show's educational and emotional objectives.
   • Adapt quickly to feedback and implement changes to enhance final output.
6. Technical Maintenance
   • Regularly inspect and maintain audio equipment to ensure optimal performance.
   • Keep up-to-date with industry trends and recommend upgrades or new technologies when needed.

Qualifications

EDUCATION:
Recommended Qualification - Certificate, Diploma or Degree in Sound Engineering, Audio Production, or a related field.

NOTE: Candidates without formal education in sound engineering may be considered provided that they have relevant work experience.

Experience:

Mandatory:

• At least 2 years of experience as a Sound Engineer, in Radio or Podcast production or 5 years of experience for those who do not have formal education in sound engineering
• Experience working with writers and using scripts as guidance for production

Added advantage:

• Familiarity with audio needs for diverse audiences, especially Children and Caregivers.
• Sound Design for Radio Drama and Other Creative Audio Projects

Skills

• Proven expertise in audio editing and mixing software
• Corrective Sounding Engineering techniques
• Testing and Operating equipment before Field or Studio recording sessions
• Maintaining the Sound Quality of Recordings
• Troubleshooting equipment and software issues
• Basic understanding and Demonstrable usage of music theory in composition.
• Be fluent in written and spoken English and Kiswahili
• Exceptional attention to detail and a strong ear for sound quality.
• Creative problem-solving skills and adaptability.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
• Coordinating with other team members, including producers, directors and performers
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Duration

The Contract will last a period of 10 months from the date of contract signing, with renewal based on the organization's needs

DEADLINE:
The last day to receive applications for this position will be 16th February, 2025.

Please note that only online applications will be considered. Those who come directly to the office with a CV or who email their CV to us will simply be directed to apply online

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

UBONGO provides equal employment opportunities to all its employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or any other characteristic protected by the laws of the country we are operating in.

JOB SCAM WARNING

Our organization upholds a strict commitment to a fair, unbiased hiring process through BambooHR or very qualified recruitment agencies and shortlisting decisions are based solely on candidates' qualifications, skills and experience relevant to the position.
Beware of any individuals claiming to have influence over our hiring decisions or requesting favors in exchange for guaranteed shortlisting or employment opportunities. Such actions are against our policies and do not reflect our organization's values.