Playout Controller

We believe in better. And we make it happen.  

Better content. Better products. And better careers.  

Working in Tech, Product or Data at Sky is about building the next and the new. From broadband to broadcast, streaming to mobile, SkyQ to Sky Glass, we never stand still. We optimise and innovate.  

We turn big ideas into the products, content and services millions of people love.  

And we do it all right here at Sky.  

What you’ll do  

• Schedule Preparation - performing required manual and automated tasks on the playout schedules to identify potential errors and known faults and ensure readiness for broadcast 

• Live schedule management – editing of live automation schedule to alter content or timings as required 

• Live schedule monitoring – monitoring the output of channels to confirm and maintain fault-free playout 

• Regulatory Knowledge – knowledge of Ofcom regulations and Sky policies 

• Fault Identification – immediate identification of any loss or degradation of the channel outputs, as well as loss of encryption or PIN protection 

• Fault recovery – use of system resilience or schedule editing to recover from channel loss or degradation 

• Fault management – use of on-screen messages, voice-overs, or other messaging to keep customers informed when a fault is not immediately recoverable 

• Escalation – efficient communication to 2nd line support teams and operational management 

• Editorial Knowledge – knowledge of Sky’s programming and promotional strategies. 

• Logging & Reporting – accurately recording any faults, changes, or other deviations from the originally scheduled content 

• Information Management – accurately passing on information to colleagues or operational management to ensure channel continuity 

• Communication – concise and accurate verbal and written communication, professional and courteous at all times  

• Training – passing on knowledge and experience of workflows, systems and procedures as required. Structured training of others utilising established training materials as required 

• Support – Provides support to the Playout Specialist and Operational Lead functions as required 

• Complex Live Event Management – line-up, preparation and control of complex live events including negotiation with production teams when event durations are variable or overlapping 

• Gallery Free Production – making any necessary editorial decisions to maintain channel continuity when communication with event source is incoming only e.g. World Feed 

What you’ll bring   

• Qualifications - degree qualification or relevant vocational qualifications 

• Specialist Knowledge – skilled in Playout systems and workflows, skilled in managing live events, skilled in Playout systems used by Sky, skilled in managing live Sports events 

• Industry Experience – Experience of digital playout environment, complex Live broadcast experience 

• Leadership Skills - Excellent communication & influencing skills, excellent decision making and prioritisation skills 

The Sky Playout Team works 24/7 365 days a year to ensure that Sky Customers are receiving the best quality live sports and entertainment programmes. You’ll be joining the team and working a fixed shift pattern of day, mid and night shifts.  

The rewards  

There's one thing people can't stop talking about when it comes to #LifeAtSky: the perks. Here’s a taster:  

• Sky Q, for the TV you love all in one place  

• The magic of Sky Glass at an exclusive rate  

• A generous pension package  

• Private healthcare  

• Discounted mobile and broadband  

• A wide range of Sky VIP rewards and experiences