Director I

Disney is hiring a Director I at ESPN in Bristol, CT, with a focus on live and taped studio and remote productions. This role sits in the directing department, responsible for calling the show from the control room across scripted and unscripted formats, including conventional and automated production workflows. It suits an experienced live television director who is as comfortable managing people as they are managing a rundown.

About the Role

This position supports ESPN’s Spanish-language content, working alongside Coordinating Producers and Producers to shape how shows look, sound, and flow from pre-production through air. On any given day, a Director I at this level is coding rundowns for automated productions, blocking cameras, coordinating live shots, and troubleshooting technical issues in real time. The role carries genuine supervisory weight, with ongoing mentorship responsibilities for Associate Directors and Stage Managers built into the position.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct live and taped productions from the control room or mobile unit, executing all elements of both scripted and unscripted live television formats.
• Oversee camera blocking, lighting, graphics integration, and visual effects to maintain broadcast quality standards throughout each production.
• Code rundowns and coordinate live shots during automated productions, including troubleshooting technical issues when an Associate Director is not present.
• Participate in pre-production and post-production meetings with Managers and Producers to develop editorial themes, narratives, and show concepts.
• Coach and mentor Associate Directors and Stage Managers, providing written performance feedback to Directing Management with specific, detailed examples.
• Contribute to periodic clip review sessions with Director IIs and Managers as part of an ongoing professional development process.

What You Bring

• A minimum of five years of directing or closely related experience in live television production or broadcast production environments.
• In-depth knowledge of live directing across studio production, remote production, and REMI workflows.
• Proficiency with production equipment and facilities used in both conventional and automated control room settings.
• The ability to make quick decisions under pressure during live broadcast production without losing clarity of communication.
• Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English is preferred for this role.
• A high school diploma or equivalent is required, with a bachelor’s degree in broadcasting, communications, or journalism preferred.

Why This Role

ESPN’s Bristol operation is one of the most active live television production hubs in the country, with a volume and variety of output that few broadcasters match. This Director I position offers real mentorship responsibility and visibility across multiple show units, which is meaningful for someone looking to grow into senior directing roles. The hiring range for this position in Bristol, CT is $115,500.00 to $154,800.00 per year.

Apply now for the Director I role at Disney and bring your live broadcast production experience to one of the most recognized names in sports television.