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Broadcast Technicians

Set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to acquire, edit, and transmit audio and video for radio or television programs. Control and adjust incoming and outgoing broadcast signals to regulate sound volume, signal strength, and signal clarity. Operate satellite, microwave, or other transmitter equipment to broadcast radio or television programs.

What you’d do

  • Play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems.
  • Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
  • Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
  • Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
  • Control audio equipment to regulate volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
  • Monitor and log transmitter readings.
  • Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.

Skills that matter

  • Critical Thinking
  • Monitoring
  • Operations Monitoring
  • Active Listening
  • Operation and Control
  • Quality Control Analysis

How to get there

Medium preparation: usually vocational school, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree

Also called

  • Board Operator
  • Broadcast Engineer
  • Broadcast Maintenance Engineer
  • Control Operator
  • Audio Engineer
  • Broadcast Operations Engineer

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