Broadcast Technicians
What is a Broadcast Technician?
Broadcast technicians are essential professionals in the field of media and communication, responsible for overseeing and maintaining the technical equipment used in television, radio, and other broadcasting environments. They play a critical role in ensuring that audio and video equipment functions optimally, allowing for high-quality transmission of content to audiences. Broadcast technicians may work in various settings, including studios, remote production sites, and transmission facilities. Their tasks often include setting up equipment before broadcasts, monitoring the quality of signals during transmission, troubleshooting and repairing technical problems, and sometimes operating cameras and video equipment during live events. With the advancement of technology, broadcast technicians are also increasingly involved in digital broadcasting and the maintenance of online streaming platforms. This career requires a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work under pressure, particularly during live broadcasts where any technical failures could have significant repercussions. Education typically includes a degree or diploma in broadcasting, telecommunications, or a related field, along with hands-on experience in the industry.
Tasks
- Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
- Monitor and log transmitter readings.
- Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
- Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
- Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
Technology Skills
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Video creation and editing software
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Apple Final Cut Pro
- Video encoder software
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Operating system software
- Cisco IOS
- Linux
- Microsoft Windows
- UNIX
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Photoshop
Tools Used
- Video editors
- Media control systems
- Audio mixing consoles
- Satellite receivers
- Oscilloscopes
Knowledge
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
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Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
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Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
Skills
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
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Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
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Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
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Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Abilities
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Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Associate's degree
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Some college, no degree
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
Work Activities
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
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Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Detailed Work Activities
- Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
- Notify others of equipment problems.
- Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment.
- Maintain logs of production activities.
- Monitor broadcasting operations to ensure proper functioning.
Work Interests
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$28080.0 - $125410.0
New job opportunities are less likely in the future. : Below Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.