Broadcast Technicians
Broadcast technicians set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to acquire, edit, and transmit audio and video for radio or television programs. They control and adjust incoming and outgoing broadcast signals to regulate the sound volume, signal strength, and signal clarity. Moreover, they operate the satellite, microwave, or other transmitter equipment to broadcast radio or television programs.
The broadcast technician's job responsibilities entail reporting the news and other events to an audience through several media platforms that may include: television, radio, internet and social media. Broadcasting spans many industries, including sports, fashion, entertainment and the news.
Broadcast and sound engineering technicians need at least a bachelor’s degree in broadcast technology, electrical or electronic engineering, communication, journalism or a related field. Coursework should include math, science, production management, and video editing.
Broadcast technicians' education requirements work within broadcast or recording studios, although they also may work in event spaces, such as hotels, entertainment venues and arenas. They serve a support role, normally reporting to the lead engineer, technical support manager or director of engineering.
Broadcast and radio technicians enjoy lucrative pay packages and earnings rise significantly depending on higher qualifications, performances, and promotion.
Both radio technicians and broadcast technicians should be excellent communicators with presentation skills and the ability to generate original ideas, be aware of media rules, confident and problem solvers.
To be a successful broadcast and radio technician, one needs to have enthusiasm, persistence and a proactive approach to hunting for jobs and work experience.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.Tech Media and Sound Engineering
- B.Tech Electrical and Electronics Engineering
- Diploma Audio and Music Production
Tasks
- Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
- Control audio equipment to regulate the volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
- Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
- Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
- Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
- Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
- Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
- Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
- Record sound onto tape or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
- Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
Progression Routes
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