Broadcast Technicians

Career summary

Broadcast technicians may also be called broadcast engineers.

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Most broadcast technicians work for radio and TV studios. They are in charge of equipment used to record and broadcast radio and television shows. This equipment includes:

• Microphones
• Cameras
• Tape recorders
• Special effects mixers

Technicians install, set up, test, and operate this equipment. When broadcasting shows, they operate equipment that controls the quality of the sound and picture. On news programs, technicians operate controls that shift from studio to on-the-scene reporting. They switch between local and satellite sources to blend national and local coverage of a story. Before broadcasting a scheduled program, technicians ensure that signals work properly.

Technicians decide what equipment to use to record programs. They review the script so they know when to switch cameras and other equipment. They also insert commercial breaks. 

Some broadcast technicians work for news shows and drive vans to the location of the news event. They talk to reporters and camera operators to determine how to set up the equipment. They set up equipment to record and transmit clear signals back to the studio. They also use computer programs to edit audio and video recordings.

In large stations, technicians may specialize in:

• Audio
• Video
• Maintenance and repair
• Broadcasting signals

In small stations, broadcast technicians perform various duties. Experienced technicians may teach trainees how to use equipment.

Broadcast technicians maintain a log of all programs aired or recorded. They review the log before broadcasting begins. Technicians file the log with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Some technicians schedule shows. They may also write reports for station officials describing past and future broadcasts.

Related careers

This career is part of the Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Announcers
• Audio-Visual Specialists
• Camera Operators
• Communications Equipment Mechanics
• Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers
• Film and Video Editors
• Sound Engineering Technicians

Military careers

• Audiovisual and Broadcast Technicians

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to broadcast technicians.

• Maintain and file programming logs to the FCC (Federal Communications Commission).
• Operate controls that regulate sound and picture.
• Preview and schedule programming.
• Make sure signals are functioning properly before transmitting program.
• Use computers to edit broadcast audio and video programs.
• Plan and run recording sessions.
• Maintain and repair equipment. Modify equipment to meet program needs.
• Select equipment to use for taping or live broadcasts.
• Set up equipment at field locations and send signal back to station.
• Train others to use equipment.
• Direct technical personnel during filming.
• Write reports describing past and future programming. May direct new trainees and schedule workers.

Common work activities

Broadcast technicians perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Get information needed to do the job
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Repair and maintain electronic equipment
• Document and record information
• Inspect equipment, structures, or materials
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Evaluate information against standards
• Process information
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Control machines and processes
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Think creatively
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Analyze data or information
• Schedule work and activities
• Develop and build teams
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Repair and maintain mechanical equipment
• Teach others
• Develop goals and strategies
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Perform activities that use the whole body
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Provide advice and consultation to others
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, broadcast technicians:

Interpersonal relationships

• Have a high level of social interaction. They talk to coworkers daily, but also spend some time alone setting up equipment.
• Work and coordinate with a team to broadcast programs.
• Communicate with coworkers daily by telephone, e-mail, and in person.
• Are responsible for the work results of the technicians they supervise.

Physical work conditions

• Almost always work indoors in studios. However, they sometimes work outdoors or in vehicles at filming locations.
• Work somewhat close to other people, such as when sharing a recording studio or office.

Work performance

• Must be very accurate in their job. Accurate placement and control of equipment sends a quality broadcast. Errors can result in a disruption in the broadcast.
• Meet strict programming schedules daily and work in a moderately competitive environment.
• Can make most decisions without talking to a supervisor. These decisions may affect coworkers and the station programming.
• Can set most tasks, goals, and priorities without consulting a supervisor.
• Are able to repeat the same physical tasks when operating equipment and computers.
• Must keep pace with their equipment and program schedules.

Hours/travel

• Usually work 40 hours per week.
• Sometimes work evenings and weekends.

Physical demands

Broadcast technicians frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.
• Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.

It is important for broadcast technicians to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Understand the speech of another person.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for broadcast technicians to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Focus on one source of sound and ignore others.
• Move two or more limbs together (for example, two arms, two legs, or one leg and one arm) while remaining in place.
• Adjust body movements or equipment controls to keep pace with speed changes of moving objects.
• React quickly using hands, fingers, or feet.
• Use muscles to lift, push, pull, or carry heavy objects.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Be physically active for long periods without getting tired or out of breath.
• Bend, stretch, twist, or reach out.
• Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Choose quickly and correctly among various movements when responding to different signals.
• Use muscles for extended periods without getting tired.
• Determine the distance between objects.

Skills and abilities

Broadcast technicians need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Understand spoken information.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Read and understand work-related materials.

Reason and problem solve

• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Check how well one is learning or doing something.
• Manage the time of self and others.

Work with people

• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.

Work with things

• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.
• Maintain equipment on a routine basis. Determine when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
• Operate and control equipment.
• Determine the causes of technical problems and find solutions for them.

Perceive and visualize

• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
• Imagine how something will look if it is moved around or its parts are rearranged.
• Quickly and accurately compare letters, numbers, objects, pictures, or patterns.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Communications Operations Technology
• Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Animation, Video Graphics, and Special Effects
• Broadcast Journalism
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technology
• Electrical and Electronics Equipment Installation and Repair
• Multimedia and Intermedia
• Photography
• Recording Arts Technology

Training

To work as a broadcast technician, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have an associate degree; and
• complete short-term, on-the-job training.

Education after high school

Broadcast technicians must have an associate degree. You can get training at technical schools, colleges and universities, and community colleges. Many broadcast technicians have a bachelor's degree.

Work experience

Look for schools that have their own radio or television station. These schools offer internships where you will learn broadcasting skills. Another option is to do an internship at a local radio or TV station.

On-the-job training

Technicians learn additional skills on the job from experienced technicians. Most technicians start at small radio and television stations. Training may last up to one month.

Because technology changes rapidly, technicians occasionally take courses to learn about the latest developments. Employers usually pay tuition and expenses for technicians to attend these courses.

Military training

The military trains people to be broadcast technicians. Training lasts from seven to 52 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

Helpful high school courses

You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements . You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Electronics
• Film and Videotape
• Photography

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Employers require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. They look for applicants who pay attention to details and enjoy working with electronics. They also look for applicants who have good communication skills.

Some employers prefer applicants who are certified by the Society of Broadcast Engineers.

Many employers require some post-high school electronics training. Employers expect applicants to know FCC rules and regulations for broadcasters, even though no test is required. Television stations generally require two years of technical training in broadcast technology. As technology moves from analog to digital, employers seek applicants with computer hardware and software skills. Employers look for workers who are self-confident, well groomed, and have a positive attitude.

For experienced workers, opportunities to change employers are limited in any given geographical area. Experienced workers find transfer to related occupations difficult because their work is so specialized.

Tips

A strong background in solid-state electronics and microcomputers is helpful. Visit broadcasting stations and cable companies to learn more about the job. On-the-job experience is often a must. One way to gain experience is through an internship. Get as much training in computer and digital video production as possible and gain experience in specific areas of interest. Take basic journalism classes and develop your writing skills. Keep up to date on the latest equipment and become familiar with basic radio and TV broadcast procedures and terms.

To be hired at a radio or TV station, a person might freelance part time as a technician and service several stations at once. This is more common in smaller communities. After gaining experience, a technician may be able to move to larger stations in larger communities, where the pay is usually higher and the competition for jobs is stronger. Many large corporations and satellite cable companies hire broadcast technicians. Entry-level technicians shouldn't restrict themselves to network affiliates.

Costs to workers

In Washington, about half of the broadcast technicians belong to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and pay monthly dues. Some technicians must purchase their own tools, but these are often supplied by the employer.

Licensing/certification

Many employers require broadcast technicians to be certified. For information about certification requirements, contact:

The Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc. 
 

Job listings

Listed below are links to job categories from the National Labor Exchange that relate to this career. Once you get a list of jobs, you can view information about individual jobs and find out how to apply. If your job search finds too many openings, or if you wish to search for jobs outside of Washington, you will need to refine your search.

• Broadcast Technicians 

To get a listing of current jobs from the WorkSource system, go to the WorkSource website .

Wages

The minimum wage for Washington State as of January 1, 2020 is $13.50 per hour. Some areas of the state may have a higher minimum wage.

Wages vary by employer. Television stations usually pay more than radio stations. Commercial broadcasting pays more than public broadcasting. Stations in large cities pay the most.

Broadcast technicians who work full time usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. 

Employment and outlook

Washington outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Radio and TV broadcasting companies
• Movie and TV production companies

National outlook

Job growth is expected to be slow in this occupation. Many television stations are consolidating the broadcasting duties of multiple local stations into one single site. In addition, automation will reduce the need for technicians. However, more consumers are choosing free over-the-air television programming which may lead to an increased demand for broadcast technician.

Competition for jobs will be very strong as many people want to work in the television and radio industry. Turnover in this occupation is high. Most openings occur as people leave the industry for other jobs in the electronics field. Technicians with an associate degree in broadcast technology have the best job prospects. Job prospects are also expected to be best in small cities and towns.

Other resources

Corporation for Public Broadcasting 
401 - 9th Street NW
Washington, DC 20004
202.879.9600

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

Federal Communications Commission 
445 - 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554
888.225.5322

iNARTE - International Association for Radio, Telecommunications, and Electromagnetics 
PO Box 602
Milwaukee, WI 53201-0602
888.722.2440

International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers 
900 Seventh Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.833.7000

National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians-Communications Workers of America 
501 - 3rd Street NW
Washington, DC 20001
202.434.1254

National Association of Broadcasters 
1771 N Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
202.429.5300

SAG-AFTRA 
5757 Wilshire Boulevard, 7th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90036
855.724.2387

Showbizjobs.com 

Society of Broadcast Engineers 
9102 North Meridian Street, Suite 150
Indianapolis, IN 46260
317.846.9000

Society of Women Engineers 
130 East Randolph Street, Suite 3500
Chicago, IL 60601
877.793.4636

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians 
P. O. Box 378
Hillsboro, TX 76645
800.946.0201

TV Jobs 

TVTechnology 

References

Career cluster

• Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, and Communications

Career path

• Realistic (Technical)

O*Net  occupation

• Broadcast Technicians (27-4012.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed. Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.

DOT occupations

• Access Coordinator, Cable Television (194.122-010) 
• Audio Operator (194.262-010) 
• Field Engineer (193.262-018) 
• Field Supervisor, Broadcast (193.167-014) 
• Master Control Operator (194.262-022) 
• Technical Testing Engineer (194.381-010) 
• Technician, News Gathering (194.362-022) 
• Telecine Operator (194.362-018) 
• Television Technician (194.062-010) 
• Video Operator (194.282-010) 
• Videotape Operator (194.382-018) 

Holland occupational cluster

• Realistic/Conventional/Investigative

COPSystem

• Technology Skilled