Broadcast Technicians

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This occupation is part of the Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media cluster

About the Job

Set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to transmit radio and television programs. Control audio equipment to regulate volume level and quality of sound during radio and television broadcasts. Operate transmitter to broadcast radio or television programs.

It is also Called

  • Assistant Engineer
  • Audio Engineer
  • Audio Operator
  • Audio Technician
  • Audio/Video Technician
  • Board Operator
  • Broadcast Engineer
  • Broadcast Field Supervisor
  • Broadcast Maintenance Engineer
  • Broadcast Maintenance Technician

What They Do

  • 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.
  • Monitor and log transmitter readings.
  • Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
  • Play and record broadcast programs using automation systems.
  • Control audio equipment to regulate the volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
  • Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
  • Maintain programming logs, as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
  • Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
  • Select sources from which programming will be received, or through which programming will be transmitted.

Interests

People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: RCI.

This means people who work in this occupation generally have Realistic interests, but also prefer Conventional and Investigative environments.

Work Values

People who work in this occupation generally prize Support, but also value Achievement and Independence in their jobs.

Things They Need to Know

  • Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
  • Telecommunications - Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Administration and Management - Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.

Things They Need to Be Able to Do

  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Operation Monitoring - Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • 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.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Education Required

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Wages

In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $48,780.00 with most people making between $20,020.00 and $87,190.00

Outlook

1.59%
avg. annual growth

During 2010, this occupation employed approximately 6,300 people in California. It is projected that there will be 7,200 employed in 2020.

This occupation will have about 100 openings due to growth and about 180 replacement openings for approximately 280 total annual openings.

Common College Majors

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