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Broadcast Technicians

Broadcast Technicians is the O*NET name for people who set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to acquire, edit, and transmit audio and video for radio or television programs. Interest ratings put Conventional on top at 5.1 out of 7 and Realistic second, so the code is CRI and the day leans toward orderly work with data, records and clear procedures. The preparation level is medium preparation, typically one or two years of vocational training, an apprenticeship or an associate’s degree. O*NET’s skill data points to operations monitoring, monitoring, and critical thinking as the ones to build. One core duty is to play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems. People who want orderly work with data, records and clear procedures usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

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.

Main tasks

  • 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.

Skills

  • Operations Monitoring
  • Monitoring
  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
  • Operation and Control
  • Systems Evaluation

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You like clear rules and getting the details right.
  • You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
  • You are willing to put in a year or two of focused training.
  • You are comfortable relying on operations monitoring and monitoring.

May not suit you if

  • You get restless with routine, records and exact procedures.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 2.1 out of 7 here.
  • You need to start within a few months, with no training period.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code CRI takes the three highest, and Conventional comes first here.

Preparation

Medium preparation. Expect vocational school, an apprenticeship, related experience or an associate’s degree, usually one or two years in total.

Also called

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

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.