How to Be Broadcast Automation Engineer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

May 4, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

Broadcast Automation Engineers are responsible for ensuring that equipment used in the broadcasting industry operates in a reliable and efficient manner. They are responsible for monitoring radio and television transmissions and making sure that all equipment is properly maintained and working correctly. Poorly maintained equipment can cause disruptions in broadcasts, which can have a negative effect on viewership and listener ratings.

if the equipment malfunctions during a live broadcast it can lead to costly repairs and lost revenue. To prevent these issues, Broadcast Automation Engineers must be knowledgeable in all aspects of broadcast automation, including hardware, software, and broadcasting regulations. They must also be vigilant in monitoring systems and quickly troubleshoot any issues that arise.

By having a skilled Broadcast Automation Engineer on staff, broadcasting companies can ensure that their broadcasts remain uninterrupted and running without any technical difficulties.

Steps How to Become

Earn a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a broadcast automation engineer is to earn a bachelors degree in an engineering-related field such as electrical engineering, computer engineering, or software engineering. Coursework in these programs typically includes calculus, physics, and computer programming.
Gain Experience. It is important to gain experience in the field of broadcast automation engineering. This can be done through internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work.
Obtain Certification. Certification is not required to become a broadcast automation engineer, but it can be beneficial to have certification from organizations such as the Society of Broadcast Engineers or the National Association of Broadcasters.
Obtain Licensure. Depending on the state, broadcast automation engineers may need to obtain a license in order to practice. Licensure requirements vary from state to state.
Stay Up-to-Date on Technology. Broadcast automation engineers need to stay up-to-date on the latest technology in the field. This can be done by attending seminars, conferences, and courses offered by manufacturers, vendors, and professional organizations.

Broadcast automation engineering is a profession that requires a high level of skill and competence. It involves the use of complex technologies such as software and hardware to automate the production and broadcasting of media content. In order to become a competent broadcast automation engineer, a person must have an understanding of the related technologies and processes involved.

They must also be adept at problem-solving, troubleshooting, and have good communication skills to effectively coordinate with other departments. A strong knowledge of computer programming and the ability to work independently are also essential to success in this field. With the right training and experience, broadcast automation engineers can build a successful career in the industry.

You may want to check Digital Broadcasting Support Technician, Digital Broadcast Engineer, and Broadcast Operator for alternative.

Job Description

Design and develop automation systems for broadcast operations
Manage and maintain broadcast automation systems
Configure and optimize broadcast automation systems
Troubleshoot, diagnose and repair broadcast automation systems
Monitor broadcast automation systems for performance and reliability
Create technical documentation for broadcast automation systems
Develop new features and functions for broadcast automation systems
Train users on how to use broadcast automation systems
Liaise with suppliers and vendors to source, install and configure broadcast automation systems
Develop scripts for automation of broadcast processes

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of broadcast automation systems and technologies
Ability to troubleshoot and diagnose technical issues with broadcast systems
Proficiency in using computers to configure and maintain broadcast systems
Understanding of broadcast signal flow and routing
Ability to configure and program broadcast automation systems
Experience with Windows and Linux operating systems
Knowledge of video and audio codecs
Understanding of network protocols such as TCP/IP and UDP
Familiarity with video streaming technologies
Ability to program or script to automate tasks
Knowledge of digital media formats and standards
Experience with broadcast software such as ProTools, Final Cut Pro, and Adobe Creative Suite
Understanding of media asset management systems
Experience with content delivery networks
Ability to write technical documentation and instructions

Broadcast automation engineering requires a wide range of technical skills and knowledge in order to be successful. These skills include a strong understanding of computer systems, audio/video technologies, networking, scripting, and programming. engineers must be able to troubleshoot and debug problems quickly, while always maintaining a high level of accuracy.

The ability to work with various types of people, such as producers, directors, and other engineers, is also a valuable skill. With these skills and knowledge, broadcast automation engineers are able to create efficient, automated systems that enable broadcasters to quickly and accurately produce their content. This in turn saves them time and money while providing their audiences with the quality that they expect.

Assistant Broadcast Content Producer, Chief Broadcast Technician, and Satellite Broadcast Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

How would you describe your experience working as a broadcast automation engineer?
Tell me about a challenging experience you had working on a broadcast automation project.
How do you stay up to date with the latest broadcast automation technologies?
Do you have experience working with any specific media management systems, such as Dalet, RCS, and others?
What strategies do you use to ensure the quality of broadcast automation systems?
What challenges have you faced in your career when it comes to working with broadcasters and other stakeholders?
What do you think are the most important qualities for a successful broadcast automation engineer?
Describe a unique solution you implemented for a broadcast automation project.
What techniques do you use for troubleshooting broadcast automation issues?
How do you handle difficult customer expectations when it comes to broadcast automation projects?

Common Tools in Industry

Broadcast Automation Software. software used to automate the scheduling, playback and control of audio/video content in broadcast environments. (eg: ENCO DAD)
Video Server. a system that stores and plays back digital video content. (eg: Grass Valley K2 Summit)
Audio Mixer. a device used to combine, route and/or change the level, timbre and/or dynamics of audio signals. (eg: Yamaha MG10XU)
Networked Control System. a system that allows automation components to be connected and controlled over a network. (eg: Ross Video DashBoard)
Audio Processing Tools. software used to enhance audio signals for broadcast purposes. (eg: iZotope RX7)
Playout Systems. software used to play out audio/video content from a central server to multiple output devices. (eg: Avid Playmaker)
Automation Protocols. protocols used to facilitate communication between automation components. (eg: Evertz VDCP Protocol)
Digital Asset Management System. a system for managing digital assets such as audio and video files. (eg: Telestream Asset Manager)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE)
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)
Audio Engineering Society (AES)
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)
National Radio Systems Committee (NRSC)
Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE)
Radio & Television Digital News Association (RTDNA)
Radio & Television Business Report (RBR-TVBR)
International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers (IABM)
International Association of Media and Technology Professionals (IAMTP)

We also have Assistant Broadcast Engineer, Remote Broadcasting Technician, and Broadcast Media Technologist jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Broadcast Automation System. A system of hardware and software used to automate the broadcast of television and radio programs. It can allow for the scheduling, playout, and logging of audio/video content.
Audio/Video Playlist. A sequence of audio and video clips to be played in order (playlist) during a broadcast.
On-Air Broadcasting System. A system of hardware and software used to facilitate the transmission of audio/video content from the broadcast studio to the public.
Signal Processing. A set of techniques used to modify, enhance or manipulate audio/video signals for broadcast.
Digital Media File Formats. File formats used to store digital media, such as audio and video files. Examples include MP3, AAC, WAV, AVI, MPEG-2, etc.
Media Asset Management. The process of organizing, cataloguing and managing digital media files.
Digital Video Effects (DVE). Special visual effects used to manipulate video clips for broadcast. Examples include flips, fades, dissolves, wipes, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Broadcast Automation Engineer do?

A Broadcast Automation Engineer is responsible for the installation, maintenance and operation of broadcast automation systems, including the programming of playlists, scheduling of content, and integration of equipment.

What are some of the technical skills required of a Broadcast Automation Engineer?

A Broadcast Automation Engineer should have a working knowledge of computers and software, such as Windows and Linux operating systems, audio and video editing software, and various automation platforms. They must also be able to troubleshoot and repair hardware and software issues.

What qualifications are needed to become a Broadcast Automation Engineer?

To become a Broadcast Automation Engineer, it is usually required to have a college degree in a related field such as engineering, computer science or media production. Technical certifications may also be needed.

How much does a Broadcast Automation Engineer typically earn?

The salary of a Broadcast Automation Engineer can vary depending on the region and level of experience. Generally, they can earn an average salary of $50,000 to $70,000 per year.

What type of work environment does a Broadcast Automation Engineer typically work in?

Broadcast Automation Engineers work in television and radio studios, as well as other media production facilities. They may work in a team environment, as well as independently.