How to Be Broadcast Technician Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jan 16, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Broadcast technician specialists are essential to the broadcasting industry. They ensure that all hardware and software used in broadcasting is properly maintained and correctly operated. The role of a broadcast technician specialist is to keep the equipment running smoothly, troubleshoot any technical issues, and continuously monitor the broadcast systems.

Without the expertise of broadcast technician specialists, the quality of broadcasts could suffer and the risk of technical issues arising could increase. Broadcasting companies rely on broadcast technician specialists to keep their equipment up-to-date and running efficiently, allowing them to produce high-quality broadcasts for their audiences. This, in turn, increases their viewership and revenue.

Therefore, broadcast technician specialists play a key role in the broadcasting industry by ensuring that broadcasts are of the highest quality and that hardware and software are running efficiently.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require at least a high school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certification before they will consider applications for broadcast technician specialist positions.
Acquire a degree in a relevant field. Broadcast technician specialists need to be familiar with electronics and broadcasting principles, so obtaining an associates degree in broadcasting technology, electronics, or a related field can give applicants an advantage when competing for jobs.
Participate in an internship or apprenticeship program. Internships and apprenticeships provide hands-on experience in the field and are usually part of broadcasting technology degree programs. These programs are often sponsored by television networks and radio stations.
Obtain certification from a recognized certifying organization. Certifications provide evidence of a technicians knowledge and skills and may be required for certain positions. The Society of Broadcast Engineers offers the Certified Broadcast Networking Technician (CBNT) designation for broadcast technicians who demonstrate a high level of expertise in their field.
Get a job as a broadcast technician specialist. Broadcast technician specialists typically work for television networks, radio stations, production companies, and other media outlets. Applicants should search online job boards, newspapers, and recruitment agencies for available positions.

The Broadcast Technician Specialist requires a reliable and competent individual to ensure successful delivery of broadcasting services. To become reliable and competent, the individual must have the necessary skills and knowledge to complete tasks accurately and efficiently. This includes an understanding of the principles of broadcast technology, the ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and solve technical problems, and a comprehensive knowledge of broadcasting standards, regulations, and formats.

The individual must also have excellent communication skills and be able to work both independently and as part of a team. With these skills, the Broadcast Technician Specialist can offer quality solutions to clients while meeting the demands of the broadcasting industry.

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Job Description

Set up and operate radio and television broadcast equipment, including audio consoles, microphones, sound speakers, video screens, and digital recording devices.
Monitor broadcasts, making sure sound and image quality are maintained and that equipment is functioning properly.
Maintain and repair broadcast equipment, including troubleshooting problems and performing preventive maintenance.
Make adjustments to ensure signals meet Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards.
Collaborate with production staff, directors, and engineers to ensure broadcasts are of the highest quality.
Set up video editing equipment and software to generate visuals for broadcast.
Monitor news feeds, audio levels, and signals during live broadcasts.
Prepare and install wiring for broadcast equipment in studios and remote locations.
Create graphics or special effects for broadcast using computer programs or other software.
Maintain emergency broadcasting system according to FCC regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of broadcast standards, such as EBU, SMPTE, and ITU
Expertise in audio and video signal processing
Experience with various broadcast systems, such as cameras, switchers, audio consoles, and production equipment
Expertise in installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of broadcast systems
Ability to set up and operate broadcast equipment in both studio and field environments
Knowledge of network technologies and systems
Understanding of digital media formats and associated workflows
Familiarity with broadcast automation systems
Familiarity with satellite and IP based transmission systems
Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines

Broadcast Technician Specialists are an integral part of the television and radio industry. Their expertise in the field is essential for executing successful broadcasts. One of the most important skills necessary for a Broadcast Technician Specialist to have is technical proficiency.

This includes the knowledge and ability to operate and troubleshoot various audio and video equipment such as cameras, microphones, mixers, switchers, and more. it is important for Broadcast Technician Specialists to be highly organized and detail-oriented in order to ensure that equipment is properly set up and maintained. Furthermore, strong communication skills are critical in order to effectively collaborate with colleagues and clients.

When these skills are combined, Broadcast Technician Specialists are able to efficiently deliver quality broadcasts that adhere to industry standards and exceed the expectations of their clients.

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Frequent Interview Questions

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest broadcast and multimedia technologies?
Tell me about a recent multimedia project that you completed.
Describe your experience with troubleshooting and resolving technical issues with broadcast and multimedia equipment.
What strategies do you use for quickly diagnosing and solving problems with broadcast equipment?
What is your experience with digital audio and video editing systems?
Explain how you collaborate with other broadcast professionals such as producers, directors, and engineers.
How comfortable are you with setting up and using broadcast production equipment such as cameras, switchers, and audio mixers?
Describe a time when you successfully managed a large broadcasting project under tight deadlines.
What measures do you take to ensure that all broadcast equipment is functioning correctly?
How do you ensure that all broadcast signals are transmitted in optimal quality?

Common Tools in Industry

Radio Frequency (RF) Meter. A device used to measure the strength of radio signals. (e. g. Bird Technologies Group 8100A-LF)
Wireless Microphone System. A device used to transmit audio signals between two or more points without the need for wired connections. (e. g. Lectrosonics SRb)
Video Switcher. A device used to switch between multiple video sources. (e. g. Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio Pro HD)
Signal Generator. A device used to generate electrical signals for testing purposes. (e. g. Tektronix AFG3252)
Antenna Analyzer. A device used to measure the characteristics of an antenna. (e. g. Bird Technologies Group 43)
Audio Analyzer. A device used to measure the characteristics of audio signals. (e. g. Audio Precision APx525)
Cable Tester. A device used to test the integrity of various types of cables. (e. g. Fluke DTX 1800)
Network Analyzer. A device used to measure the performance of a network and its components. (e. g. Fluke EtherScope Series II)
Oscilloscope. A device used to measure voltage and other electrical signals over time. (e. g. Tektronix TDS3034C)
Modulator/Demodulator. A device used to encode and decode digital signals for transmission or reception. (e. g. Rohde & Schwarz VTE-K20)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE)
International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM)
Audio Engineering Society (AES)
Radio Club of America (RCA)
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
International Broadcasting Convention (IBC)
Association of Federal Communications Consulting Engineers (AFCCE)
Broadcast Education Association (BEA)

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Common Important Terms

Broadcast System. A broadcast system is a combination of hardware and software components used to transmit audio and visual signals, such as television and radio programs, to the public.
Transmitter. A transmitter is a device used to send out radio waves, which are used to carry audio and visual signals such as television and radio programs.
Antenna. An antenna is a device used to receive and transmit radio waves, which are used to carry audio and visual signals such as television and radio programs.
Receiver. A receiver is a device used to receive radio waves, which are used to carry audio and visual signals such as television and radio programs.
Modulation. Modulation is the process of changing the properties of a signal (such as frequency, amplitude, or phase) in order to transmit it over a communications channel.
Demodulation. Demodulation is the process of recovering an original signal from a modulated one.
Mixer. A mixer is a device used to combine two or more audio signals into one signal.
Amplifier. An amplifier is a device used to increase the power of a signal.
Satellite. A satellite is an artificial object placed in orbit around the Earth for communication purposes.
Cable Television. Cable television is a form of television broadcasting delivered via coaxial cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Broadcast Technician Specialist do?

A Broadcast Technician Specialist is responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing broadcast equipment used in radio and television production. They may also be responsible for setting up recording and broadcasting equipment, and helping with the development of new broadcast systems.

What qualifications are required to be a Broadcast Technician Specialist?

To be a Broadcast Technician Specialist, you typically need to have a Bachelor's degree in Broadcasting, Radio/Television/Film, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. You also need to have experience with broadcast equipment and technical knowledge of audio and video production.

What kind of tasks does a Broadcast Technician Specialist perform?

Broadcast Technician Specialists typically perform tasks such as setting up and operating audio and video equipment, troubleshooting and repairing broadcast equipment, configuring and testing broadcasting systems, and assisting with the development of new broadcast systems.

What type of environment do Broadcast Technician Specialists work in?

Broadcast Technician Specialists typically work in a studio environment, where they are responsible for operating and maintaining broadcast equipment. They may also work on-site at various events or locations, such as live sporting events or concerts.

What is the average salary of a Broadcast Technician Specialist?

The average salary of a Broadcast Technician Specialist is around $50,000 per year. Salaries can vary depending on the type of employer, level of experience, and location.