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

Mar 13, 2021 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Broadcast Technician is to set up and maintain broadcasting equipment and systems. This is an essential job in the broadcasting industry, as the quality of the broadcast depends on the efficient functioning of this equipment. The technician is responsible for installing the necessary components, making sure they are all working properly and troubleshooting any problems that may arise.

If the technician fails to keep the equipment and systems functioning properly, it can lead to delays in broadcast, and even worse, complete disruption of the broadcast, which can have a very negative effect on the broadcaster's reputation. Therefore, it is essential for Broadcast Technicians to be highly trained and experienced in the field, as well as having a good knowledge of the broadcasting industry.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Most employers require broadcast technicians to have a high school diploma or GED.
Pursue postsecondary education. While there are some entry-level positions available for broadcast technicians without formal postsecondary education, earning an associate degree in broadcast technology or a related field can increase job opportunities.
Participate in an internship or apprenticeship program. Many internships and apprenticeships are available through local television stations, radio stations, and film production companies. This type of hands-on experience can give broadcast technicians an advantage when seeking employment.
Acquire necessary skills. Broadcast technicians must have an understanding of electronics, broadcasting equipment, and audio and video production.
Seek employment. Broadcast technicians typically work for television stations, radio stations, and film production companies. They may also find work in corporate settings or with educational institutions.
Earn certification. Some employers require broadcast technicians to be certified. Certification is available through organizations such as the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE).

A reliable and competent Broadcast Technician must have the right technical knowledge and experience to be successful. This includes a deep understanding of broadcast equipment, such as cameras, audio systems, and editing software. it is essential for a Broadcast Technician to stay up to date with the latest industry trends and techniques.

This can be accomplished by regularly attending conferences and workshops, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals. Furthermore, having strong communication and problem-solving skills is essential for a Broadcast Technician to be able to troubleshoot effectively and efficiently. With the right combination of technical knowledge, staying up to date with industry trends and techniques, and possessing strong communication and problem-solving skills, a Broadcast Technician can become reliable and competent.

You may want to check Assistant Broadcast Coordinator, Radio Broadcast Engineer, and Broadcast Content Producer for alternative.

Job Description

Set up and operate broadcast and audio visual equipment, including cameras, video monitors, microphones, and sound speakers.
Monitor and adjust equipment to ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshoot and repair technical problems with broadcasting and audio visual equipment.
Install, maintain, and repair broadcast and audio visual equipment.
Perform regular maintenance on broadcast and audio visual equipment.
Work with engineers to ensure proper operation of broadcasting systems.
Monitor and adjust broadcast signals to ensure the highest quality of sound and video.
Operate remote broadcasting equipment to record and transmit audio and video feeds.
Set up, maintain, and troubleshoot network systems for broadcasting.
Prepare and edit video footage for broadcast.
Monitor news feeds and other data sources to ensure accuracy of broadcasts.
Maintain records of broadcasts, equipment maintenance, and other related activities.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of broadcast production equipment, including cameras, lighting, audio, and video
Ability to maintain and troubleshoot broadcast equipment
Proficiency in operating and configuring digital audio boards and consoles
Ability to set up and operate live remote transmission systems
Knowledge of professional video and audio recording techniques
Understanding of broadcast signal flow and networking
Familiarity with live streaming solutions
Proven experience in video editing, graphic design, and animation
Understanding of regulatory requirements for broadcast, such as FCC rules
Excellent problem-solving skills
Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Broadcast technicians play an integral role in radio, television and other media production. Their technical expertise and specialized skills are essential to ensure that audio and visual content is of the highest quality. One of the most important skills a broadcast technician must possess is troubleshooting.

Having the ability to quickly identify, diagnose and solve technical problems is vital to ensure that broadcasts remain uninterrupted and content is delivered on time. broadcast technicians must have a strong understanding of the different audio and video equipment used in production, as well as the associated software. They must be able to operate these tools efficiently, as well as provide technical support and maintenance.

Finally, being organized and detail-oriented is essential, as broadcast technicians must be able to keep track of all components used in production and ensure that they are working properly. By possessing these skills, broadcast technicians can guarantee that the content they produce is of the highest quality and meets all required standards.

Broadcast Operator, Online Broadcast Technician, and Digital Broadcasting Support Technician are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in setting up and troubleshooting broadcast audio and video equipment?
How familiar are you with technical specifications for broadcast equipment?
Are you comfortable managing a large inventory of broadcast equipment?
Describe a project you completed that required creative problem-solving.
What steps do you take to ensure that all audio and video connections are properly established?
How do you stay current with the latest advancements in broadcast equipment and technology?
How comfortable are you working with broadcast software such as Adobe Audition and Adobe Premiere?
How would you respond to a situation where a piece of broadcast equipment malfunctioned during a live broadcast?
How do you prioritize tasks and manage your time when faced with multiple deadlines?
What strategies do you use to ensure that all broadcast signals are in compliance with industry standards?

Common Tools in Industry

Wireless Microphone System. Used to capture audio for broadcast and video production. (eg: Sennheiser G3 Wireless Microphone System)
Tripod. Supports camera equipment for stability and precision control during broadcast production. (eg: Manfrotto 055XPROB Tripod)
Video Switcher. Used to switch between multiple video sources in a broadcast production. (eg: Blackmagic ATEM Television Studio HD)
Video Monitors. Used to view recordings or live feeds during production. (eg: Marshall V-LCD70XHB-3G 7 HD/SD Monitor)
Audio Mixer. Used to mix audio levels and control input sources in a broadcast production. (eg: Yamaha MG10XU 10-Channel Mixer)
Lighting Equipment. Used to control light intensity and color in a broadcast production. (eg: Dracast LED500 Pro Bi-Color LED Panel)
Video Camera. Captures footage during broadcast production. (eg: Sony PXW-Z90 4K XDCAM Camcorder)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE)
Radio and Television Digital News Association (RTDNA)
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)
National Association of Radio and Television Broadcasters (NARTB)
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)
Audio Engineering Society (AES)
International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers (IABM)
Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE)
International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM)
International Telecommunications Union (ITU)

We also have Lead Audio Visual Technician - Broadcast, Assistant Broadcast Journalist, and Broadcast Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Signal. A waveform that represents information, typically used in broadcasting.
Frequency. The number of oscillations per second of a wave, measured in hertz.
RF (Radio Frequency). The range of frequencies used for radio communication.
Antenna. A device used to transmit and receive electromagnetic signals.
Modulation. The process of changing the characteristics of a signal to transmit information.
Transmission. The process of sending a signal from one place to another.
Amplifier. A device used to increase the amplitude of an electrical signal.
Mixer. A device used to combine two or more signals.
Equalizer. A device used to alter the frequency response of an audio signal.
Patch Panel. A device used to connect multiple audio signals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical job description of a Broadcast Technician?

The job of a Broadcast Technician typically involves setting up and operating audio, video, and other electronic media equipment to transmit radio and television programs, films, live events, and other audio/visual content. They may also be responsible for maintain, troubleshoot, and repair equipment, and ensure that broadcasts meet technical standards.

What education and experience is required for Broadcast Technicians?

Generally, a post-secondary education in broadcast technology or a related field is required for Broadcast Technicians. Additionally, experience with a variety of broadcast equipment, such as cameras, recording devices, and editing systems, is necessary.

What type of environment do Broadcast Technicians usually work in?

Broadcast Technicians typically work in studios or broadcast control rooms, as well as on-location at various events. They may also work outdoors to cover live events or in remote locations.

What are some of the key skills required to be successful as a Broadcast Technician?

Key skills for Broadcast Technicians include strong technical knowledge and experience with broadcast equipment; strong problem-solving skills; attention to detail; and the ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.

What are some of the dangers associated with Broadcast Technician work?

Some potential dangers associated with Broadcast Technician work include working with potentially hazardous materials such as electrical equipment, working at heights or in confined spaces, and working in extreme weather conditions.