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

Mar 5, 2023 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The role of a Senior Broadcast Technician is to ensure that all technical aspects of television and radio broadcasts run smoothly. This includes maintaining and installing broadcasting equipment, setting up cameras, audio equipment, and other production elements. As a result, Senior Broadcast Technicians are often responsible for troubleshooting any technical issues that may arise during live broadcasts. Their expertise in operating and maintaining broadcast equipment also ensures that the broadcasts are of the highest quality and are delivered to the audience in a reliable and timely manner.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or GED. Most employers require a high school diploma or its equivalent for entry-level broadcast technician positions.
Pursue an associate or bachelors degree in broadcasting or a related field. Most employers prefer candidates with a degree in broadcasting, communications, electronics, computer science, engineering, or a related field.
Gain experience as a broadcast technician. It is important to get hands-on experience in the field to increase chances of landing a senior broadcast technician position.
Advance your career by becoming certified as a Senior Broadcast Technician by the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE). This certification is recognized as the standard of excellence in broadcast engineering.
Seek additional certifications in specialized areas of broadcast technology, such as digital audio, digital video, and computer networking.
Remain current with industry trends and technology advancements by staying active in professional organizations and taking continuing education classes.

In order to stay updated and capable as a Senior Broadcast Technician, it is important to ensure that you stay abreast of the latest industry trends and technologies. This can be done by regularly attending workshops and conferences, reading industry publications, and connecting with other professionals in the same field. Doing so not only keeps you informed of the newest developments, but also allows you to network and make valuable connections.

Having access to the latest information and resources helps you make smarter decisions, which in turn helps you become a more effective technician. staying up-to-date on the latest tools and technologies available can help you stay ahead of the competition and stay competitive in the industry.

You may want to check Video Production Manager - Broadcast, Broadcast Technician, and Mobile Broadcast Engineer for alternative.

Job Description

Install, maintain and repair broadcast equipment, including transmitters, consoles, antenna systems, satellite systems, digital audio and video systems, and computer systems.
Troubleshoot complex technical problems and malfunctions of broadcast equipment.
Monitor and adjust broadcast signals in order to ensure optimum performance.
Perform regular maintenance inspections and repairs of broadcast equipment.
Train new technicians on use of broadcast equipment, safety procedures and other related topics.
Keep accurate records of maintenance activities and broadcast system performance.
Develop and implement new broadcast system designs and modifications.
Provide technical support to other broadcast departments, including production staff and engineering staff.
Monitor FCC regulations and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Work with other technical staff to develop new broadcast services or products.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Extensive knowledge of television broadcast equipment and systems
Ability to maintain, troubleshoot and repair broadcast equipment
Ability to operate various types of broadcast equipment
Knowledge of digital audio and video systems
Ability to work with computer-based video editing systems
Ability to install and configure broadcast systems
Excellent communication and customer service skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Ability to follow technical instructions accurately
Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
Excellent organizational, problem-solving and time management skills
Knowledge of safety standards and procedures in a broadcast setting

Having a strong technical background is essential for a successful Broadcast Technician. This includes having knowledge of broadcast hardware and software, such as video switchers, audio mixers, cameras, and video editing software. experience with networking, including IP routing and troubleshooting, is also an important skill to have.

With these abilities, Broadcast Technicians are able to set up and maintain broadcast systems, which is the foundation for any successful broadcast. Furthermore, being able to troubleshoot any technical issues quickly and efficiently is an invaluable asset for a Broadcast Technician. If a problem arises during a live broadcast, the technician must be able to identify and resolve the issue in a timely manner.

Being able to work well under pressure is also a critical skill for Broadcast Technicians. They must be able to multitask effectively and work collaboratively with their colleagues in order to ensure all broadcast requirements are met. With these essential skills, a Broadcast Technician can ensure smooth and successful broadcasts.

Broadcast Technical Manager, Broadcast News Anchor, and Television Broadcast Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience have you had in the broadcast industry?
Are you familiar with the latest broadcast technologies?
What techniques do you use to troubleshoot technical problems?
Describe a difficult problem you faced in your previous broadcast technician position and how you solved it.
How do you keep up with industry trends and new technologies?
What challenges have you faced as a broadcast technician?
How do you handle customer complaints or feedback?
Describe your experience in setting up and maintaining broadcast equipment.
How would you train and mentor new broadcast technicians?
What strategies do you use to ensure that broadcasts run smoothly?

Common Tools in Industry

Broadcast Automation Software. Software used to automatically play pre-scheduled audio and video content, such as music, commercials, and news broadcasts. (eg: Myriad 5)
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Software used for recording, editing, mixing, and producing audio content. (eg: Pro Tools)
Non-Linear Editing System (NLE). Software used for editing video and film projects. (eg: Adobe Premiere Pro)
Waveform Monitors. A type of monitor used for checking the signal levels and waveform of audio and video signals. (eg: Tektronix WFM-601)
Audio Mixers. Hardware used to adjust the relative volume, EQ, and other audio parameters of multiple audio sources. (eg: Allen & Heath ZED-24)
Routing Switchers. A type of hardware used to route or switch multiple signals between different sources or destinations. (eg: Blackmagic Design ATEM Television Studio HD)
Patch Bays. Hardware used to connect signal sources or destinations with patch cables. (eg: Whirlwind PB-48)
Signal Analyzers. A type of hardware used to measure signal strength, distortion, frequency response, and other parameters. (eg: Rohde & Schwarz FSH4)
Intercom Systems. A type of hardware used for communication between personnel in a studio or broadcast facility. (eg: Riedel Artist)

Professional Organizations to Know

Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE)
Audio Engineering Society (AES)
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)
Professional Video Producers Association (PVPA)
Radio and Television Business Report (RTBR)
International Association of Broadcast Manufacturers (IABM)
Radio and Television News Directors Association (RTNDA)
Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE)
National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS)
Association of Public Radio Engineers (APRE)

We also have Lead Audio Visual Technician - Broadcast, Broadcast Network Operations Technician, and Broadcast Control Room Engineer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Audio Engineering. The practice of manipulating and mixing sound waves to create a desired audio effect.
Broadcast Engineering. The process of designing, setting up and maintaining radio, television and other broadcast systems.
Broadcast Signal Monitoring. The process of regularly checking broadcast signals for quality and stability.
Video Production. The practice of capturing, recording, editing and delivering video content.
Audio Post Production. The process of enhancing the audio content of a video by adding sound effects, music, and dialogue.
Mixing Console. An electronic device used to mix multiple audio signals together.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). Software used to record, edit, mix and master digital audio.
Networked Audio System. A system that allows multiple audio devices to be connected together to share audio content.
RF Transmission. The process of sending radio signals over the airwaves.
Audio Editing. The process of manipulating audio content to create a desired effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Senior Broadcast Technician?

A Senior Broadcast Technician is an experienced professional responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting and repairing broadcast equipment used in the production of television and radio shows.

What skills are necessary for a Senior Broadcast Technician?

A Senior Broadcast Technician must have strong technical and problem-solving skills, along with knowledge of broadcast equipment and systems, audio and video production techniques, and post-production workflows.

What responsibilities does a Senior Broadcast Technician have?

A Senior Broadcast Technician is responsible for ensuring broadcast systems are functioning properly, performing preventative maintenance, diagnosing and repairing technical problems, and providing training and guidance to other broadcast technicians.

What qualifications are required for a Senior Broadcast Technician?

Typically, a Senior Broadcast Technician will need at least two years of experience in the field, along with a degree in a related field such as broadcasting or audio engineering.