Broadcast Technicians

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.

O*NET reports this occupation under titles such as: Audio Engineer; Board Operator; Broadcast Engineer; Broadcast Maintenance Engineer; Broadcast Operations Engineer; Broadcast Operations Technician (Broadcast Ops Tech); Broadcast Systems Support Engineer; Control Operator; Production Engineer; Radio Technician (Radio Tech)

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.
• Monitor and log transmitter readings.
• Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
• Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
• Install broadcast equipment, troubleshoot equipment problems, and perform maintenance or minor repairs, using hand tools.
• Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
• Record sound onto tape or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
• Substitute programs in cases where signals fail.
• Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
• Design and modify equipment to employer specifications.

Knowledge

• Computers and Electronics
• Telecommunications
• Communications and Media
• Engineering and Technology
• English Language
• Education and Training
• Administration and Management
• Public Safety and Security
• Law and Government
• Design
• Mathematics

Skills

• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Writing
• Active Learning
• Speaking

Abilities

• Near Vision
• Oral Comprehension
• Problem Sensitivity
• Written Comprehension
• Oral Expression
• Deductive Reasoning
• Information Ordering
• Visual Color Discrimination
• Inductive Reasoning
• Flexibility of Closure
• Hearing Sensitivity
• Written Expression
• Fluency of Ideas
• Selective Attention
• Originality
• Category Flexibility
• Perceptual Speed
• Visualization
• Arm-Hand Steadiness
• Manual Dexterity
• Finger Dexterity
• Control Precision
• Auditory Attention
• Speech Recognition
• Speech Clarity