Broadcast Technicians

realistic interests computer software monitor equipment program television program broadcasting equipment technical skills

Board Operator, Broadcast Engineer, Broadcast Technician, Control Operator

What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
  • Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
  • Monitor and log transmitter readings.
  • Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology

  • computers and electronics
  • product and service development

Communications

  • telecommunications
  • multimedia

Arts and Humanities

  • English language

Skills

Basic Skills

  • thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions

Problem Solving

  • noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Abilities

Verbal

  • listen and understand what people say
  • read and understand what is written

Ideas and Logic

  • notice when problems happen
  • order or arrange things

Hand and Finger Use

  • hold or move items with your hands
  • keep your arm or hand steady

Personality

People interested in this work like activities that include data, detail, and regular routines.

They do well at jobs that need:

  • Attention to Detail
  • Dependability
  • Cooperation
  • Adaptability/Flexibility
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Integrity

Technology

You might use software like this on the job:

Video creation and editing software

  • Adobe After Effects Hot Technology
  • Apple Final Cut Pro

Presentation software

  • Microsoft PowerPoint Hot Technology In Demand

Operating system software

  • Linux Hot Technology
  • UNIX Hot Technology

Education

Education: (rated 3 of 5)
associate's degree or
some college
usually needed

Get started on your career:

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Job Outlook

Below Average
New job opportunities are less likely in the future.
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See more details at O*NET OnLine about broadcast technicians.