Broadcast Technicians

Also called : Audio Engineer, Board Operator, Broadcast Engineer, Broadcast Maintenance Engineer, Broadcast Operations Engineer, Broadcast Technician, Control Operator, Production Engineer

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, one 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.

Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.

Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.

KNOWLEDGE

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.

Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.

Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

SKILLS

Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

Active Listening
Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Monitoring
Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.

Complex Problem Solving
Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

ABILITIES

Near Vision
The ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer).

Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.

Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.

Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.

Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.

PERSONALITY

People interested in this work, will do well at jobs that need;

Attention to Detail
Job requires being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.

Dependability
Job requires being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.

Cooperation
Job requires being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.

Adaptability/Flexibility
Job requires being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.

Stress Tolerance
Job requires accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.

Integrity
Job requires being honest and ethical.

Analytical Thinking
Job requires analyzing information and using logic to address work-related issues and problems.

Self-Control
Job requires maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.

Persistence
Job requires persistence in the face of obstacles.

Initiative
Job requires a willingness to take on responsibilities and challenges.

Related Occupations

Librarians and Media Collections Specialists

Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers

Audio and Video Technicians

TECHNOLOGY

Computer aided design CAD software

Desktop publishing software

Electronic mail software

Graphics or photo imaging software

Office suite software

Operating system software

Presentation software

Spreadsheet software

Video creation and editing software

Word processing software

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

Preparation
Medium Preparation Needed
Education
Training in vocational schools or an Associate deg
Experience
Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations.
Jobtraining
Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers.