Occupation: Broadcast Technicians

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.

27-4012.00 | 27 tasks | 8 job titles
Reported Job Titles (8)
  • Audio Engineer
  • Board Operator
  • Broadcast Engineer
  • Broadcast Maintenance Engineer
  • Broadcast Operations Engineer
  • Broadcast Technician
  • Control Operator
  • Production Engineer
Core Tasks (13)
  • 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.
  • Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
  • Play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems.
  • Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
  • 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.
  • Substitute programs in cases where signals fail.
  • Control audio equipment to regulate volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
  • Design and modify equipment to employer specifications.
Supplemental Tasks (14)
  • Record sound onto tape or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
  • Schedule programming or read television programming logs to determine which programs are to be recorded or aired.
  • Edit broadcast material electronically, using computers.
  • Develop employee work schedules.
  • Instruct trainees in use of television production equipment, filming of events, and copying and editing graphics or sound onto videotape.
  • Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
  • Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
  • Make commercial dubs.
  • Determine the number, type, and approximate location of microphones needed for best sound recording or transmission quality, and position them appropriately.
  • Organize recording sessions and prepare areas, such as radio booths and television stations, for recording.
  • Set up and operate portable field transmission equipment outside the studio.
  • Give technical directions to other personnel during filming.
  • Prepare reports outlining past and future programs, including content.
  • Discuss production requirements with clients.