Audio Visual Technician
Job Description:Audio visual technicians install and run screens, sound and lighting equipment at events and performances.
Job Category:What you will do:
As an audio visual technician you could:
- set up and test equipment
- carry out safety checks and deal with faults
- operate equipment during events
- check and repair equipment
- train other people to use equipment
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of audio-visual operating systems, hardware and software
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- the ability to work on your own (drive)
- the ability to work well with your hands
- physical skills like movement, coordination and dexterity
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptability skills)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
Entry Requirements:
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
College
There is no set entry route to become an audio visual technician.
In the UK, for example, helpful courses include: Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology or Level in Media, Broadcast and Production. These courses will teach you some of the skills you’ll need in an audio visual technician role.
Once you’ve finished the course, you could apply for a trainee job at a theatre, college or events company. Some employers might want you to have experience helping at a live event.
Apprenticeship
You could become an audio visual technician by doing a:
- Creative Venue Technician Advanced Apprenticeship
- Live Event Technician Advanced Apprenticeship
- Rigger Advanced Apprenticeship
- Audiovisual Technician Higher Apprenticeship
If you’d like to install cinema, lighting or security systems in homes, you could do the Smart Home Technician Advanced Apprenticeship.
Work
You could start as an assistant technician and work your way up.
You might find it useful to have experience and qualifications in broadcasting, sound technology or electronics.
Volunteering
You could volunteer with a charity, college or theatre group. This could help you get experience of setting up and running audio visual technology and software.
Career tips
When applying for jobs, you’ll find it useful if you have experience of setting up and using audio, visual and computer technology.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 39-41 hours of work. You could be required to work evenings/weekends/bank holidays attending events or appointments.
You could work at a conference centre, in a theatre, at a recording studio, at a college or at a client’s home. Your working environment may be physically demanding.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could:
- manage an audio visual department
- specialise in lighting or sound design
- become an events manager
- move into equipment and services sales
- become self employed and install equipment in homes