Broadcast Engineer
Job Description:Broadcast engineers make sure television, radio and online programmes are broadcast at the right times and are high quality.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll work on studio and outside broadcasts (OBs), post-production operations, and new media like interactive TV and webcasts.
Your duties could include:
- setting up studio equipment for transmission and editing
- designing and setting up audio and video circuits
- installing multimedia hardware, software and other digital broadcast technology systems
- setting up and operating links between studios and OB units
- editing programmes live as they’re being transmitted or recorded
- testing and servicing equipment
- finding and repairing technical faults
You’ll work as part of a team that includes producers, studio managers and presenters.
Skills:
You’ll need:
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
- knowledge of maths
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change (adaptable)
Entry Requirements:
To become a Broadcast Engineer, you’ll need a combination of specialised education, technical skills, and practical experience rather than specific qualifications. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial in preparing for a career in broadcast engineering. Here are some subjects that can be helpful:
- Mathematics: Strong math skills are essential for broadcast engineers, as they often work with complex technical systems, signal processing, and calculations related to broadcast equipment.
- Physics (Optional): Courses in physics can provide a foundational understanding of principles such as waveforms, electromagnetic fields, and the behavior of light and sound, which are relevant to broadcast technology.
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT): courses in ICT can introduce you to basic computer hardware and software concepts, which are fundamental in broadcast engineering.
- Electronics (Optional): Courses in electronics can offer insights into circuitry, electronic components, and electrical systems, which are crucial in broadcast engineering.
- Design and Technology (Optional): This subject can provide hands-on experience with design, construction, and maintenance of technical equipment, which is relevant to broadcast engineering.
- Computer Science (Optional): Familiarity with computer programming and software development can be valuable, especially for managing digital broadcast systems and automation.
Post School
You’ll usually need to start on an in-house engineering training scheme.
In the UK, schemes include the BBC’s engineering trainee scheme and engineering-sponsored degree apprenticeship.
You could have an advantage if you have paid or unpaid experience in using broadcast technology equipment from a placement with a broadcaster, by working on student film or TV productions, or community or hospital radio.
If you don’t start through a training scheme, you’ll usually need:
- experience in maintaining and repairing electronic equipment
- to be familiar with broadcast technology
- a work-related qualification in electronic or electrical engineering
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll usually work around 40 hours a week. Shift work is common, including weekends and nights.
You may need to work extra hours at short notice.
You’ll work in recording studios, studio galleries, control rooms or maintenance workshops.
You might work in all weather conditions and locations, when you’re working on OBs.
You might work away from home and overseas.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could move into management.
You could also work freelance.