Job profile: Broadcasting engineer

A broadcast engineer installs, maintains, modifies, operates and repairs broadcast equipment and systems.

What are the typical progression routes?

Job description - Broadcasting Engineer

Broadcast engineers work in the latest multimedia technology, in a variety of locations and situations for television and radio.They are responsible for the equipment and systems that ensure that radio and television transmissions reach their intended audience at the right time and the highest possible technical quality. Those working in manufacturing are involved in the design of circuits, hardware and software, and broadcast systems. Those working in broadcast, cable, and satellite companies set up, maintain, operate and update technical facilities, including studios, editing, and transmission systems.They work in a variety of locations and situations - everything from news operations, studio productions, outside broadcasts, and web casts in the UK.
 
Activities
  • Designing and setting up audio and video circuits
  • Utilising knowledge of analogue and digital systems
  • Installing, testing and maintaining technical facilities
  • Analysing and rectifying technical faults
  • Investigating new techniques and equipment
 
Competencies
  • Awareness of broadcast critical delivery
  • Computer and IT skills
  • Logical reasoning, creative thinking and problem solving abilities
  • Communication and presentation skills and the ability to work as part of a team
  • Technical and operational knowledge of a variety of systems
 
What are the routes in?
Most entrants to the industry will already be qualified engineers, with some sort of engineering degree or equivalent.To gain a place as a trainee, a BTEC HNC, HND or degree in related subjects such as electrical, electronic or broadcast engineering is needed. The normal entry requirements for a degree are a minimum of five GCSEs (A-C) / S grades (1-3) including maths and a science subject plus two A levels/ three Highers including maths or physics. Some companies may take on trainees with a minimum of an AVCE in engineering or equivalent.Major employers, such as the BBC, offer training schemes to suitably qualified applicants who can demonstrate an interest in broadcasting. Employers also offer on-the-job technical training schemes that can eventually lead to a career in broadcast engineering.
 
Promotion is based on merit. Jobs are quite widely available as TV and radio stations are found in most areas of the UK. There are also a number of jobs with independent production companies.In contrast to other sectors, the majority of broadcast engineers are employed on permanent or long-term contracts.Regional TV and radio stations will often use freelancers and recruitment for short-term projects. Within some of these companies it may also be possible to progress towards other roles, e.g. management.
 
What is the work like?
Broadcast engineers work in enclosed studios to on location sites.Shift work, including weekends, evenings and nights are normal in this line of work. Contracts may be renewable, fixed term or freelance.Location work and outside broadcasts involve working away from home on a regular basis or for fairly long periods and can also include working abroad. Occasionally you may be required to work on dangerous assignments, e.g. in war zones.