Broadcast Engineer

Broadcast Engineer Job DescriptionWorking primarily in television and radio, Broadcast Engineers are responsible for theinstallation, maintenance and operation of all broadcast-related equipment. They alsoprovide technical support in the arenas of film, concerts and music recording, ensuring thequality production and transmission of both audio and video.Broadcast Engineer Duties and ResponsibilitiesIn order to provide technical support for all broadcast equipment, a Broadcast Engineerperforms many different tasks. We analyzed job listings for Broadcast Engineers in order toidentify these core duties and responsibilities.Install Broadcast EquipmentThe Broadcast Engineer is responsible for receiving and installing all new audio and visualequipment. They must be capable of reading and understanding schematics and technicalmanuals in order to effectively follow installation instructions.Maintain Broadcast EquipmentThe Broadcast Engineer is responsible for performing regular maintenance on all broadcastequipment as well as preventative maintenance. This includes performing regular softwareand hardware updates. Broadcast Engineers must be extremely knowledgeable regarding allbroadcast technology in order to effectively care for equipment and ensure that it does notfail.Troubleshoot ProblemsOften working within time-sensitive environments or for live broadcasts, the BroadcastEngineer must be able to quickly troubleshoot and diagnose video and audio issues. Thisincludes performing extensive testing before a recording or transmission, as well as solvingany problems that arise once a broadcast has begun. They may also have to communicatewith third parties, such as the equipment vendors, in order to troubleshoot and resolvetechnical issues.Repair Broadcast EquipmentOnce a problem is diagnosed, the Broadcast Engineer, sometimes in conjunction with otherteam members, is responsible for finding a solution and completing repairs to the equipmentuntil it is functioning well again. Often these repairs must be completed in a timely manner.The Broadcast Engineer is also responsible for identifying when repairs are not possible andnew equipment must be ordered.Recommend EnhancementsIn order to stay updated with changing technologies and maintain excellent broadcastquality, the Broadcast Engineer must come up with solutions for continual broadcastimprovement. This includes providing the company or studio with recommendations forequipment updates, enhancements and modifications, and then performing them. BroadcastEngineers also make suggestions for new technology and equipment when necessary.Broadcast Engineer SkillsBroadcast Engineers must be able to solve complex problems in a timely manner. Oftenworking on strict deadlines or within live production environments, Broadcast Engineersmust be calm under pressure, have excellent time management skills and the ability to recallextensive technical knowledge quickly. They must be detail-oriented in order to identify andprevent potential technical issues. They must be able to prioritize and shift work prioritiesquickly, maintaining flexibility and quick response time.Core skills: Based on job listings we looked at, employers want Broadcast Engineers withthese core skills. If you want to work as a Broadcast Engineer, focus on the following.Having broadcast or IT experienceObtaining some technical educationBecoming proficient in Windows, Apple, and Linux operating systemsPossessing computer network or network security knowledge and trainingExhibiting experience in maintaining and operating transmission equipmentHaving knowledge of audio and video software and applicationsDemonstrating an ability to interface with clients and other departmentsAdvanced skills: While most employers did not require the following skills, multiple joblistings included them as preferred. Add these to your Broadcast Engineer toolbox andbroaden your career options.