Do you want to be a...

Broadcasting Technician

Also known as Electrotechnology Communications Technician. Broadcasting technicians install, start up, maintain and repair equipment used for the transmission and reception of television and radio broadcast signals. This includes transmitters, microphones, mixing desks, tape recorders, CD players, computers, television cameras and telecine equipment. They may also work on microwave and satellite equipment used for the transmission and reception of voice, data and images.

Broadcasting technicians usually specialise in either TV or radio. TV broadcasting technicians work on a wider range of equipment than those specialising in radio.

They work mainly indoors in TV, radio or recording studios and emergency services communication centres, but also work outdoors on location.

There may be some heavy lifting when moving equipment to a workshop, and they may be required to work at heights. Shiftwork is common.

TASKS

Broadcasting technicians may perform the following tasks:

check equipment to ensure it is operating properly (antennas, remote controls and auxiliary power units, for example)
study reports and talk to equipment operators to get details of problems
replace faulty wiring and terminals, and re-solder connections
find and replace faulty assemblies and parts (such as capacitors, transistors, integrated circuits, printed circuit boards and transformers) using electronic test equipment
check output power, frequency and modulation using test equipment
assist with building, installing and adjusting new equipment

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

normal eyesight and colour vision
good with hands
technical ability
aptitude for mathematics and science
adaptable and willing to learn about emerging technologies
a fast and methodical approach to work

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Wireless Communications Technician - installs, maintains and repairs cellular communications equipment, radio systems and Local Area Networks (LANs). They also test, adjust, repair or replace defective equipment and components, ensuring that correct calibration and frequencies are met.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a broadcasting technician you usually have to complete an apprenticeship or traineeship in Electronics and Communications or Broadcast Technology.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

You can also become a broadcasting technician by completing a VOC qualification in electronics and communications. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Additional Information

When working at heights, industry standards require broadcasting technicians to complete a Work Safely at Heights short course provided by a Registered Training Organisation.

You may need to have an electrical licence. See the separate entry for Electronics and Communications Technician for more information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most broadcasting technicians work in radio and television broadcasting. Some broadcasting technicians are employed by pay TV/telecommunications companies or work in the movie industry. A few are self-employed. Broadcasting technicians are also employed in other industries that produce employee communications, sales and training programmes.

Some commercial radio and television stations employ and train staff who are still studying for their qualifications. There is strong competition for available jobs.