Broadcast Engineer

Overview

Who is Broadcast Engineer?

A broadcast engineer is a professional who heads a team of technicians to ensure the quality as well as the production of broadcasts working from behind the scenes of television, radio and new media show or event. Broadcast engineering is primarily associated with setting up, supervising, maintaining, repairing and even replacing all the audio, video, sound and technical equipment in radio, studio and television broadcasts. Broadcasting can be related to other branches of engineering such as electrical, electronics, communication, radio-physics, and to a certain extent even computer engineering and IT.

These engineers may be required to work long hours, work until the job is done so extra hours are inevitable. The work environment for a broadcast engineer typically ranges from a comfortable office to extreme conditions in foreign locations depending on the job at hand. This line of work is often claimed to be high-pressured. A broadcast engineer may work with production, post-production facilities and studios, broadcast engineering consultants and so on. The role of a broadcast engineer provides job satisfaction and great growth opportunities for truly keen aspirants. It is also recommended to opt for specialization after a little bit of experience to further the chances of growth and better opportunities. Broadcast engineers can specialize in print journalism, TV broadcasts, online media and so on. 

Typical day at work

What does Broadcast Engineer do?

Broadcast engineers play an integral role in the radio and television industries, where they're responsible for keeping scheduled broadcasts running, setting up live broadcasts in the field or studio, maintaining and updating broadcasting hardware and software, and addressing broadcasting problems as they arise. They ensure that projects are broadcast on schedule and to the highest caliber.

The particular role of a broadcast engineer is multifaceted but typically depends on the area of specialization. Generally,  it comprises of the following tasks:

• Conduct checks and rechecks of the equipment to ensure it is functional
• Repair, and if need be, replace old and outdated equipment
• Ensure that the programs are broadcasted on time and maintain the highest level of quality
• Set up the operating equipment and transmission links during outside broadcasts
• Interpret and implement the instructions from producers, directors and other colleagues
• Maintain specialist equipment for the broadcast and satellite transmission and interactive media
• Design, install and test new equipment
• Recommend enhancements

Abilities & aptitude needed

What are the skills, abilities & aptitude needed to become Broadcast Engineer?

We calculated that 9% of Broadcast Engineers are skilled in Technical Support, Troubleshooting, and RF. They are also known for soft skills such as communication, computer, and problem-solving abilities. Technical support Assist broadcast facilities with the repair, maintenance, installation, and modification of technical broadcasting equipment. Troubleshoot Managed Equipment for LIVE Sports Broadcast Mixed Live Audio for Time Warner Cable SN Productions Troubleshoot on the fly RF Maintained Wireless Microphones, RF over Fiber Antenna Infrastructure, and Frequency Coordination for Live Show and Corporate Usage Audio equipment Aided in the installation and operation of camera, lighting, and audio equipment.

IP Network infrastructure and AV over IP are areas of expertise. Live broadcasts. Live broadcasts and sporting events that have been engineered Assist in the production of multi-camera remote television productions (live TV). Communication skills are the most important for a Broadcast Engineer in this position. Technicians must communicate with supervisors and coworkers to ensure that clients' needs are met and that equipment is properly set up before broadcasts, live performances, and presentations. Broadcast Engineers can use communication skills to "Specialized tasks such as working on equipment requiring Federal Communications Commission (FCC) licencing.

Another frequently encountered skill for being able to perform Broadcast Engineer duties is: Computer abilities. Technicians use computer systems to programme equipment and edit audio and video recordings. Maintain routers, computers, switchers, encoders, servers, tape machines, satellite receivers, transmitters, and so on. Broadcast Engineers must also be capable of problem solving. Technicians must recognise equipment problems and propose potential solutions. Resolve functionality issues professional video equipment and perform routine maintenance to ensure consistent, reliable transmission quality.

Courses

Which course I can pursue?