Entertainment & Media

Broadcast Technician

SOC 27-4011.00 · ESCO 3521 · OSCA 391232

Role snapshot

Overview

Operates and maintains the electronic equipment that transmits radio and television signals, from studio mixing boards to satellite uplinks. Broadcast technicians are essential for monitoring signal quality, troubleshooting outages, and ensuring broadcasts stay on air without interruption, supporting both live and recorded programming.

Ensures the continuous and high-quality delivery of broadcast content to audiences, making sure news, entertainment, and information reach viewers and listeners without technical hitches.

On the job

Set up, operate, and maintain broadcasting equipment for live and recorded productions
Monitor signal quality and transmission parameters using specialized test equipment
Troubleshoot and repair technical problems with audio, video, and transmission systems
Install and configure new broadcast equipment and software
Perform routine preventative maintenance on studio and transmission gear

Tools & technology

Audio mixing consolesVideo switchersSignal generatorsSpectrum analyzersNetwork monitoring software

Average salary

$65K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$45K Bottom 10%

$90K Top 10%

Job outlook

Stable

Demand is steady. This is an established role with consistent hiring across sectors.

Education & training

Typically requires an associate's degree or a certificate in broadcast technology, electronics, or a related field. Some roles may prefer a bachelor's degree.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Senior Broadcast Technician

Broadcast Engineer

Operations Manager (Broadcast)

CURRENT ROLE

Broadcast Technician

Entertainment & Media

Junior Broadcast Technician

Audio Visual Technician

Electronics Technician

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

conventional · CRI

People who enjoy working with complex machinery, meticulously following technical procedures, and diagnosing problems to keep systems running smoothly often thrive as Broadcast Technicians.

Personality characteristics

Meticulous

Pays close attention to technical details and procedures to ensure broadcast quality and prevent errors.

Calm under pressure

Remains composed and effective when troubleshooting critical issues during live broadcasts or outages.

Inquisitive

Enjoys diagnosing complex technical problems and understanding how electronic systems work.

Practical

Prefers hands-on work with equipment and tangible solutions to technical challenges.

Reliable

Consistently ensures equipment is operational and broadcasts run without interruption, often adhering to strict schedules.

Best for

Individuals who enjoy working with electronic systems and ensuring their flawless operation
Those who thrive on diagnosing and solving technical puzzles under tight deadlines
People who prefer a structured environment focused on precision and reliability

Watch out for

Can involve irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially for live events
Work environment can be high-pressure during technical failures or live broadcasts