Broadcast technicians
SOC Code: 27-4012Also known as:
Audio Engineer, Audio Operator, Board Operator, Broadcast Engineer, Broadcast Maintenance Engineer
Median Annual Salary
$53,920
-2.8% growth (2024-2034)
2K
Openings/Year
25K
Current Jobs
What Broadcast technicians Do
Set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to acquire, edit, and transmit audio and video for radio or television programs. Control and adjust incoming and outgoing broadcast signals to regulate sound volume, signal strength, and signal clarity. Operate satellite, microwave, or other transmitter equipment to broadcast radio or television programs.
💰 Salary
$53,920
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-2.8%
Decline
🎓 Education
Associate's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
2K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
24,800
Projected Employment (2034)
24,200
Related Careers
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians
$77,180 •
+0.6% growth
Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians
$70,760 •
+1.1% growth
Audio and video technicians
$54,830 •
+3.3% growth
Electrical and electronics repairers, commercial and industrial equipment
$71,300 •
-0.8% growth
Power distributors and dispatchers
$107,240 •
-3.2% growth
Top Skills Required
Critical Thinking
Active Listening
Monitoring
Operations Monitoring
Writing
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
- Monitor and log transmitter readings.
- Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
- Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
- Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
- Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
- Play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems.
- Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
- Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
- Install broadcast equipment, troubleshoot equipment problems, and perform maintenance or minor repairs, using hand tools.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Associate's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Associate's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Broadcast technicians
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a broadcast technicians:
Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician
1,515 degrees awarded •
85 colleges offer this program
Communications Technology/Technician
1,043 degrees awarded •
40 colleges offer this program
Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians, Other
684 degrees awarded •
16 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Broadcast technicians
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become broadcast technicians.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do broadcast technicians make?
The median annual salary for broadcast technicians is $53,920.
What education do broadcast technicians need?
Most broadcast technicians positions require a associate's degree.
Common degree programs include Radio and Television Broadcasting Technology/Technician, Communications Technology/Technician, Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians, Other.
Is becoming broadcast technicians a good career choice?
Broadcast technicians is projected to see -2.8% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 1,800 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for broadcast technicians?
Top colleges for aspiring broadcast technicians include
Johns Hopkins University, Rowan University, Manatee Technical College, Tulsa Technology Center, Eastern Florida State College.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to broadcast technicians?
Broadcast technicians may also be known as: Audio Engineer, Audio Operator, Board Operator, Broadcast Engineer, Broadcast Maintenance Engineer, Broadcast Operations Engineer, Broadcast Operations Technician, Broadcast Technician, Color Technician, Control Engineer, Control Operator, Control Room Operator, Control Room Technician, Digital Production Assistant, Engineering Operator, Engineering Technician, Facsimile Operator, Master Control Engineer, Media Technician, Microphone Operator.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.