Home

Broadcast engineer

Do you want to become a Broadcast engineer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

Broadcasting engineers install, maintain and repair the equipment used in the production and transmission of radio and television programmes. They either work in manufacture and repair, or are more closely involved in the broadcasting process.

A broadcasting engineer may:

• design and set up audio and video circuits
• install, test and maintain technical facilities in studios for transmission and editing
• maintain equipment for broadcast and satellite transmission
• maintain equipment for video and film production
• set up and operate links for outside broadcasts.

Broadcasting engineers normally work 37 hours a week, although actual working hours can be longer and more irregular. Location work and outside broadcasts may involve working away from home on a regular basis. Some jobs involve working abroad.

Salaries range from around £14,000 for a newly-qualified engineer, to £40,000 or more for a senior engineer.

A broadcasting engineer should:

• have strong communication skills and the ability to work as part of a team
• be flexible and prepared to work long or unsocial hours
• maintain a knowledge of both analogue and digital systems
• be able to write clear and precise technical reports
• be familiar with a variety of computer databases and programs
• have an interest in the content of programmes being transmitted.

Almost 3,000 engineers work for broadcasting, cable and satellite companies. Many also work in local radio across the UK.

Most broadcasting engineers are taken on as trainees. To gain a place as a trainee, a BTEC higher national certificate or diploma (HNC/HND), or a related degree in an electrical, electronic or engineering subject is needed. Apprenticeship schemes are operated by the larger employers.

Most training is on the job. Entrants may be able to study part time for NVQs/SVQs, or specialise in a particular system or technology.

Opportunities exist for adults with relevant experience in electronics.

Promotion is to more senior jobs within the field. There is a wide range of opportunities for those who wish to transfer to a related area of work.

More Useful Resources - Broadcast engineer:

Do you know of a useful and relevant website that would be helpful to our users? Tell us about it by emailing