Broadcast Technician

Tasks & duties

Broadcast technicians may do some or all of the following:

• check that all the broadcasting equipment is in safe working order
• advise clients on the best broadcasting equipment to use
• repair faulty broadcasting equipment
• order parts and equipment, and check and install them on arrival
• train clients to use the broadcasting equipment
• provide links between the studio and transmitters and satellites
• write reports on finished work
• keep up with the latest technical developments and changes
• keep in contact with their clients
• set up and pack down broadcasting testing equipment
• design and construct broadcasting equipment
• install broadcasting studios and transmitters

Skills & knowledge

Broadcast technicians need to have:

• knowledge of radio or television broadcasting equipment, including how to maintain and repair this equipment
• knowledge of broadcasting signals
• knowledge of electronics and basic mechanics
• computer skills
• communication skills
• analytical and problem-solving skills

Entry requirements

To become a broadcast technician you need to have a National Diploma in Engineering (replacing the NZ Certificate in Engineering), majoring in electronics, computer engineering or telecommunications, or a National Certificate in Electronics Technology or Telecommunications.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is preferred and useful subjects include maths, English, physics and chemistry.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Broadcast technicians may attend training courses.

Registration

Broadcast technicians need to be registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board.

Useful experience

Useful experience includes working for a radio or television station, or any work with electronics.

Related courses

Audio Visual Studies
Communications Equipment Installation and Maintenance
Communications Technologies
Journalism, Communication and Media Studies

For more information, please refer to Career Services.