# Tasks & work activities — broadcast technician

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 27-4012.00 (Broadcast Technicians).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Monitor and log transmitter readings.
- **[Core]** Play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems.
- **[Core]** Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
- **[Core]** Install broadcast equipment, troubleshoot equipment problems, and perform maintenance or minor repairs, using hand tools.
- **[Core]** Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
- **[Core]** Control audio equipment to regulate volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
- **[Core]** Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
- **[Core]** Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
- **[Core]** Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
- **[Core]** Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
- **[Core]** Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
- **[Core]** Substitute programs in cases where signals fail.
- **[Core]** Design and modify equipment to employer specifications.
- **[Supplemental]** Make commercial dubs.
- **[Supplemental]** Develop employee work schedules.
- **[Supplemental]** Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
- **[Supplemental]** Record sound onto tape or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
- **[Supplemental]** Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
- **[Supplemental]** Organize recording sessions and prepare areas, such as radio booths and television stations, for recording.
- **[Supplemental]** Instruct trainees in use of television production equipment, filming of events, and copying and editing graphics or sound onto videotape.
- **[Supplemental]** Schedule programming or read television programming logs to determine which programs are to be recorded or aired.
- **[Supplemental]** Edit broadcast material electronically, using computers.
- **[Supplemental]** Give technical directions to other personnel during filming.
- **[Supplemental]** Set up and operate portable field transmission equipment outside the studio.
- **[Supplemental]** Determine the number, type, and approximate location of microphones needed for best sound recording or transmission quality, and position them appropriately.
- **[Supplemental]** Prepare reports outlining past and future programs, including content.
- **[Supplemental]** Discuss production requirements with clients.

## Detailed work activities

- Confer with clients to determine needs.
- Coordinate activities of production personnel.
- Design electrical equipment or systems.
- Design tools, fixtures, or other devices for production equipment.
- Determine technical requirements of productions or projects.
- Direct productions or performances.
- Edit audio or video recordings.
- Maintain logs of production activities.
- Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
- Monitor broadcasting operations to ensure proper functioning.
- Notify others of equipment problems.
- Operate audio recording equipment.
- Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment.
- Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video.
- Read materials to determine needed actions.
- Schedule operational activities.
- Train others on work processes.
