Broadcast engineers ensure that programmes are transmitted across television and radio networks at the right time and to the highest technical quality. They can work on a wide range of equipment and systems, anywhere from studios, outside broadcasts (OBs) and post-production operations, to interactive TV and webcasts.

The work of broadcast engineers is split into two main areas:

Manufacture and repair - involves designing and setting up audio and video circuits, multimedia hardware and software, and broadcast technology systems. Engineers working in this field need an understanding of analogue and digital systems as broadcasting moves towards the digital era.

Broadcasting - covers the installation, operation and maintenance of technical facilities including transmission, editing and studios. They also set up and audio and visual links between different units, including OB units, and ensure links are working correctly.

Hours and Environment

As a broadcast engineer you will usually work 40 hours a week. Shift work is common, including weekends, evenings and nights. You may need to work extra hours at short notice, particularly for news programmes.

The environment could vary from warm, enclosed studios to extreme conditions on location. Location work can include working abroad, sometimes in dangerous situations like war zones.

Skills and Interests

To be a broadcast engineer, you need:

• good technical skills and knowledge of electrical and electronic equipment
• awareness of health and safety in the workplace
• problem solving skills
• good communication and teamworking skills
• flexibility and willingness to work long or unsocial hours when necessary
• stamina and fitness.

Entry

You will usually be taken on as a broadcast engineer through a technical training scheme run by a broadcasting company. To gain a place on a scheme, you will usually need a HNC, HND or degree in electrical, electronic or broadcasting engineering, or a similar subject.

To get onto a relevant degree course you will usually need at least five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3), plus two A levels/three Highers or equivalent qualifications, usually including maths, physics or engineering. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

Some companies may take on trainees with A levels or equivalent.

If already working within broadcasting, in a job such as runner, you may be able to move into broadcasting engineering through in-house training schemes.

Training

Training schemes are available aimed at new entrants to the radio and television companies on a national and regional level. These are usually run by the major broadcasters. The schemes involve technical training combined with work placements with film and television companies. Some companies offer students training placements during vacation or prior to going to university. Competition for places is strong.

Contact Skillset Careers for advice on finding training schemes - see Further Information.

People already working as broadcast engineers are often required to undertake further training on the use of new equipment. This is often organised by employers. Skillset also offers information on further training opportunities through its media course search database - see the Skillset website for more details.

The British Kinematograph Sound and Television Society (BKSTS) offer training for members, and also publishes careers information on its website. Their membership schemes range from student to professional level.

Apprenticeships may be available for those under the age of 24. In England these are currently Apprenticeships (level 2) and Advanced Apprenticeships (level 3). To find out more about these, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk

Apprenticeships may be different in other areas. For further information see Scotland , Wales and Northern Ireland.

Opportunities

Competition for broadcasting jobs is fierce. Many broadcast companies are based in London and the south east of England, although there are also opportunities with regional TV and radio stations.

With experience, you may be able to progress into management roles.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Trainees might earn between £14,000 and £18,000 a year.
Experienced broadcast engineers earn between £30,000 and £40,000 a year.

Further information

Moving Image Society
Pinewood Studios
Iver Heath
Bucks
SL0 0NH 14 Upton Road
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282 167 Tel: 08080 300 900 for England, Wales and Northern Ireland
Tel: 0808 100 8094 for Scotland Prospect House
80-110 New Oxford Street
London
WC1A 1HB