What does a Broadcast Technician do?

According to people in this career, the main tasks are...

TaskImportance
Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
90%
Monitor and log transmitter readings.
88%
Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
88%
Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
88%
Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programs are airing.
87%
Preview scheduled programs to ensure that signals are functioning and programs are ready for transmission.
85%
Play and record broadcast programs, using automation systems.
84%
Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
82%
Schedule programming or read television programming logs to determine which programs are to be recorded or aired.
81%
Record sound onto tape or film for radio or television, checking its quality and making adjustments where necessary.
81%
Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
80%
Install broadcast equipment, troubleshoot equipment problems, and perform maintenance or minor repairs, using hand tools.
80%
Edit broadcast material electronically, using computers.
80%
Develop employee work schedules.
79%
Substitute programs in cases where signals fail.
79%
Control audio equipment to regulate volume and sound quality during radio and television broadcasts.
79%
Design and modify equipment to employer specifications.
75%
Instruct trainees in use of television production equipment, filming of events, and copying and editing graphics or sound onto videotape.
75%
Align antennae with receiving dishes to obtain the clearest signal for transmission of broadcasts from field locations.
74%
Regulate the fidelity, brightness, and contrast of video transmissions, using video console control panels.
73%
Make commercial dubs.
71%
Determine the number, type, and approximate location of microphones needed for best sound recording or transmission quality, and position them appropriately.
71%
Organize recording sessions and prepare areas, such as radio booths and television stations, for recording.
70%
Set up and operate portable field transmission equipment outside the studio.
69%
Give technical directions to other personnel during filming.
68%
Prepare reports outlining past and future programs, including content.
67%
Produce graphics for broadcasts.
66%
Discuss production requirements with clients.
62%
Produce educational and training films and videotapes by performing activities, such as selecting equipment and preparing scripts.
51%