Broadcast Engineer

Broadcast engineers use their technical expertise to ensure that television and radio programmes are transmitted at the right time and to the highest technical standard. They build, install and maintain the systems that make broadcasting possible.

Broadcast engineers work for broadcast, cable and satellite companies, across the whole range of programmes. They may work in maintenance or have a more operational role. Broadcast engineers also work for facilities houses and for equipment manufacturers.

Depending on their role, broadcast engineers may:

• design and set up circuits, hardware and software and broadcast systems
• install, test and maintain technical facilities, including studios, editing and transmission systems
• analyse and fix technical faults
• investigate new techniques and equipment
• manage other engineers and technical staff.

Broadcast engineers work around 40 hours a week. Shift work is common, including nights, weekends and public holidays. Broadcast engineers may sometimes be expected to work longer hours, especially when technical problems arise.

The work may be based in offices, maintenance workshops, machine rooms, studio galleries or on location. Broadcasting is deadline driven and the demands of maintaining 24-hour output can make this a highly pressurised role.

Salaries may range from £18,000 for a trainee engineer to £60,000 or more for those with management responsibilities.

Broadcast engineers need:

• an understanding of media formats, including analogue, tape and digital
• advanced electronic engineering skills
• excellent IT skills
• a creative approach to problem solving
• effective communication and teamwork skills
• the ability to work well under pressure
• an awareness of broadcast technology and future technological developments

The main employers are the BBC, the terrestrial broadcasters (ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and S4C), satellite, cable and digital broadcasters, outside broadcast companies, facilities houses, telecommunications companies and equipment manufacturers. The industry is mostly based in London, but there are openings throughout the UK.

Broadcast engineers usually start as trainees. Most trainees have a degree in electrical, electronic or broadcast engineering, or broadcast technology. It may be possible to enter the industry without engineering qualifications, by starting in a junior role, and progressing through in-house training and by showing the required technical aptitude.

Broadcast engineers generally train on the job.

Most broadcast engineers stay in engineering roles and progress by specialising or by taking on senior operational, supervisory or management roles. With extensive experience, some broadcast engineers may choose to work freelance.

Further details