Job Description
A Broadcast Engineer is responsible for making sure programmes are on time and to the highest quality. Also, they will be operating and maintaining the systems which you will carry out updates and repairs. They work with hardware and broadcast systems that are used across televisions, radio and new media. Being an Broadcast Engineer you will be working in a variety of locations and situations.
Entry Requirements
You can get into this job through:
Apprenticeship
You can get started by doing a broadcast and media systems technical operator advanced apprenticeship or a broadcast and media systems engineer degree apprenticeship.
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or more A levels, or equivalent, including maths and science, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
You can start on an in-house engineering training scheme like the BBC's degree apprenticeship.
Click here to search for an apprenticeship.
University
You'll need a degree to apply for a graduate training scheme with a broadcaster. Useful subjects include:
- broadcast engineering
- broadcast technology
- electronics
- physics
- computer science
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
Click here to search for a suitable course.
You can apply for the BBC Broadcast Engineering Graduate Scheme, if you have an honours degree (at least an upper class second or equivalent) in electronics, physics, maths, computer science or a closely related subject.
Work
You could start work with a broadcaster as a production assistant and later apply for a place on an in-house engineer training scheme.
You could also begin as a broadcast technician, for example after an apprenticeship, then do further training on the job to become an engineer.
Career Tips
You could have an advantage if you've got practical experience by volunteering or getting some work experience using broadcast technology equipment, as competition for places on training schemes is strong. You could get this through, student film and TV productions, community or hospital radio or a placement with a broadcaster.
You can apply for professional registration with the Engineering Council for Information and Communications Technology Technician or Chartered Engineer status. Registration can improve your career prospects.
Career Path and Progression
With experience, you could move into management.
You could also work freelance.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- DJ
- Electronics engineer
- TV or film production assistant
- Live sound engineer
- Electronics engineering technician
- TV or film camera operator
Required Skills
- Excellent technical skills
- Experience in electronic engineering and using media equipment
- Good IT skills
- Good problem solving abilities
- Able to remain calm under pressure
- Ability to work to deadlines
- Excellent attention to detail
- Good time management skills
Salary Range
£20,000 to £50,000
