Audio visual technician

Audio visual technicians set up and operate sound, lighting and video equipment at events, conferences and performances.


Typical Salary

£22,000 – £35,000

per year

Working Hours

38–45

hours per week

Career Area

Photographers, audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators

View related courses

Day-to-day tasks

As an audio visual (AV) technician you could:

  • work with event organisers to draw up a production plan
  • set up and test sound, lighting and video equipment, and program control systems
  • carry out pre-event safety checks and fix faults
  • operate equipment during events in line with instructions
  • pack up equipment at a venue ready for storage or transportation
  • train others in the safe use of AV equipment

Skills needed

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • the ability to work on your own
  • the ability to work well with your hands
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

Career progression

With experience, you could:

  • manage an audio visual (AV) department, for example in a college or university
  • specialise in lighting or sound design
  • provide bespoke systems in homes and businesses
  • move into AV equipment services and sales
  • become self employed and install screens and equipment in music venues, sports stadiums and transport hubs

You might also wish to become an events manager or broadcast engineer.