Broadcast engineer

Broadcast engineers make sure programmes are shown at the right times and are high quality.


Typical Salary

£20,000 – £50,000

per year

Working Hours

42–44

hours per week

Career Area

Electronics engineers

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Day-to-day tasks

You could:

  • set up studio equipment
  • install multimedia hardware, software and digital broadcast technology systems
  • set up and operate links between studios and outside broadcast (OB) units
  • edit programmes live as they’re being transmitted or recorded
  • test and service equipment, including repairing faults

Skills needed

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • the ability to work well with others
  • broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • knowledge of maths
  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

How to get into this role

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role
  • volunteering
  • a training scheme

Career progression

With experience, you could specialise in working with specific types of equipment, such as digital, cable or satellite.

Many engineers work freelance so networking and keeping up to date with changes in the industry is really important to win clients.