Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Broadcasting Engineer- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Working Life
Broadcasting engineers who work in television are responsible for the audio and video equipment used for studio recordings, and for network and outside broadcasts. In a large television company, studio engineers are likely to provide support to different departments, including news, broadcast and production.
Some broadcasting engineers are responsible for the quality of signals fed to and received from a number of networks. Some broadcasting engineers work on location with outside broadcasts, or at transmitting stations, which can be in remote areas. The broadcast engineer installs, tests and maintains technical facilities in studios for transmission and editing.
Engineers also support new technologies, for example, digital text services that are replacing traditional text based information services.
There are broadcasting engineers involved in research and development, helping to create and develop new ideas. For example, they have developed digital terrestrial television and online Internet services.
Engineers in radio broadcasting are responsible for the maintenance, testing and alignment of advanced control and switching systems. They use both analogue and digital coding equipment.
Broadcasting engineers sometimes work in cramped or overcrowded conditions. In outside broadcasts, they may work in bad weather or isolated locations. Location work and outside broadcasts may mean staying away from home regularly.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Report equipment problems, ensure that repairs are made, and make emergency repairs to equipment when necessary and possible.
- Monitor and log transmitter readings.
- Maintain programming logs as required by station management and the Federal Communications Commission.
- Monitor strength, clarity, and reliability of incoming and outgoing signals, and adjust equipment as necessary to maintain quality broadcasts.
- Observe monitors and converse with station personnel to determine audio and video levels and to ascertain that programmes are airing.
- Preview scheduled programmes to ensure that signals are functioning and programmes are ready for transmission.
- Play and record broadcast programmes, using automation systems.
- Set up, operate, and maintain broadcast station computers and networks.
- Select sources from which programming will be received or through which programming will be transmitted.
- Install broadcast equipment, troubleshoot equipment problems, and perform maintenance or minor repairs, using hand tools.
Qualities - Broadcasting Engineer
To be a broadcasting engineer, you must be interested in working on a wide range of advanced technological equipment. A genuine interest in this work is essential because competition for jobs is fierce and successful applicants tend to have relevant work experience. You need to have good communication skills. Broadcast Engineers should also have an interest in the content of the programme they are transmitting.
You must be able to work to very tight deadlines; you need to be able to think quickly and use your initiative and improvise if things go wrong. You must also have strong team skills to work well with others; small teams often work on programmes so team spirit is very important. You should also be able to work neatly and have a high level of safety awareness. You need to be flexible and work unsocial hours.
It is essential that broadcasting engineers keep up to date with advances in technology in this fast changing area.
Interests - Broadcasting Engineer
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Investigative
The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.
Entry / Progression - Broadcasting Engineer
Most entrants have a degree or HND in subjects such as Electrical or Electronic Engineering. Courses in Electrical/Electronic Engineering can be found at most Institutes of Technology and Universities. Candidates should check the prospectus of their local institution for course information.
Other relevant degrees include Physics and computer related subjects such as Software Engineering and Computer Science.
Depending on their level of entry, broadcasting engineers can gain Chartered Engineer or Associate Engineer status. These professional titles can be applied for after first gaining an accredited degree, diploma or certificate and following this through with three or four years experience in the workplace.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: engineering, radio production, broadcast skills, media production.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include:
creative digital media, TV, film studies, film production, sound engineering, media studies.
Search for PLC Courses
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Electrical Engineering.
Search for Apprenticeships
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
Example search terms include: TV, film production, media and communication, sound and music engineer, arts and media.
Search for CAO Courses
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Example search terms include: arts, media, sound and music engineering.
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Training for production staff may be on-the-job. The company may organise short off-the-job courses for trainees. Screen skills work based learning programs
For a list of TV/ Film production companies and career roles check IFTV Irish Film & Television network or Careersinscreen
Pay & Salary - Broadcasting Engineer
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €28k - €60k
Salaries vary depending on employer, location, experience, and duties. These vary from TV & Radio, some engineers work on project, sessional, or contract basis.
Data Source(s):
Payscale / Indeed / Glassdoor
Last Updated: July, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Broadcasting Engineer
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Artists; Authors; writers; translators; Actors; entertainers; presenters; Dancers; choreographers; Musicians Arts officers; producers; directors; Photographers; audio-visual and broadcasting equipment operators; Graphic designers Product; clothing and related designers.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Employment grew strongly between 2021 and 2022, with an additional 7,300 persons employed. As illustrated in the CSO Census data below, employment is spread across a number of roles; since 2016, the strongest growth, in absolute terms, was for graphic designers and authors, writers and translators.
New employment permits issued for this occupation in 2022 were primarily for film/TV and animation/visual effects (VFX) roles but also for linguistics experts in the ICT sector. There was also a high volume of recent job hires in line with the recent employment increase. The data does not point to overall issues with recruitment for these roles.
Useful Contacts - Broadcasting Engineer
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Radio Telefis Eireann (RTE)
