A broadcast engineer ensures that radio, television, and other broadcast signals are delivered clearly and reliably to audiences. This career involves setting up, operating, maintaining, and repairing the technical equipment used in studios and on location. Broadcast engineers are responsible for the sound and picture quality of broadcasts, working closely with production teams to solve technical issues quickly, especially during live programmes. They also play a key role in upgrading and testing new technology as the industry moves towards digital and online broadcasting. The job can be fast-paced and requires good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to stay calm under pressure.
The average salary for a broadcast engineer in the UK ranges from £25,000 to £45,000 per year, with experienced engineers earning up to £60,000.
There are approximately 3,000 broadcast engineering positions across the UK, with demand highest in London and major cities.
Broadcast engineers often work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, to cover live events and scheduled broadcasts.
Specialises in setting up, operating, and maintaining the audio equipment used in radio and television broadcasts.
Focuses on providing technical support and equipment operation for live events and broadcasts that happen outside of the studio, such as sporting events and concerts.
Works on the computer networks and software systems that support digital broadcasting, ensuring smooth transmission and storage of media content.
Focus on subjects like maths, physics, and computing at GCSE and A Level, as these build a strong foundation for the technical aspects of broadcast engineering.
Broadcasters look for candidates who can demonstrate good problem-solving and analytical skills. Studying maths and science will help you develop the logical thinking required to understand broadcasting equipment and signal flow. Computing can also be helpful, as modern broadcasting increasingly uses digital technology.
Apply for a degree in broadcast engineering, electronic engineering, media technology, or a related subject. Alternatively, consider a higher apprenticeship in broadcast and media systems.
Universities across the UK offer degrees that specialise in broadcasting technology. Apprenticeships are also a great way to gain hands-on experience while studying. Look for schemes run by broadcasters such as the BBC or ITV, which combine on-the-job training with classroom learning.
Apply for placements, internships, or work experience opportunities with broadcasters, production companies, or radio stations.
Placements provide valuable insight into the working environment and the specific technologies used in broadcasting. You will learn how live broadcasts are managed and gain hands-on experience with technical equipment, such as cameras, mixing desks, and transmission systems.
Get involved with your university’s student radio or TV station, or volunteer with local community media projects.
These opportunities allow you to develop practical skills in a less pressured environment. You can try out different technical roles, learn how to resolve issues quickly, and build a portfolio of work to show prospective employers.
Look for roles such as broadcast engineering assistant, junior broadcast engineer, or technical operator with broadcasters or facilities companies.
Entry-level positions give you the chance to support senior engineers, set up and test equipment, and get involved in live broadcasts. Employers include major broadcasters, independent production houses, and outside broadcast companies.
Stay up to date with the latest technology by attending industry events, gaining professional certifications, and joining industry bodies like the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Broadcasting technology evolves rapidly, so ongoing learning is important. Industry events and courses can help you specialise in areas such as IP-based broadcasting, sound engineering, or video transmission. Membership in professional bodies can also provide networking opportunities and access to job boards.
Sound engineers manage and operate audio equipment for live events, recording studios, or broadcasts, ensuring high-quality sound production.
Production assistants support the crew and directors during TV shows, helping with logistics, equipment, and coordination on set.
IT support technicians maintain and troubleshoot computer systems and networks, which are increasingly important in modern broadcast environments.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
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The closest match is 'Broadcast engineer' itself, as both involve the technical planning, installation, operation, and maintenance of broadcast equipment and systems. This role requires specialised knowledge of audio-visual technology, signal flow, and broadcasting standards, aligning directly with the qualifications typically associated with broadcast engineering.
You can get into this job through:
You'll need a degree to apply for a graduate training scheme. Useful subjects include:
You'll usually need:
You may be able to find a trainee position in broadcast engineering after doing a T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production.
You'll usually need:
4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
You could apply to a company to do an apprenticeship, such as a:
These can take between 2 and 3 years and combine on-the-job training and time spent with a learning provider.
You'll usually need:
You could start work as a production assistant and apply for a place on an engineer training scheme once you have some experience.
Another option is to begin as a broadcast technician, for example after an apprenticeship, and do further training on the job to become an engineer.
You'll find it useful to get practical experience using broadcasting equipment as there is a lot of competition for places on training schemes.
You could get experience through:
If you already work for a broadcast company in a different role, you might be able to start an engineering training scheme with the company you work for, like the BBC's degree apprenticeship.
You can find out more about working in broadcasting from:
You can also get information about working in broadcast media from ScreenSkills.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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