Audio and video equipment technicians are responsible for setting up and operating equipment used in presentations and for communication purposes. This includes speakers, video monitors and screens, microphones and recording devices. Connecting cables and wires and setting up sound and mixing boards for events, concerts, conventions, meetings, news conferences and presentations are common tasks performed by these technicians. They are also involved in setting up and operating lighting systems such as spotlights. In addition, they are responsible for installing and maintaining audio and video equipment used by large companies and organizations to upgrade their facilities.
Summary
- Individuals can prepare for a career in this field by completing a training program offered at a technical school.
- Most of their work is done indoors, however, they may also be required to work outdoors as well.
- An associate or bachelor’s degree program can also prepare one for work as an audio or video technician.
- According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in this field is expected to grow about as fast as average.
Work Environment for Audio and Video Equipment Technicians
Audio and video equipment technicians usually carry out their work indoors, but may be occasionally required to do their work in outdoor areas as well. They may have to work under pressure at times to meet certain deadlines which can require overtime hours.
Education, Training and Licensing
To gain entrance into this field, training from a technical school can be completed within several months or a year. Many individuals working as technicians earned their associate or bachelor’s degree, however, this is typically not required. High school and college courses can also provide preparation, and school audiovisual organizations provide students with training and experience in this field. Entry-level opportunities working as an assistant can also give a technician training and experience.
Employment Figures, Projections, Outlook and Earnings for Audio and Video Equipment Technicians
According to research published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), audio and video equipment technicians held approximately 46,070 jobs in May 2009. Most of these jobs were in the motion picture and video industries, commercial and industrial machinery and equipment rental and leasing. Other jobs were in radio and television broadcasting, colleges, universities and professional schools and for other support services.
Employment in this field is forecasted by the BLS to grow about as fast as average, as audio and video equipment is in high demand in new buildings, especially in schools. Technicians will be needed to install, maintain and repair the equipment. Demand will also come from companies that employ permanent audio and video technician employees.
BLS records for May 2009 indicate that the average annual wage for audio and video equipment technicians was $42,450. The middle 50% earned between $28,740 and $53,720. While the lowest 10% had a yearly salary of $21,840 or less, the highest 10% earned upwards of $69,020 annually.