17 Broadcast Technician Interview Questions and Answers

TV and radio stations, as well as other types of businesses, need people who can set up, operate, and maintain the equipment used for broadcasting. If you want to work as a broadcast technician, you’ll need to be familiar with the types of equipment used in the industry and be able to answer broadcast technician interview questions.

In this guide, you’ll find several broadcast technician interview questions and answers, including questions about your experience with the types of equipment used in the broadcasting industry.

You’ll also learn about the types of equipment used in the broadcasting industry and the best ways to maintain and operate them.

Are you comfortable working in high-pressure situations?

High-pressure situations are common in broadcast journalism. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the stress of working on deadline and under pressure. In your answer, share a time when you worked under pressure and how you handled it. Explain that you’re comfortable with high-pressure situations and know how to manage them effectively.

Example: “I’m very comfortable working in high-pressure situations. I’ve been working as a broadcast technician for five years now, and I’ve learned that there’s always going to be some sort of pressure. However, I think it’s important to remain calm and collected no matter what situation you’re in. When I work under pressure, I try to take deep breaths and focus on my task at hand. This helps me stay focused and get the job done.”

What are some of the most important skills for a broadcast technician to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a few of your strongest skills and how they relate to the job.

Example: “The most important skill for a broadcast technician is communication. This is because we work with many different people on a daily basis, including producers, directors, camera operators and other technicians. Communication skills allow me to relay information clearly and efficiently so that everyone understands what I’m saying. Another important skill is problem-solving. In my previous roles as a broadcast technician, I’ve encountered many problems during live broadcasts. Being able to solve these issues quickly helps ensure that the production runs smoothly.”

How do you handle stress while working on a tight deadline or under pressure?

When working in broadcast, you may be required to work under pressure or tight deadlines. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these situations well and complete your tasks on time. In your answer, share a specific example of how you handled stress while working as a broadcast technician. Explain what steps you took to manage the situation effectively.

Example: “In my previous role, I was tasked with setting up for a live event that aired at 7 p.m. At 5 p.m., I realized we were missing some equipment. The producer asked me if I could get it ready by 6:30 p.m. so they could do a sound check before the show started. I knew there was no way I could get everything done in time, but I also didn’t want to disappoint anyone. So, I gathered everyone together and explained the situation. Then, we all got to work. We finished setting up just in time for the show to start.”

What is your experience with operating audio mixing boards?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with a specific piece of broadcast equipment. Use your answer to highlight your skills and past successes operating audio mixing boards.

Example: “I have five years of experience working as an audio engineer for my college radio station. In this role, I was responsible for setting up microphones, adjusting levels on the mixing board and monitoring sound quality during broadcasts. This helped me develop my ability to multitask while also ensuring that our broadcasts were always clear and free from static or other interference.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to troubleshoot an issue with one of your pieces of equipment.

This question can allow you to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation in which you had to troubleshoot an issue with one of your pieces of equipment. It can also be beneficial to mention the steps you took to solve the problem.

Example: “In my last role as a broadcast technician, I was responsible for setting up all of the audio equipment for our morning show. One day, we were having some issues with the microphones on set. The host would speak into the microphone, but no sound would come through the speakers. After testing each microphone, I realized that only two out of five were working properly. I then tested the cables connecting the microphones to the mixer board and found that they were both functioning correctly.

I decided to test the mixer board itself by plugging in another microphone. Sure enough, when I plugged in the other microphone, the first microphone began working again. I concluded that there must have been something wrong with the first microphone’s cable. I swapped out the faulty cable with a new one and everything worked perfectly.”

If you were given two different types of cameras to use for a broadcast, how would you decide which one to use?

This question can help the interviewer assess your decision-making skills and ability to prioritize tasks. Use examples from past experiences where you had to make a choice between two different types of cameras or other equipment, and explain how you made that decision.

Example: “In my last role as a broadcast technician, I was given both a standard camera and an ultra-high definition camera for a live event. The high-definition camera was more expensive than the standard one, so I decided to use it for the main event while using the standard camera for interviews during commercial breaks. This allowed me to save money on the production costs without sacrificing quality.”

What would you do if you were given a script and you realized you didn’t have the proper equipment to film or broadcast it?

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt. Your answer should show the interviewer that you can think on your feet, prioritize tasks and make quick decisions.

Example: “If I was given a script and realized I didn’t have the proper equipment to film or broadcast it, I would first ask my supervisor if we had any other equipment available that could help me complete the task. If not, I would immediately begin researching what equipment I needed to buy or rent so I could start filming as soon as possible. I would also let the producer know about the situation so they could find another technician to fill in for me until I could get the necessary equipment.”

How well do you understand SMPTE timecode?

SMPTE timecode is a standard that broadcasters use to identify specific moments in recorded video. This question helps the interviewer assess your technical knowledge and ability to work with other broadcast technicians who may have more experience than you. In your answer, try to show that you understand how SMPTE timecode works but also highlight any challenges you might have using it.

Example: “I’ve worked with SMPTE timecode for several years now, so I’m quite familiar with its uses. However, I do find it challenging to keep track of multiple streams of timecode at once. For example, when I was working on a live sports broadcast, I had to monitor two different feeds of timecode simultaneously. It took me some practice to get used to this, but eventually I got better at keeping track of both.”

Do you have experience using any video editing software?

Video editing software is a common skill for broadcast technicians to have. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary skills to do your job well. If you have experience using video editing software, share what programs you’ve used in the past and explain how they helped you with your job.

Example: “I’ve worked with several different types of video editing software throughout my career. I started out working as an intern at a local news station where we used Final Cut Pro. After that internship, I got a full-time position at a production company where we used Adobe Premiere Pro. I also learned some basic skills in iMovie while helping my niece edit her home videos.”

When setting up a broadcast, how do you determine where to place the camera and the subject?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your technical skills to support a broadcast. Use examples from past experiences where you used your critical thinking and problem-solving skills to make decisions about camera placement and subject positioning.

Example: “I first consider what type of shot I need for the story, whether it’s a wide shot or close up. Then, I look at the available space in the studio and decide if we have enough room for the equipment and talent. If not, I’ll work with my team to find an alternate location that will allow us to get the shots we need. For example, when I was working on a live sports broadcast, we didn’t have enough space in our studio to set up two cameras for a play-by-play broadcast. Instead, we moved one camera outside to capture the action.”

We want to encourage our technicians to be creative when solving problems. How would you approach a situation where you were given a strict set of guidelines and limitations?

This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach challenges and solve problems. Your answer should show that you are willing to take initiative, think critically and use your problem-solving skills to find solutions.

Example: “I would first evaluate what I was given as a limitation or guideline. If it’s something I feel is reasonable, I will try my best to adhere to it. However, if I feel there is a better way of doing things, I will speak up and explain why I believe this. For example, in one previous role, we were told not to change any camera angles during a broadcast. During an important game, I noticed that the angle we had chosen wasn’t showing the play-by-play action well. I spoke with my supervisor about changing the angle, and they agreed that it would be beneficial for the viewers.”

Describe your process for testing all of the equipment before starting a live broadcast.

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you’re organized and detail-oriented. You can describe a specific process for testing equipment before starting a broadcast, or you can talk about how you prioritize the order in which you test each piece of equipment.

Example: “I start by checking all of the cables first because I know if they aren’t connected properly, it could cause problems with other pieces of equipment. Next, I check the audio levels on both the primary and backup microphones. Then, I make sure the teleprompter is working correctly and that there’s enough lighting for the talent. Finally, I double-check the camera angles and focus.”

What makes you a good fit for this role at our company?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you feel about the role. Before your interview, make a list of reasons why you are qualified for this position. Consider including any relevant experience or skills that match what they’re looking for in an employee.

Example: “I am a hard worker who is always willing to go above and beyond to get the job done. I have excellent communication skills and enjoy working with others. I also have several years of experience as a broadcast technician, so I know what it takes to succeed in this role. I’m excited to join your team because I think my skills and abilities can help your company achieve its goals.”

Which broadcast technician has influenced you the most and why?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand your career path. It also helps them determine if you have a mentor or someone who helped you along the way. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention someone who has similar skills as you but whose work ethic inspired you to do more.

Example: “I would say my biggest influence was my broadcast technician teacher in high school. She taught me everything I needed to know about the field and how to apply for college. She always pushed us to do our best and never settle for less than we were capable of doing. She is still one of my mentors today.”

What do you think is the most important aspect of a broadcast technician’s job?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your understanding of what it means to be a broadcast technician. Your answer should show that you understand the role and responsibilities of this position, as well as how important they are.

Example: “I think the most important aspect of being a broadcast technician is ensuring that all equipment is functioning properly before going on air. This includes checking audio levels, camera angles and lighting. It’s also important to make sure that any technical issues that arise during a live broadcast are resolved quickly so viewers don’t notice anything amiss.”

How often do you update your knowledge and skills as a broadcast technician?

Employers ask this question to see if you are committed to your career and want to learn more about it. They also want to know how often they need to provide training for new equipment or software. When answering, show that you are dedicated to learning and improving yourself as a broadcast technician. Explain what steps you take to keep up with the industry and stay on top of your job responsibilities.

Example: “I am always looking for ways to improve my skills as a broadcast technician. I subscribe to several online newsletters and blogs where professionals discuss their experiences in the field. I also attend conferences and seminars hosted by local companies and organizations. These events allow me to meet other technicians and learn from them directly. I find these methods to be very helpful when trying to advance my career.”

There is a risk that your equipment will malfunction during a broadcast. How would you prepare to ensure the best possible outcome?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to think on your feet. Your answer should include a specific example of how you handled a similar situation in the past.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for setting up all broadcast equipment before each game. One night, I noticed that one of our cameras wasn’t working properly. I immediately checked the power supply and then tested the camera’s functions. It turned out that the camera had lost its focus. I adjusted the lens and got everything ready for the next game.”