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Television Audio/Video Operator

Audio and video operators set up, prepare and operate television audio and video broadcasting equipment.

Also Known As

Audio Recording Engineer, Character Generator Operator, Electronic Video Graphics Operator, Mix Engineer, Production Switcher, Sound Technician, Switcher, Video Switcher, Videotape Operator, Videotape Post-Production Editor

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

  • 5225: Audio and Video Recording Technicians

2006 NOC-S

  • F125: Audio and Video Recording Technicians

2011 NOC

  • 5225: Audio and video recording technicians

2016 NOC

  • 5225: Audio and video recording technicians

2021 NOC

  • 52113: Audio and video recording technicians

2023 OaSIS

  • 52113.00: Audio and video recording technicians
Duties
Updated Mar 05, 2021

Audio operators set up, prepare, operate and adjust audio recording, editing and reproducing equipment at television stations and remote broadcast locations. In general, they work at audio consoles or with computers to:

  • Mix sound inputs or feeds
  • Regulate the volume and technical quality of sound during the production of pre-recorded and live television broadcasts
  • Edit audio material before and after productions

During a production or broadcast, audio operators bring in required sound elements at pre-determined times. Sometimes, they must co-ordinate a number of audio feeds with a television picture. Feeds may include pre-recorded material, records, compact discs (CDs), digital audio devices and videotapes as well as inputs from live microphones, satellites or microwave trucks.

Videotape operators prepare and operate videotape and non-linear computer equipment and work with a variety of audio and video formats at television stations and remote broadcast locations. In general, they:

  • Set up and load videotapes as required for broadcast each day
  • Import station programming, commercials and promotional materials into non-linear playback servers
  • Prepare and operate videotape and non-linear playback equipment during the production of live and pre-recorded programming
  • Add video or sound as required
  • Monitor and record program, commercial, news and promotional feeds
  • Ensure that videotapes are available for scheduled recording or production

During production, videotape operators monitor the sound and picture being recorded and inform the director about malfunctions that might affect the quality of the recorded program. During news productions, they play back all video and sound elements required in the program.

Master control operators monitor, record and play back all signals and programs entering and leaving a station. With the introduction of computerized editing and recording equipment, videotape and master controls often are combined.

Switchers work at an electronic console in a control room where they select video sources specified by the director during television videotaping sessions and live broadcasts. Switchers integrate program components from sources such as live cameras, videotape, video servers, and special effects and graphic equipment. In general, switchers:

  • Program computerized switcher functions
  • Superimpose on-screen graphics, such as titles and credits, that are fed from electronic video graphics equipment
  • Mix or dissolve between sources and insert special effects used to make a transition from one video source to another
  • Program digital video effects units

At some television stations, switchers also may direct television productions.

Video editors use non-linear editing systems to blend video recordings together and add video effects, music and audio effects. In general, they:

  • Set up and operate automated videotape edit controllers and electronic titling units
  • Operate computer editing systems, video switching equipment and digital video effects units
  • Assemble raw footage according to scripts or the instructions of a director or producer
  • Program digital graphic effects
  • Incorporate audio sound with footage

Graphics operators use computer software to generate opening titles, subtitles and closing credits and may design graphic backgrounds and animations as well. In general, they:

  • Design lettering and logos
  • Create artwork for news, weather and sports
  • Capture video pictures and prepare graphic stills
  • Create and develop graphic art, including animation or special effects

Advancements in graphics technology have made it possible for electronic video graphic operators to produce increasingly sophisticated graphics including 3-dimensional animation.

Working Conditions
Updated Mar 05, 2021
  • Strength Required Lift up to 5 kg

Depending on their responsibilities, audio and video equipment operators may work entirely at a station or at various remote locations. Most operators work rotating shifts that include afternoons, evenings, weekends and holidays. Coping with tight schedules and deadlines can be stressful.

Interests & Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Audio and Video Recording Technicians

2006 NOC: 5225

Interest Codes

Interest Codes for This NOC Group
OBJECTIVE

Interest in controlling audio consoles or computers, tape machines, microphones and sound processing equipment to mix, combine and edit music and sound at concerts and live events and to operate electronic equipment to generate program titles, credits, subtitles, graphic backgrounds or animation for television programs

METHODICAL

Interest in compiling information to play back edited sound tracks in synchronization with motion picture films

INNOVATIVE

Interest in mixing, combining and editing music and sound at concerts and live events, and synchronizing edited dialogue, music and sound effect tracks from different sources

Your Interest Codes

To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Reading Interest Codes
A Quick Guide

The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation. 

It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.

Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.

A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.

A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.

Learn About Interests

Abilities

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group
Your abilities

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.

Mental Abilities

General Learning Ability

Verbal Ability

Numerical Ability

Visual Abilities

Spatial Perception

Form Perception

Clerical Perception

Physical Abilities

Motor Coordination

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Understanding Abilities

A Quick Guide

You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Learn About Abilities

Traits & Skills
Updated Mar 05, 2021

Audio and video equipment operators need:

  • Motor co-ordination
  • Creativity and artistic ability
  • Communication and interpersonal skills for working with others in a team environment
  • The ability to remain alert while performing routine, repetitive tasks

They should enjoy using electronic equipment to perform precision tasks and troubleshooting problems.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Audio and video recording technicians

2016 NOC: 5225

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 57 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Nov 18, 2021 and Nov 06, 2024.

Review these skills to learn:

  • Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
  • What training you may need to get these skills
  • What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.
Tasks: Operate audio-visual or electronic equipment
Tasks: Prepare and operate videotape recording and playback equipment and edit video tape after production
Tasks: Operate mixing, dubbing, editing machinery and equipment
Tasks: Operate audio consoles or computers, tape machines, microphones and sound processing equipment at concerts and live events
Attention to detail
Flexibility
Team player
Tasks: Set up, prepare, operate and adjust audio, recording, editing and reproducing equipment to record, edit and reproduce sound input
Video production
Work under pressure
Educational Requirements
Updated Mar 05, 2021
  • Minimum Education 2 years post-secondary

Audio and video equipment operators need related post-secondary education.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements
Updated Mar 05, 2021
  • Certification Not Regulated

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.

Employment & Advancement
Updated Mar 05, 2021

Audio and video equipment operators work for:

  • Television networks, specialty channels and local broadcast stations
  • Film, video and concert production companies
  • Cable television public-access programming channels
  • Sound recording companies
  • Audio and video production and editing companies
  • Major mobile sports productions

Competition is keen in the broadcasting field so new graduates often start at small stations and work in a number of different areas. An interest in music and related experience are definite assets.

Freelancing has become the trend in broadcasting. Increasingly, freelancers are producing programming for new channels as well as existing ones. Contract employment also can be found producing in-house programs such as corporate videos (for example, for safety and technical training, recruiting, sales or marketing). To be successful, freelancers must be talented but also able to establish a network of contacts and make themselves available when needed. A significant investment in equipment may be required to compete and maintain successful businesses.

Experienced audio and video operators may move into more specialized positions. For example, video operators may become video editors. Operators also may advance to technical supervisory positions and, if they have the necessary ability and experience, eventually may become directors or producers.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Audio and video recording technicians
2016 NOC: 5225

79.1% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Audio and video recording technicians
2021 NOC: 52113
Lower
Demand
< 1500
Employed

Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

  • Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
  • Location in Alberta
  • Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
  • Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
  • Size of the occupation
  • Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Audio and video recording technicians
2016 NOC: 5225
2.6%
Annual Growth
(Above Average)
17
New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Related Alberta Job Postings
Wage & Salary
Updated Mar 05, 2021

Salaries for audio and video operators vary depending on the size of the operation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Audio and video recording technicians

2016 NOC: 5225
Average Wage
$34.78
Per Hour
Average Salary
$53,209.00
Per Year
Average Hours
30.8
Per Week
Average Months on Payroll
12
Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2021 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 5225 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

C: Lower Reliability
Data Reliability Code Definition

Lower Reliability, represents a CV of between 15.01% and 33.00% and/or if fewer than 20 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 33% of all estimated employment for the occupation.


Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
  • Low
  • High
  • Average
  • Median
Starting
Overall
Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees
Wages* Low (5th percentile) High (95th percentile) Average Median
Starting $15.00 $75.00 $31.15 $27.39
Overall $15.00 $75.00 $34.78 $32.96
Top $15.00 $75.00 $37.37 $34.62

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

  • Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
  • Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
  • Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES
Public Administration

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years
22%
22%)
Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties
N/A
Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months
0%
0%
Vacancy Rate
N/A
Related Post-Secondary Field of Study
  • Communications
Other Sources of Information
Updated Mar 05, 2021

Cultural Human Resources Council website: culturalhrc.ca

Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.

Updated Mar 05, 2021. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.

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