Audio-visual technician

Audio-visual technicians install and operate visual, sound and lighting equipment in learning, events and performance spaces.Day-to-day tasksset up and test equipmentfind and deal with faultsoperate equipment during events or performancescheck and service equipmenttrain other people in how to use equipmentcarry out safety checks on AV equipment for organisations or venuesWorking environmentWhere you could workYou could work at a conference centre, in a theatre, at a recording studio, at a college or at a client\'s home.Your working environment may be physically demanding.Working hours39 to 41 hours per weekWhen you could workevenings / weekends / bank holidays (attending events or appointments)Skills you\'ll needto be thorough and pay attention to detailthe ability to accept criticism and work well under pressureknowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and softwarethe ability to work on your ownthe ability to work well with your handsphysical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and graceto be flexible and open to changepatience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situationsto be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidentlyHow to become oneYou can get into this job through:a college courseworking towards this roleCollegeThere is no set entry route to become an audio-visual technician but it may be useful to do a college course like: Level 2 Technical Diploma in Digital Audio and Visual Production; Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology; Level 3 Certificate in Technical Theatre: Sound, Light and Stage; T Level in Media, Broadcast and ProductionThis would teach you some of the skills needed for the job. You could then try to find a trainee job with a theatre, college or events company. Some employers may prefer you to have experience of live events.You'll usually need:2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T levelYou could get into this job through a creative venue technician or live event technician or rigger advanced apprenticeship.You could also do a smart home technician advanced apprenticeship if you install and set up digital technology in people\'s houses, for example home cinema, sound, lighting and security systems.You'll usually need:5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeshipYou could volunteer with a charity, college or theatre group to get experience of setting up and running audio-visual technology and software.You could start as an assistant technician and work your way up. Experience and qualifications in broadcast and sound technology, or electronics, would be useful.Career path and progressionWith experience, you could manage an audio-visual department, specialise in lighting or sound design, or become an events manager. You could also move into equipment and services sales.You could work self-employed or freelance, for example installing audio-visual equipment in people\'s homes.More informationYou can find out more about this career from:You can find out more about audio-visual careers and training from ScreenSkills. #J-18808-Ljbffr