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Audio-visual technician

Alternative titles for this job include AV technician

Audio-visual technicians install and operate visual, sound and lighting equipment at conference centres, schools, colleges and events.

Average salary (a year)

£16,000 Starter

to

£40,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

39 to 41 a week

You could work

evenings / weekends / bank holidays attending events or appointments

How to become an audio-visual technician

You can get into this job through:

  • a college course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

College

There 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
  • Level 3 Certificate in Technical Theatre: Sound, Light and Stage

This would teach you some of the skills needed for the job. You could then try to find a trainee job with a theatre or events company. Some employers may prefer you to have experience of live events.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 (A* to D), or equivalent, for a level 2 course
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course

More information

Apprenticeship

You could get into this job through a creative venue technician or live event technician advanced apprenticeship.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

More information

Work

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.

Volunteering and experience

You could volunteer with a charity, college or theatre group to get experience of setting up and running audio-visual technology and software.

More information

Career tips

Employers value experience, so it would improve your chances of finding work if you've got experience of setting up and using audio, visual and computer technology.

Professional and industry bodies

You could join organisations like PLASA or the Production Services Association, for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

Further information

You can find out more about audio-visual careers and training from ScreenSkills.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
  • knowledge of media production and communication
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
  • broadcasting and telecommunications knowledge
  • patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

Your day-to-day duties might include:

  • setting up and testing equipment before an event
  • finding and dealing with any faults
  • operating equipment during rehearsals and events
  • checking and servicing equipment
  • managing equipment booking
  • training other people to use the equipment
  • assessing a venue's AV equipment

Working environment

You could work at a college, at a university or at a conference centre.

Your working environment may be physically demanding.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could manage a department, become a project manager or systems designer, or move into sales or account management.

You could be self-employed or freelance.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Creative Venue Technician Apprenticeship

  • Wage : £174.00 - £328.40 Weekly
  • Location: Salford M50 3AZ

Video Production Apprentice

  • Wage : £180.00 Weekly
  • Location: Nottingham NG5 9RW
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

Level 1 Award Progression 2 Media

  • Provider: Bournemouth & Poole College
  • Start date: 07 September 2020
  • Location: Poole
Find courses near you

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