To create and project sound and visual images, an audio visual technician uses a variety of equipment. His job may require him to produce simultaneous sound and video broadcasts, or he may be required to produce only one of the two mediums. His responsibilities could be limited to either image transmission or image creation, or he could be expected to do both.
An audio visual technician can be hired by any company that regularly uses sound or projected images to train employees or make presentations to current or potential customers. He may be referred to as a projectionist, videographer, deejay, sound mixer, or stage hand, among other titles. An audio visual technician can be found in a wide variety of settings. The setting could be as simple as a classroom presentation or as complex as filming. He may be required to plan and implement all stages of production, or he may be asked to stage a third-party production.
Speakers bureaus, public relations firms, government agencies, academic institutions, and large corporations are all common employers of audio video technicians. Technicians working at these locations are frequently required to operate film, slide, and video equipment, as well as to coordinate visual displays with background music, sound effects, or oral remarks. In these environments, the ability to communicate easily with non-technical professionals is highly valued.
A person in this position is expected to have a thorough understanding of how audio and visual equipment components work both independently and in tandem. Because audio visual production often involves a large number of pieces of equipment, a thorough understanding of how the systems produce sounds and images is required to coordinate their functions and troubleshoot mechanical issues. It’s also advantageous to know how to manipulate the equipment to create unique sounds and images.
The equipment knowledge requirements for this position are increasing as technology advances. Basic knowledge of sound mixing, lighting, microphones, projectors, and video recorders is usually required. The technician may also require knowledge of how to use amplifiers and spotlights. Understanding the complexities of computer-based distance-learning classes, teleconferences, and webinars is usually beneficial.
To be successful in this position, you should have excellent organizational skills. The audio visual technician is frequently entrusted with valuable CD and DVD collections by clients and customers. As he edits and copies them to customer specifications, he is normally expected to keep them secure. His job requires him to keep track of his personal inventory of equipment and supplies.
This industry does not require a college diploma for entry-level positions. An associate’s degree in digital media or audio visual technology is frequently required for career advancement. A bachelor’s degree in communications, broadcasting, or journalism is usually required for further advancement.