A panel operator, also known as a board operator, is responsible for operating a control panel during live or pre-recorded broadcasts, particularly in the radio industry. They manage equipment, timing, and inserts such as commercials and music, and must be able to think on their feet to resolve any issues that arise. After transmission, they must clean and store equipment and may work with the technical team to resolve any issues. They must also manage the egos of on-air talent.
A panel operator is anyone hired to operate any type of control panel. While the role is used across industries, it is most often used by anyone who administers a broadcast console during live or pre-recorded broadcasts. Also called a board operator, the term is most commonly used in the radio industry, where these individuals are a critical part of the support team for on-air talent, helping to keep broadcasts moving smoothly and effectively, keeping tasks on task. timing and managing other inserts for shows such as commercials, music and other special announcements.
While a radio panel operator performs many different tasks during a standard shift, their overall goal is to support the on-air talent they may actually be performing. Before managing all aspects of a live or recorded broadcast, the panel operator must ensure that the equipment is in good working order and that any material that has been pre-recorded is ready for broadcast. If there are problems with the equipment, he or she must ensure that they are corrected prior to transmission or find suitable replacements or workarounds.
Panel operators are responsible for most non-speaking functions in a broadcast performance. They often provide performers with cues related to the show’s time, telling the amount of time left in the broadcast or until the next commercial segment. In addition, a panel operator works on telephone line management; sets the quality and volume level of microphones and other sound effects; insert segments into programs such as news, weather, and traffic; and ensures the shows proceed on schedule
In addition to having the technical skills to operate equipment in a broadcast studio, panel operators must also be able to think on their own feet. Live broadcasts rarely proceed without problems and impediments; when a problem occurs, it is up to the panel operator to smooth it out by any means necessary. This requires a significant level of improvised skill, which is developed through long experience in dealing with problems in the air. Regardless of whether these issues involve a guest that has not yet appeared or a thread that is running for the allotted time, these are all the responsibility of the panel operator.
After transmission, the panel operator’s work is not completed. The panel must be turned towards the next operator and any used equipment must be cleaned and stored properly. Recorded material often needs to be archived. He or she may also need to work with the technical team to resolve any issues encountered before or during the broadcast.
Another common problem for panel operators is dealing with on-air talent. Performance artists’ egos are often difficult to manage, requiring calm demeanor in addition to effective persuasive communication skills. An operator must be ready and willing to absorb the stress of on-air talent in order to ensure that the program runs as expected.
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