A board operator assembles and operates audio, lighting, and visual equipment for radio, TV, and live shows. They troubleshoot and adjust equipment during transmissions, and may require formal education or training. The decline in availability of these positions is due to automation, but they are still needed for live shows and recording.
A board operator is a person who assembles and operates audio equipment, lighting equipment, and/or visual equipment used to record or broadcast radio programs, television programs, or live shows in a theater. He or she operates the control board(s) that allow adjustment of visual or audio components. The board operator must be able to configure the equipment and troubleshoot after installation. During transmissions, the operator must recognize necessary adjustments and make them in a timely manner, ensuring smooth transitions and seamless transmissions.
The level of education required to obtain a job as a board operator can vary depending on the setting in which the operator will be working. In some cases, no formal education is required, but a knowledge and understanding of the various components of an audio or visual system will be required. Many people interested in board operator positions participate in some form of training program, which may be offered at a college or university, or by an audio or visual company. In some cases, a candidate for the job can learn to use the equipment on their own by working for independent bands, artists or broadcasters to learn the skills.
Board operator positions have declined in availability as systems become more automated, although there are still many positions where human intuition is wanted or needed. At radio stations, a board operator can run the controls when a DJ is not present; this position is usually a minimum-wage or entry-level position and the operator is likely to work during off-peak hours such as overnight shifts. Live shows often require an onboard operator to be present so he can troubleshoot in real time and resolve unforeseen circumstances.
Recording commercials or broadcasts for later use can also be done by board operators. The operator will be responsible for producing a crisp recording as well as mixing and mastering the recording for use in broadcast setups. This means that the operator must set up microphones and other audio equipment, as well as video recording equipment where applicable. This can be a complex task, especially when recording a live musical performance with several artists playing at the same time; the operator will need to balance the audio signals to ensure each instrument or voice is heard clearly and in balance with other instruments.
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