Audio and Video Technician

Audio Visual Specialist (AV Specialist), AV Tech (Audio Visual Technician), Media Technician, Operations Technician
Job Description

An Audio and Video Technician is a professional responsible for setting up, operating, maintaining, and repairing equipment used for audio and video productions. This includes handling soundboards, microphones, video screens, projectors, and recording equipment, often for events, broadcasts, or studio productions.

Typical Preparation

Education: Postsecondary nondegree award

Years in related career: None

On-the-job training: Short-term

Outlook

Projected Growth: 4.7% (above average)

Annual job openings: 7 300

Direct AI exposure: 13% of tasks

Potential AI exposure: 48% of tasks

Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Audio and Video Recording Technicians. According to the wage tables, average income is $68K per year.
Bottom 10%Bottom 25%Median (average)Top 25%Top 10%
$44K
per year
$53K
per year
$68K
per year
$81K
per year
$95K
per year
Compared to other careers: Median is $3.35K above the national average.

What does an Audio and Video Technician do?

Intro video

(less than 2 minutes)

Duties

  • Sets up and operates audio and video equipment.
  • Conducts sound and image quality checks.
  • Troubleshoots and resolves technical issues.
  • Maintains and repairs AV equipment.
  • Coordinates with directors, producers, and other technical staff.

Work environment

Audio and Video Technicians typically work in various settings such as television and radio studios, concert halls, conference centers, theaters, and on film sets. The job can involve working indoors and outdoors, with variable hours including evenings and weekends depending on the nature of the production or event.

Typical Schedule

Areas of specialization

  • Live Sound Engineering: Focusing on managing sound for live events like concerts and conferences.
  • Broadcast Technician: Specializing in equipment for television and radio broadcasting.
  • Video Production: Handling video recording and editing for various productions.
  • Studio Technician: Working within a studio setting, managing both audio and video equipment.
  • Field Technician: Specializing in outdoor or on-location audio and video setups.

Description

Audio and Video Technicians are essential in the production of high-quality sound and visual experiences. They require a strong technical knowledge of audio and video equipment, an understanding of acoustics, and often, skills in editing and mixing. Technicians must be quick problem-solvers, able to address technical issues swiftly to avoid disruptions during live events or productions.

The role requires a combination of technical expertise and creativity. Technicians must keep up with the latest technology trends and be comfortable working with a variety of hardware and software. Good communication skills are vital, as they often work in teams and must understand the needs of clients, directors, or artists to achieve the desired audiovisual outcome.

This career can be very dynamic and rewarding, offering opportunities to work on diverse projects and events. It's ideal for those who enjoy technology, are passionate about audio and video production, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

You might make a good Audio and Video Technician if you are...

Pros:

  • Varied work environments and projects.
  • Opportunities to work with the latest technology in audio and video production.
  • Creative satisfaction in contributing to the production of events and media.

Cons:

  • Potentially irregular hours, with evening and weekend work common.
  • Physically demanding work, often involving setting up and moving heavy equipment.
  • The need for constant learning to keep up with technological advancements.

How to become an Audio and Video Technician

Typical education

Most Audio and Video Technicians require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary training in audiovisual technology, broadcasting, or a related field, often in the form of a certificate or associate degree that typically takes about two years to complete.

High school preparation

Courses:

  • Technical courses in electronics, computer science, or media production.
  • Art and design to develop a creative understanding of visual productions.
  • Physics or other sciences for a basic understanding of sound and light.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

  • Join or start an AV club at school.
  • Volunteer for school events that require sound and video setup.
  • Work on school theater productions or local community events.

Preparation after high school

  • Pursue an associate degree, diploma, or vocational training in audiovisual technology, broadcasting, or a related field.
  • Gain hands-on experience through internships, co-op placements, or part-time work in environments such as television stations, theatres, conference centres, or concert venues.
  • Consider professional certifications offered by organizations such as the Audio Engineering Society (AES) or the Society of Broadcast Engineers (SBE).
  • Build a portfolio of projects that demonstrates technical skills, adaptability, and experience with different types of equipment and production settings.

More resources

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