GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF CLASS
The RADIO/TELEVISION COMMUNICATIONS TECHNICIAN uses basic knowledge of electronics theory to operate and perform
preventative maintenance or routine repairs on less complex radio and television equipment in a department which
produces and presents video and audio programs on a college or university campus and for the community.
DISTINGUISHING FEATURES
This is a single classification and not currently part of a series of classes.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Allocation of positions to this class will depend on the total work performed which may include one or a combination
of the duties or tasks listed below.
- Transmission Equipment Operation. Typical tasks: according to an hourly schedule, adjusts satellite
downlink receivers to appropriate polarity for receiving radio and television programs and switches to designated
transponders based on a program schedule from clients; according to an hourly schedule switches programs from playback
and production sources onto a microwave transmitter or cable modulator; prior to going on the air insures that
the broadcast radio transmitter is turned on and functioning to specifications, makes frequency and modulation
checks of the transmission, and calibrates and adjusts equipment as necessary; operates all formats of video and
audio tape recorders for playback and program duplications; insures that the program video and audio levels are
adjusted correctly prior to and during the transmission; maintain radio broadcast log according to Federal regulations
(FCC) and make calibrations to the transmitter as needed; may train and direct student employees in the setup and
operation of equipment (e.g., videotape recorder/player operations, switches, camera units etc.).
- Production Equipment Operation. Typical tasks: as directed by the television producer/director may assist
in production by lighting the studio or remote production sets by placing lights in the correct locations and setting
light intensity; setting the stage for production; operating a video camera in the studio or at remote locations;
operating the audio board, tape recorders, and other related audio equipment; adjusting the video and audio to
the right levels; serving as studio floor director during productions; assisting during rehearsals; and participating
in setting up and operation of television equipment for remote broadcasts.
- Equipment Maintenance. Typical tasks: performs scheduled preventive maintenance and routine maintenance
and repair on less complex equipment such as: audio equipment and recorders, video equipment and recorders, TV
monitors, and projectors; maintains inventory of spare and replacement parts for equipment.
- Miscellaneous. Typical tasks: serves as videotape librarian; coordinates TV programming with scheduled
playbacks; assists TV producer/director with editing on video tape recorder machine; may call vendors to order
parts needed to repair equipment; may assist higher level technicians in design of radio or television systems
and modification of equipment; may instruct staff regarding the technical operation of equipment.
RELATIONSHIPS WITH OTHERS
Employees in this class have regular in-person and telephone contact with faculty, staff, students, and staff
at other agencies to set up and schedule recordings, playbacks, and dubbings. Employees have occasional contact
with vendors to order parts and request information.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Employees in this class receive general supervision from a higher level technician or administrative supervisor
who makes work assignments and reviews work at weekly meetings or as needed in emergency situations. Informal discussions
concerning work procedures occur on a daily basis. Work performed must comply with FCC regulations, Federal copy
right laws, and internal operating procedures.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Positions are located in departments which produce and present video and audio programs on college and university
campuses throughout the State of Oregon. They require the willingness to lift heavy objects for short periods of
time. They require the willingness to travel to remote field locations during production.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Two years of television and/or radio continuity, traffic, or operations experience; OR
- An equivalent
combination of training and experience.
