Technical Support Operator* (Video Tape Operations/Video Technical Operations, Camera Control Unit Operations, Studio Graphics Operations)
The Technical Support Operator works operates recording equipment to record video from various sources to fulfil requirements of studio production, for video tape and/or technical (VT) operations. He/She also controls the quality of video output from cameras in terms of color balance and lighting, for camera-control unit (CCU) operations. He prepares and displays on-screen graphics for live productions or outside broadcasting events using on-air graphics devices, for studio graphics operations. He may work across one or multiple areas of studio technical operations specializations which may include VT operations, CCU and studio graphics operations. The work involves high amount of concentration to deliver a smooth production, amidst high pressure. He operates in a fast-paced and dynamic environment where he requires high levels of responsiveness and the ability to react quickly under pressure. He is required to work shifts to accommodate the production requirements. He should be detail-oriented and be able to multi-task. He should be comfortable in the technical aspects of the areas he is responsible for. He should also be an effective communicator to be able to coordinate with multiple stakeholders.
Skills and Competencies
Technical Skills & Competencies
Generic Skills & Competencies
Critical Work Functions and Key Tasks
• Prepare a comprehensive set of requirements for technical support operations by collaborating with camera and direction teams
• Confirm specific technical instructions for special production requirements by coordinating with creative and technical leadership
• Perform functionality checks on all equipment before commencement of production
• Set-up recording equipment for recording from various sources as required
• Record videos from various sources as instructed by the production teams
• Convert recorded video to required format and technical parameters as required
• Digitise physical tapes as required for the purpose of archival on digital platforms
• Manage storage of digital files for recorded content as well as digitised archive materials
• Retrieve digital files for playout as per broadcast requirement
• Prepare reports regarding equipment failures and any other relevant VT issues
• Perform camera line-ups-matching camera parameters for colour and exposure
• Monitor cameras' video level via a waveform monitor for quality control in terms of luminance and chrominance levels
• Maintain output of camera parameters as per set standards and settings
• Control and balance lighting levels using appropriate equipment
• Perform routine maintenance of CCU equipment
• Prepare reports regarding CCU equipment, troubleshooting issues, failures and any other relevant CCU issues
• Coordinate availability of any new templates required for graphics operations from external vendors or internal teams
• Prepare for production by formatting graphic templates, organising data and preparing effects as per the production requirements
• Operate on-air graphics systems to produce suitable accurate graphics
• Update data in graphics templates as required to produce relevant studio graphics
• Execute playout of graphics in conjunction with the playout of the programme
• Conduct quality checks to ensure accuracy of content and consistency in layout and composition of the content
• Ensure the graphics guidelines are adhered to across the programme
• Stay updated on the rapidly changing on-air graphics technologies