Job Ref #: eNCA177
Industry: PR/Communications/Journalism/Media And Promotions
Job Type: Permanent
Positions Available: 1

Job Description

The Audio Operator is responsible for delivering high-quality, technically accurate and consistent audio for live television broadcasts, outside broadcasts, on-location recordings and other production environments. The role operates and manages audio mixing systems, microphones, hybrid feeds, communication systems and related audio equipment to ensure clear, balanced and broadcast-ready sound.

Working closely with editorial, production and technical teams, the Audio Operator ensures audio requirements are planned, tested and executed effectively, responds promptly to changing production requirements and maintains compliance with applicable broadcast, technical, safety and organisational standards. The role contributes to seamless programme delivery by maintaining operational readiness, sound quality and technical reliability across all production environments.

 

Live Broadcast Audio Mixing

• Operate and manage audio mixing consoles for live and pre-recorded news bulletins and other broadcast productions.
• Configure fader strips, hybrid units, gain structures, auxiliary channels and other audio inputs in accordance with production requirements.
• Conduct required audio, sync, tone, colour bar, clapperboard, lip-sync and signal-generator tests before transmission.
• Balance microphones, music, effects, packages, hybrid feeds and external audio sources to achieve clear and consistent programme output.
• Coordinate audio cues with the Technical Director, Vision Mixer, Producer and other relevant production personnel.
• Monitor programme output continuously and adjust levels dynamically to prevent distortion, audio dropouts, dead air or other avoidable audio disruptions.
• Ensure audio is fully tested, operationally ready and compliant with required broadcast standards before going to air.

On-Location/Outside Broadcasts (OB)

• Set up, operate and monitor field audio systems for outside broadcasts, live events and on-location productions.
• Conduct comprehensive equipment checks before assignments, including microphones, transmitters, receivers, batteries, cabling and associated equipment.
• Configure microphones, frequencies, channel routing and auxiliary channels to meet production requirements.
• Conduct audio, sync, lip-sync and clapperboard tests with camera operators, Technical Directors and remote engineering teams before production.
• Set up and test hybrid, remote feed and communication systems to ensure reliable audio connectivity.
• Monitor and adjust audio levels throughout live outside broadcasts to maintain clarity, balance and consistency.
• Respond promptly to changing production requirements and resolve audio issues to minimise disruption to live coverage.

Audio Signal Management

• Monitor all active audio channels, programme outputs, hybrid feeds and external sources throughout production.
• Configure and adjust gain, EQ, auxiliary sends and other audio parameters to achieve required audio quality.
• Dynamically adjust audio levels in response to editorial, production and programme changes.
• Ensure audio sources are correctly routed and available for transmission or recording.
• Identify and address signal degradation, interference, distortion, dropouts and other audio quality issues promptly.
• Maintain consistent audio quality across different programme elements, contributors, locations and platforms.
• Conduct quality checks to ensure audio output meets established technical and broadcast requirements.

Equipment Management and Technical Maintenance

• Maintain studio and field audio equipment in operational and broadcast ready condition.
• Conduct routine equipment checks and ensure required equipment, spares and batteries are available before production.
• Report equipment faults, damage and servicing requirements promptly through the appropriate channels.
• Maintain accurate records and logs of technical faults, equipment issues and corrective actions.
• Coordinate with relevant technical support teams to facilitate timely repair, servicing and replacement of equipment.
• Ensure equipment is handled, stored, transported and used responsibly to minimise damage, loss and unnecessary downtime.
• Support the identification of equipment and technology requirements that may improve audio quality and operational efficiency.

Compliance and Safety & Operational Standards

• Comply consistently with applicable broadcast, technical, copyright, health and safety requirements and organisational policies.
• Ensure audio production practices and equipment operation meet established technical and operational standards.
• Apply approved procedures for the safe setup, operation, transportation and storage of audio equipment.
• Conduct appropriate equipment and operational checks to identify and mitigate potential safety or technical risks.
• Report incidents, hazards, technical failures and compliance concerns promptly through established procedures.
• Participate in required compliance, health and safety and technical training initiatives.
• Maintain professional and responsible working practices across studio, field and outside broadcast environments.

Stakeholder Engagement & Production Collaboration

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with Technical Directors, Producers, Executive Producers, Vision Mixers, Camera Operators, Engineers and other production stakeholders.
• Communicate audio requirements, technical limitations and operational changes clearly and within required timeframes.
• Collaborate with production and editorial teams to ensure audio requirements are understood and effectively implemented.
• Respond constructively to production changes, editorial requirements and technical direction during live and recorded productions.
• Participate actively in production planning, technical briefings and post production or post-broadcast discussions where required.
• Provide accurate technical feedback and recommendations to support improved production quality and operational performance.
• Prepare clear and accurate reports on significant technical issues, incidents, equipment faults and operational matters when required.

Personal Development

• Develop, implement and maintain an Individual Development Plan aligned with role requirements and professional objectives.
• Participate in relevant learning and development initiatives to strengthen technical, broadcast and production competencies.
• Maintain current knowledge of audio technology, broadcast standards, production techniques and industry developments.
• Participate in peer learning, coaching, mentoring and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
• Apply newly acquired knowledge and technical skills to improve audio quality and operational effectiveness.
• Seek and implement constructive feedback to improve technical and professional performance.
• Demonstrate an ongoing commitment to continuous learning, professional development and technical excellence.

Budget Compliance

• Comply with work rules, standards and methods. Take care to minimise waste.
• Comply consistently with organisational work practices, standards, financial controls and resource management requirements.
• Use audio equipment, consumables and other production resources responsibly and efficiently.
• Minimise unnecessary waste, damage, loss and avoidable expenditure.
• Ensure equipment and operational resources are used in accordance with approved procedures and requirements.
• Identify opportunities to improve resource utilisation and operational efficiency without compromising production quality.
• Support responsible planning and use of resources for studio, field and outside broadcast requirements.
• Contribute to the efficient delivery of production objectives within approved operational and financial parameters.

Job Requirements

Minimum Requirements

 

Qualifications

• National Senior Certificate (NQF Level 4) - Essential
• National Diploma in Sound Engineering, Audio Technology, Audio Production, Broadcasting or a related field (NQF Level 6) - Essential

 

Experience

• Broadcast audio mixing - Operational - 3 years - Essential

 

Competencies

• Drivers License - Code B - Essential

 

Technology Proficiency

• Microsoft Office Suite - Basic
• Audio Desk mixing - Essential

 

Language Proficiency

• English - Advanced

 

Technical / Job Specific Competencies

• Adaptability
• Building Strategic Working Relationships
• Initiating Action
• Managing Conflict
• Stress Tolerance