Torchora
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Video Technician

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

Media ProductionAudiovisualLive EventsTechnology

🎯 Role Definition

Are you the wizard behind the curtain who makes visual magic happen? As a Video Technician, you are the cornerstone of our production team, responsible for bringing events to life through seamless video execution. You are a technical expert and a creative problem-solver, comfortable with everything from large-scale LED walls and multi-camera broadcasts to intimate corporate webcasts. This role requires a deep understanding of video signal flow, a passion for technology, and the composure to excel in the high-stakes environment of live production. You will collaborate with clients, producers, and other technical departments to ensure the visual elements of every project are executed to the highest standard.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • AV Technician (Generalist)
  • Production Assistant
  • Camera Operator

Advancement To:

  • Lead Video Technician / V1 (Video Engineer 1)
  • Technical Director
  • Video Engineer / Broadcast Engineer

Lateral Moves:

  • Audio Technician (A1/A2)
  • Lighting Technician / Designer

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Set up, configure, and operate a wide range of professional video equipment, including production switchers (e.g., Ross, Blackmagic), robotic and broadcast cameras, projectors, and large-format LED walls.
  • Engineer and manage complex video signal flows, including routing, scaling, and converting signals to ensure compatibility and integrity from source to display.
  • Serve as a Video Engineer (V1) or Technical Director (TD) during live events, executing camera switches, rolling in media, and managing on-screen graphics to deliver a polished final product.
  • Operate and align multi-projector blends and complex LED video walls, ensuring seamless and visually stunning large-format displays for high-impact events.
  • Manage and operate media servers and playback systems (e.g., PlaybackPro, Millumin, Resolume) for pre-produced video content, graphics, and lower-thirds.
  • Execute live streams and webcasts to various platforms (YouTube, Vimeo, corporate portals), configuring encoders and monitoring stream health to ensure a high-quality viewer experience.
  • Collaborate directly with clients, producers, and show callers during pre-production and show run to understand their vision and translate creative requirements into technical solutions.
  • Conduct thorough technical checks, rehearsals, and system tests prior to events to identify and proactively resolve any potential issues.
  • Operate video conferencing platforms (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex) and provide technical support for high-profile executive meetings, town halls, and hybrid events.
  • Read and interpret technical riders, schematics, and event diagrams to accurately prep, set up, and strike video systems according to project specifications.
  • Perform on-the-fly troubleshooting of video systems under the pressure of a live show environment, quickly identifying and resolving issues to prevent show interruptions.
  • Direct and guide camera operators on shot composition, framing, and movement during live productions to capture the best possible content.
  • Perform camera shading and color correction during multi-camera productions to ensure a consistent and professional look across all video sources.

Secondary Functions

  • Perform routine maintenance, firmware updates, and calibration of video equipment to ensure it remains in optimal working condition and ready for deployment.
  • Assist in the load-in and load-out of equipment, ensuring all gear is handled, packed, and transported safely and securely.
  • Maintain an accurate inventory of video equipment, cables, and accessories, tracking usage, repairs, and new acquisitions.
  • Stay current with emerging video technologies, industry trends, and best practices to recommend new equipment and workflows that can enhance production quality and efficiency.
  • Record and manage video assets from events, ensuring proper file naming conventions, archiving, and delivery to post-production teams or clients.
  • Provide excellent customer service and maintain a high level of professionalism when interacting with clients, presenters, and venue staff.
  • Ensure all video operations comply with safety standards, including proper cable management to prevent hazards, secure rigging of equipment, and awareness of electrical loads.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Video Switchers: Demonstrated proficiency with live production switchers such as Ross Carbonite/Ultrix, Blackmagic ATEM, and Grass Valley series.
  • LED Walls & Projection: Deep experience with setting up, mapping, and operating LED wall processors (Novastar, Brompton) and large-venue projectors (Barco, Christie), including image blending and warping.
  • Signal Flow & Management: Expert-level understanding of video signal types (SDI, HDMI, Fiber), routing, distribution, and conversion.
  • Camera Systems: Hands-on experience with professional broadcast cameras (Sony, Panasonic), PTZ cameras, and associated control systems (CCUs).
  • Media Servers: Competency with playback and presentation software/hardware like PlaybackPro, Millumin, and Keynote/PowerPoint.
  • Streaming & Encoding: Knowledge of streaming protocols (RTMP, SRT) and experience with encoders (AJA, Blackmagic Web Presenter) and software like OBS or vMix.
  • Video Engineering: Familiarity with engineering tools such as waveform monitors and vectorscopes for quality control and color accuracy.
  • AV over IP: Working knowledge of IP-based video transport protocols and network infrastructure for AV systems.

Soft Skills

  • Grace Under Pressure: Ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems in a fast-paced, live show environment with a calm and confident demeanor.
  • Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to setup, configuration, and show execution, ensuring every visual detail is perfect.
  • Team Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with other technical departments (audio, lighting, staging) and production staff to achieve a common goal.
  • Client-Facing Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills to clearly communicate technical concepts to non-technical clients and stakeholders.
  • Adaptability: Flexibility to handle last-minute changes and adapt to different venues, equipment, and event formats.
  • Proactive Problem-Solving: A forward-thinking mindset to anticipate potential issues and implement preventative measures.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or GED, supplemented by significant hands-on professional experience.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, or completion of a technical trade school program. Certifications like CTS (Certified Technology Specialist) are a plus.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Broadcast Technology
  • Media Production
  • Communications
  • Film and Video Production
  • Electronic Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 3-7 years of professional experience as a video technician in a live event, corporate, or broadcast environment.

Preferred: Demonstrable experience working on large-scale corporate events, trade shows, concerts, or broadcast productions. A portfolio or list of past projects showcasing experience with a variety of the technologies listed above is highly desirable.

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