Sound technician, broadcasting/film/video : Employers and vacancy sources

Sound technicians of different kinds are required in many different industries including broadcasting (radio or television), live performance (theatre, music, dance), advertising, music production and film. The range of potential employers is large and includes:

• the BBC ;
• independent television companies such as ITV , Channel 4 and Channel 5 , as well as the vast range of digital television channels;
• commercial and corporate production companies;
• specialist programme makers;
• music industry producers/studios;
• facilities houses - businesses that offer the broadcasting and entertainment industries facilities such as post-production services and audio correction;
• independent radio.

Sources of vacancies

• Search graduate jobs on this site.
• grapevinejobs
• Media Bugs
• Broadcast
• PACT Directory of Independent Producers
• UK Music Jobs
• National press.

Many sound technicians are freelancers and work across different sectors of the sound industry. When searching for employment, freelancers do not rely solely on advertised vacancies but make their own contacts through career networking and speculative applications. They attend media events and conventions to network with people in the industry and maintain/develop useful contacts.

Diary management services can be very useful for freelancers. These services put their clients forward for jobs, manage their diaries and ensure prospective employers are aware of their availability. They are often used as a resource for production companies and broadcasters looking for crew members. However, diary services can be very expensive and tend to specialise in different sectors of the industry. A comprehensive list of diary services can be found on the Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for Creative Media website.

Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.