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How an audio / video technician can use AI, task by task

O*NET 27-4011.00: Audio and Video TechniciansMedian pay $58,100/year (BLS, May 2025)29 tasksJob Zone 3: Medium preparation

Set up, maintain, and dismantle audio and video equipment, such as microphones, sound speakers, connecting wires and cables, sound and mixing boards, video cameras, video monitors and servers, and related electronic equipment for live or recorded events, such as concerts, meetings, conventions, presentations, podcasts, news conferences, and sporting events.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Audio Technician, Audio Visual Specialist (AV Specialist), AV Tech (Audio Visual Technician), Media Technician, Operations Technician, Stagehand, Video Technician.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 10%AI-assist 37%Stays human 53%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 4 AI-ready, 13 AI-assist and 12 human-led tasks out of 29. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

🗓 Start here on Monday

The most frequent, most important tasks where AI can help right away.

  1. Notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.Coordinate & message · Monthly
  2. Compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.Handle the admin · Weekly
  3. Reserve audio-visual equipment and facilities, such as meeting rooms.Plan & schedule · Weekly

💪 Lean into these

Core tasks that stay human. These skills get more valuable as the routine work gets automated.

  1. Diagnose and resolve media system problems.Hands-on work · Weekly
  2. Direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.Lead people · Weekly
  3. Install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programs, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.Be there for people · Weekly

Skills to build & where you could move ↓

AI can draft these 4

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.

Weekly

AI handles forms, records and routine paperwork for you to verify.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 86% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

Forms, records, data entry, scheduling and routine paperwork are where AI saves the most time. It drafts, sorts, extracts and reformats while you verify.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.

Context: We use Microsoft Access and Blackboard software.
Source and target: [formats]
Quality needs: [describe]

List conversion settings and checks. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Format conversion

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you compress digitize, duplicate, and store audio (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Source and target] and [Quality needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Convert data among multiple digital or analog formats.. Also involves: Maintain records, documents, or other files..

Analyze and maintain data logs for audio-visual activities.

Monthly

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to analyze and maintain data logs for audio-visual activities.

Context: We use Microsoft Word and Adobe InDesign.
Broadcast: [describe]
Elements: [paste]

Draft the log. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Program log

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you analyze and maintain data logs.
Step 2Fill in [Broadcast] and [Elements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 2.9/5 · O*NET work activity: Maintain logs of production activities..

Organize and maintain compliance, license, and warranty information related to audio and video facilities.

Monthly

AI handles forms, records and routine paperwork for you to verify.

Show prompt & steps

Forms, records, data entry, scheduling and routine paperwork are where AI saves the most time. It drafts, sorts, extracts and reformats while you verify.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to organize and maintain compliance, license, and warranty information related to audio and video facilities.

Context: We use Microsoft Access and Blackboard software.
Project: [system, production, investigation]
Materials: [scripts, settings, notes]

Organize into a documentation structure with a table of contents and gaps. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Technical documentation pack

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you organize and maintain compliance.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Materials] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 3.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Compile technical information or documentation.. Also involves: Maintain records, documents, or other files..

Develop manuals, texts, workbooks, or related materials for use in conjunction with production materials or for training.

A few times a year

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 56% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to develop manuals, texts, workbooks, or related materials for use in conjunction with production materials or for training.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Subject: [property, layout, item]
Details: [paste notes]
Reader: [describe]

Write a clear description for the reader. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Informational write-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop manuals, texts and workbooks.
Step 2Fill in [Subject], [Details] and [Reader] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 2.9/5 · O*NET work activity: Write informational material..

AI can help you prep these 13

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.

Monthly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.

Context: We use Zoom and Cisco Webex.
Equipment: [describe]
Problem: [describe]

Draft a report to your supervisor. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: Equipment problem report

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you notify supervisors.
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Problem] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Notify others of equipment problems..

Reserve audio-visual equipment and facilities, such as meeting rooms.

Weekly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to reserve audio-visual equipment and facilities, such as meeting rooms.

Context: We use Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Excel; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Production or event: [describe]
Resources: [crew, equipment, budget]

Plan logistics, schedule and budget. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Production logistics plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you reserve audio-visual equipment and facilities (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Production or event] and [Resources] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Coordinate logistics for productions or events..

Determine formats, approaches, content, levels, and mediums to effectively meet objectives within budgetary constraints, using research, knowledge, and training.

Monthly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 45% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to determine formats, approaches, content, levels, and mediums to effectively meet objectives within budgetary constraints, using research, knowledge, and training.

Context: We use Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Excel; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Production: [scene, program, project]
Requirements: [camera, sound, timing, cast]

Draft a technical breakdown and schedule. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Production technical plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you determine formats, approaches and content.
Step 2Fill in [Production] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections. Recompute every total yourself.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Double-check every number. AI can make arithmetic and rounding mistakes.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Determine technical requirements of productions or projects..

Conduct training sessions on selection, use, and design of audio-visual materials and on operation of presentation equipment.

A few times a year

AI preps the materials; reading the room is you.

Show prompt & steps

AI preps the materials: lesson outlines, quizzes, examples, practice scenarios. Reading the room and coaching people is still you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to conduct training sessions on selection, use, and design of audio-visual materials and on operation of presentation equipment.

Context: We use Microsoft PowerPoint; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Process: [models, methods]
Staff: [describe]

Plan a demonstration and practice. Include timings, a realistic practice scenario from my work, and a short check for understanding with answers.

10-minute exercise: Process training

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct training sessions.
Step 2Fill in [Process] and [Staff] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Swap one AI example for a real story from your own work. Real stories are what people remember.

Check that every procedure in the material matches your workplace's actual standards.

Importance 3.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Train others on work processes..

Obtain and preview musical performance programs prior to events to become familiar with the order and approximate times of pieces.

Monthly

AI gives you a first-pass summary; you still read the key parts.

Show prompt & steps

AI can pull out the key points and questions to look for. Use it as a first pass, then look closely yourself.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to obtain and preview musical performance programs prior to events to become familiar with the order and approximate times of pieces.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
The piece: [title, composer, instrumentation, edition]
What I need from it: [learn it / conduct it / interpret a section]

Give me a study plan: the form section by section, key changes, tricky passages to isolate, and questions about interpretation worth deciding before rehearsal. Point me to what to listen for in reference recordings.

10-minute exercise: Map a piece before rehearsal

Step 1Choose the next piece you need to learn or prepare.
Step 2Fill in [The piece] and [What I need from it], then check the form breakdown against your score.
Step 3Spend 5 minutes on the first tricky passage it flags and note your interpretation decisions.

Remove names and private details before pasting, and check your employer's rules on what you can share with AI tools.

Importance 3.1/5 · O*NET work activity: Study details of musical compositions..

Inform users of audio and videotaping service policies and procedures.

Monthly

AI helps you prepare clearer wording and likely questions.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to prepare: simpler wording, analogies, likely questions and a one-page handout. The conversation itself is yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to inform users of audio and videotaping service policies and procedures.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Policy or update: [describe]
Audience: [staff, organizations]

Draft an announcement and talking points. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Policy communication

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you inform users of audio and videotaping service policies.
Step 2Fill in [Policy or update] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Communicate organizational policies and procedures.. Also involves: Provide technical information or assistance to public..

Maintain inventories of audio and videotapes and related supplies.

Monthly

AI preps the paperwork; approving and paying stay with you.

Show prompt & steps

AI can prep the paperwork, extract details from documents and make checklists. Approving, paying and verifying stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to maintain inventories of audio and videotapes and related supplies.

Context: We use Microsoft Access and Blackboard software.
Materials: [parts, supplies]
Data: [paste counts]

Organize inventory with reorder flags. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Materials inventory

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain inventories of audio and videotapes and related supplies.
Step 2Fill in [Materials] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.1/5 · O*NET work activity: Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products..

Locate and secure settings, properties, effects, and other production necessities.

Monthly

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to locate and secure settings, properties, effects, and other production necessities.

Context: We use Microsoft Teams and Microsoft Excel; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Production or event: [describe]
Resources: [crew, equipment, budget]

Plan logistics, schedule and budget. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Production logistics plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you locate and secure settings, properties and effects.
Step 2Fill in [Production or event] and [Resources] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.2/5 · O*NET work activity: Coordinate logistics for productions or events..

Meet with directors and senior members of camera crews to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, camera movements, and picture composition.

Monthly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to meet with directors and senior members of camera crews to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, camera movements, and picture composition.

Context: We use Zoom and Cisco Webex.
Project: [artwork, set, production]
Partners: [clients, lighting, sound]

Draft questions and specs to agree. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: Technical production details

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you meet with directors and senior members of camera crews. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Partners] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 3.2/5 · O*NET work activity: Collaborate with others to determine technical details of productions..

Edit videotapes by erasing and removing portions of programs and adding video or sound as required.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to edit videotapes by erasing and removing portions of programs and adding video or sound as required.

Context: We use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Footage or recording: [describe content, length]
Goal: [final length, audience, story]

Suggest a structure, cut list and pacing notes. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Edit plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you edit videotapes.
Step 2Fill in [Footage or recording] and [Goal] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Trust your eye for the final edit.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.3/5 · O*NET work activity: Edit audio or video recordings..

Plan and develop pre-production ideas into outlines, scripts, story boards, and graphics, using own ideas or specifications of assignments.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 40% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to plan and develop pre-production ideas into outlines, scripts, story boards, and graphics, using own ideas or specifications of assignments.

Context: We use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Piece: [drama, comedy, announcement, narration]
Audience and length: [describe]

Generate 10 premises or openings, then draft the strongest 2. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Script or creative piece

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you plan and develop pre-production ideas.
Step 2Fill in [Piece] and [Audience and length] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Make it yours: rewrite the best one in your own style.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Write material for artistic or entertainment purposes..

Perform narration of productions or present announcements.

Monthly

AI builds you an answer bank; exceptions and the human touch are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Build a personal answer bank with AI for the questions you get every day. In the moment, the human touch and the judgment about exceptions are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to perform narration of productions or present announcements.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Show or event: [describe]
Audience: [describe]

Write intros, transitions and ad-lib prompts. Keep answers to 2-3 sentences and flag any that depend on the situation.

10-minute exercise: Show introductions

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform narration of productions.
Step 2Fill in [Show or event] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the answers you'd actually use and tweak each one the first time you send it.

Don't paste customers' personal details into AI tools. Describe the situation instead.

Importance 3.0/5 · O*NET work activity: Inform viewers, listeners, or audiences..

Produce rough and finished graphics and graphic designs.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to produce rough and finished graphics and graphic designs.

Context: We use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Subject: [device, fixture, product]
Purpose: [manual, plan, marketing]

Suggest views, labels and style. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Technical illustration plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you produce rough and finished graphics and graphic designs.
Step 2Fill in [Subject] and [Purpose] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.3/5 · O*NET work activity: Draw detailed or technical illustrations..

These stay human 12

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Face-to-face discussions: every day · Using hands on tools and objects: more than half the time · Impact of decisions: important results · Contact with others: contact with others most of the time

Diagnose and resolve media system problems.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to diagnose and resolve media system problems.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Equipment: [audio, video]
Issues: [describe]

List cleaning and minor repair steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: AV equipment upkeep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you diagnose and resolve media system problems (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Issues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment..

Direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Production: [describe]
Crew: [departments]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Coordinating a production crew

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Production] and [Crew] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Coordinate activities of production personnel..

Install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programs, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.

Weekly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programs, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Program: [show, remote]
Equipment: [console, remote setup]

Give me a pre-show checklist, contingency plan and on-air phrases for problems. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: On-air or broadcast operation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Program] and [Equipment] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Rehearse the contingency phrases before going live.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment..

Switch sources of video input from one camera or studio to another, from film to live programming, or from network to local programming.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to switch sources of video input from one camera or studio to another, from film to live programming, or from network to local programming.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Show: [broadcast, event, DJ set]
Console: [sound, lighting, video]

List pre-show checks, cue list and backup plan. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Console show prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you switch sources of video input (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Show] and [Console] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run a full cue-to-cue check before doors.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video..

Perform minor repairs and routine cleaning of audio and video equipment.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to perform minor repairs and routine cleaning of audio and video equipment.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Equipment: [audio, video]
Issues: [describe]

List cleaning and minor repair steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: AV equipment upkeep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform minor repairs and routine cleaning of audio.
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Issues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment..

Record and edit audio material, such as movie soundtracks, using audio recording and editing equipment.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to record and edit audio material, such as movie soundtracks, using audio recording and editing equipment.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Session: [music, captioning]
Equipment: [mics, interface, software]

List setup, levels and backup steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Recording session prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you record and edit audio material.
Step 2Fill in [Session] and [Equipment] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Operate audio recording equipment.. Also involves: Edit audio or video recordings..

Mix and regulate sound inputs and feeds or coordinate audio feeds with television pictures.

Weekly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to mix and regulate sound inputs and feeds or coordinate audio feeds with television pictures.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Set or show: [event, broadcast]
Inputs: [channels, sources]

Make a channel list, levels plan and pre-show check. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Mix prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you mix and regulate sound inputs and feeds or coordinate audio feeds (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Set or show] and [Inputs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Mix sound inputs..

Monitor incoming and outgoing pictures and sound feeds to ensure quality and notify directors of any possible problems.

Weekly

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to monitor incoming and outgoing pictures and sound feeds to ensure quality and notify directors of any possible problems.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Output I monitor: [program feeds, audio, video, transmitters]
Standards: [station policy, regulations, technical specs]

Make a monitoring checklist: what to watch and listen for, normal ranges, what counts as a fault, and who to notify for each. Add a discrepancy log template.

10-minute exercise: Broadcast monitoring checklist

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you monitor incoming and outgoing pictures and sound feeds (this week).
Step 2Paste the key rules into [Standards] and compare the checklist with your station's procedures.
Step 3Use the discrepancy log for one shift and note what it helped you catch.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Monitor broadcasting operations to ensure proper functioning..

Control the lights and sound of events, such as live concerts, before and after performances, and during intermissions.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to control the lights and sound of events, such as live concerts, before and after performances, and during intermissions.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Show: [broadcast, event, DJ set]
Console: [sound, lighting, video]

List pre-show checks, cue list and backup plan. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Console show prep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you control the lights and sound of events.
Step 2Fill in [Show] and [Console] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Run a full cue-to-cue check before doors.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video..

Design layouts of audio and video equipment and perform upgrades and maintenance.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to design layouts of audio and video equipment and perform upgrades and maintenance.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Equipment: [audio, video]
Issues: [describe]

List cleaning and minor repair steps. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: AV equipment upkeep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you design layouts of audio and video equipment.
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Issues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment..

Construct and position properties, sets, lighting equipment, and other equipment.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to construct and position properties, sets, lighting equipment, and other equipment.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Object: [what I'm making]
Materials and methods: [describe]

List steps, tools and finishing. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Craft piece plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you construct and position properties and sets.
Step 2Fill in [Object] and [Materials and methods] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Make a small test of any new technique first.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Construct distinctive physical objects for artistic, functional, or commercial purposes.. Also involves: Set up still or video cameras or related equipment..

Obtain, set up, and load videotapes for scheduled productions or broadcasts.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to obtain, set up, and load videotapes for scheduled productions or broadcasts.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Production: [shoot, broadcast]
Equipment: [cameras, tapes, rigs]

List set-up, settings and pre-roll checks. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Camera set-up

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you obtain, set up.
Step 2Fill in [Production] and [Equipment] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Record a test clip and review it before going live.

Importance 3.3/5 · O*NET work activity: Set up still or video cameras or related equipment..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Operations Monitoringimportance 3.5/5
    Used in: Controlling Machines and Processes
  • Critical Thinkingimportance 3.5/5
    Used in: Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment
  • Complex Problem Solvingimportance 3.2/5
    Used in: Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment
  • Operation and Controlimportance 3.0/5
    Used in: Controlling Machines and Processes

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Active Listeningimportance 3.1/5
    Used in: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  • Writingimportance 3.1/5
    Used in: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 3.5/5
    Used in: Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  • Speakingimportance 3.1/5
    Used in: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

New tasks appearing in this job

O*NET has started tracking 2 new or updated tasks here: 0 AI-ready, 1 AI-assist, 1 stays human. They have no worker ratings yet, so they aren't counted in the bar above.

Operate drones for aerial videography and photography during live events or for pre-recorded material.

New in O*NET

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to operate drones for aerial videography and photography during live events or for pre-recorded material.

Context: The work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
Event: [lecture, fieldwork]
Purpose: [publication, research]

Plan shots and recording. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Event documentation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you operate drones.
Step 2Fill in [Event] and [Purpose] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

New O*NET task (05/2025). O*NET hasn't linked it to work activities yet, so its label comes from similar tasks, such as “Create data records for use in describing and analyzing social patterns and processes, using photography, videography, and audio recordings.” (Anthropologists and Archeologists), and was checked by hand. O*NET work activity: Document events or evidence, using photographic or audiovisual equipment.. Also involves: Analyze data to identify trends or relationships among variables.; Operate audio recording equipment..

Purchase audio or video equipment.

New in O*NET

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as an audio / video technician. Part of my job is to purchase audio or video equipment.

Context: We use Zoom and Adobe After Effects; the work draws on fine arts, communications and media and telecommunications.
My specific question about audio or video equipment: [what you need to find out]

Give me (1) a quick overview of what's usually involved, (2) the main options or factors to compare, (3) the most reliable sources to confirm it (journals, standards bodies or databases in fine arts), and (4) what people new to this usually get wrong. Say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Research brief: audio or video equipment

Step 1Write down one real question you'd normally spend an hour on to purchase audio or video equipment.
Step 2Put it in [what you need to find out] and run the prompt in an AI tool with web search.
Step 3Open two of the sources it gives (ideally ones you know from fine arts) and confirm the key claim before you use it.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

New O*NET task (08/2018). O*NET hasn't linked it to work activities yet, so it was labelled by hand.

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (43% of workers)

  • High school or less 25%
  • Certificate or some college 21%
  • Associate's 11%
  • Bachelor's 43%
  • On-the-job training: 3–6 months
  • Related experience: 1–2 years

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

Adobe After EffectsAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopCisco WebexLinuxMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft Teams

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