Television and Radio Repairer
Television and radio repairers are skilled professionals who specialize in maintaining and repairing electronic devices, including televisions, radios, stereos, and home theater systems. They often work for cable and internet providers, electronics retail stores, or service centers, and may also operate independently to troubleshoot and fix malfunctions. The job typically involves both in-shop repairs and fieldwork, where technicians travel to client locations, such as homes and businesses, to perform necessary repairs.
Individuals interested in this career usually possess a strong background in electronics and enjoy hands-on work. Good communication skills are essential, as repairers frequently interact with clients and collaborate with colleagues. While a high school diploma is generally required, many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education in electronics repair from vocational or technical schools, which provide both theoretical knowledge and practical training. The median annual earnings for television and radio repairers are approximately $67,220, with a job outlook reflecting little or no change in employment opportunities in the near future. Overall, this field offers a blend of technical expertise and customer service, appealing to those who enjoy solving problems and working with technology.
Television and Radio Repairer
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Manufacturing
Interests: Electrical repair, electronics, technology, multimedia and electronic systems, customer service
Earnings (Yearly Median): $67,220 per year $32.32 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 1% (Little or no change)
Related Work Experience: Though not required, some begin working in a machine or electrical workshop.
Overview
Sphere of Work. Television and radio repairers maintain and repair televisions, radios, and relevant components, such as stereos and home theater systems. Repairers work for cable and Internet providers, electronics retail stores, service centers, or directly for manufacturers, examining televisions and radios for malfunctions and repairing them accordingly. They may bring malfunctioning devices to a repair shop if significant repair is required. Some repairers work in the sales of television and radio equipment as well.
Work Environment. Repairers work in repair shops as well as in the field. Repair shops are well-lit, so workers can see the components they are working on. When workers are called out to repair jobs in the field, they can find themselves in various locations, including houses, hospitals, or office buildings. During a repair, a technician may perform physical tasks such as bending, kneeling, reaching, and lifting. Technicians often work with electricity, so adherence to safety standards is essential.
Occupation Interest. A career in television and radio repair attracts individuals with a strong background in electronics who enjoy working with their hands. Television and radio repairers are good at problem-solving and enjoy learning and using new technologies. Workers should have good communication skills to collaborate with clients and other repairers.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Television and radio repairers apply their skills and knowledge to keep television and audio equipment operational. Some clients may bring their television or radio equipment to repair shops to have them serviced. Technicians use many tools and often collaborate with colleagues on more complex jobs.
When larger equipment not easily transported breaks down, field repairers travel to a client’s home or business to perform repairs. Once the worker has assessed the problem, they decide whether the repair can be done on location or if the job needs to be brought to a repair shop.
When working with broken equipment, repairers first troubleshoot for simple solutions. Sometimes, equipment merely requires cleaning or minor repairs. If initial troubleshooting proves unsuccessful, the repairer refers to the equipment manufacturers’ specifications on how to diagnose a problem. Manufacturers typically provide a list of troubleshooting items to perform on malfunctioning equipment.
To diagnose problems, repairers use a variety of essential hand tools. They also use specialized equipment, such as multimeters to measure voltage and signal generators to produce test signals.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Television and radio repairers work with cable and Internet providers, in electronics repair shops, and at retail outlets. Field repairers will travel to client locations, spending portions of the workday in a vehicle. Client locations include office buildings, homes, hospitals, and industrial complexes.
Human Environment. Repairers work alongside other workers and supervisors in repair shops. Field repairers regularly communicate with clients to ensure jobs are performed correctly. Sometimes, repairers will communicate with equipment manufacturers to inquire about specific equipment.
Technological Environment. Television and radio repairers utilize many basic hand tools and more complex, specialized tools. Hand tools used include screwdrivers, wire cutters, and soldering irons. Specialized tools include multimeters, signal generators, and color bar and dot generators to produce television test patterns.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Most employers favor applicants with a high school diploma or the equivalent. Several introductory high school courses can help prepare a student for a television and radio repair career, including computer science, mathematics, mechanical drawing, and electronics courses.
Postsecondary. Many employers look for applicants who have completed postsecondary programs at technical or vocational schools. These schools typically provide a two-year associate’s degree. Vocational schools offer programs and training courses in television- and radio-related fields, including electronics repair. These programs include formal classroom instruction and hands-on training. Less on-the-job training is required for applicants who complete a training program, so employers are more likely to hire someone who has completed a postsecondary education program.
Related Occupations
− Electronic Equipment Repairer
− Home Entertainment Equipment Repairer
− Telecommunications Equipment Repairer
Bibliography
"Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers." Occupational Outlook Handbook. Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/installation-maintenance-and-repair/electrical-and-electronics-installers-and-repairers.htm. Accessed 28 Aug. 2024.