OB Assistant

What does an OB assistant do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An OB assistant works within the field of image and broadcast technology, with a particular focus on outdoor productions (OB stands for Outside Broadcast). The role involves assisting technicians and producers during live broadcasts and recordings outside the regular studio environment, such as at sports events, concerts, or large-scale events. Tasks may include rigging technical equipment, cable management, supporting camera crews, and troubleshooting video and audio systems. The work often takes place in temporary environments and requires flexibility, quick problem-solving, and the ability to work independently and in teams. Working hours are often irregular and may include evenings, nights, and weekends—especially when broadcasts occur outside of regular office hours.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for OB assistants has shown a steady increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, rising to 39 700 SEK in 2023 and reaching 41 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 11.5% over three years, which is a relatively strong trend compared to many other technical professions. This development can be explained by increased demand for live broadcasts, technical specialization, and a greater need for flexible staffing during major productions. At the same time, technological advancements and new requirements for digital broadcasting skills have contributed to raising salary levels. The salary trend indicates that the profession is highly valued in the job market, especially for those with experience and specialized skills in image and sound technology.

OB Assistant Salary – Complete Overview

• Average Salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest Salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, post-secondary education)
• Highest Salary: 47,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee)
• Hourly Wage: 251 SEK
• Gender Differences: Men earn 44 700 SEK, women 37 800 SEK (85% of men's salary)
• Regional Differences: Specific regional salary differences are not available, but variations may occur depending on production companies and location.

Education and Qualifications

To work as an OB assistant, a high school diploma in technology, media, or IT is usually recommended, often supplemented with post-secondary studies in image and sound production. Practical experience with technical equipment, preferably through internships or trainee programs, is highly valuable. Formal requirements may vary between employers, but technical knowledge and the ability to work under pressure are central qualities for the profession.

• High School Diploma: Technical program, Artistic program with media specialization (3 years)
• Post-secondary Education: YH (Vocational) training or university studies in image and sound production (1–3 years)
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions in TV, radio, or event production
• Courses/Certifications: Specialized courses in video mixing, sound engineering, or broadcasting systems
• Prerequisites: Good technical understanding and computer skills

Common Benefits and Compensation

OB assistants are often offered benefits such as additional pay for unsocial hours, per diems for travel, access to technical equipment, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also provide insurance, wellness allowances, and opportunities for skill development within modern broadcasting technology.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for OB assistant roles can vary depending on season, location, and the size of productions. Larger events and TV productions attract many applicants with the right technical background, while working hours can be irregular and demanding. One of the biggest challenges is staying updated with rapid technological developments in broadcasting. Flexibility, resilience, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure are crucial for long-term success in the profession. Since work periods can be intensive, good physical endurance and teamwork skills are also important.

Tips for Aspiring OB Assistants

To succeed as an OB assistant, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with high flexibility and service-mindedness. Gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work at events provides valuable contacts and understanding of the work environment. Attention to detail is important, as equipment errors can quickly impact the entire production, so developing an eye for details is an advantage. Being communicative and clear under stressful situations facilitates teamwork. Additionally, initiative and curiosity about learning new technical systems quickly are helpful. Keeping up with industry developments and further education in image and sound technology enhances employment and advancement opportunities. Finally, reliability and punctuality are essential qualities since many productions depend on timely delivery.

Key Facts About OB Assistants

• Education Level: High school diploma, often supplemented with post-secondary studies
• Work Environment: Mobile production environments at events and live broadcasts
• Common Employment Type: Hourly or project-based employment
• Demand: 620 available jobs within the image and broadcast technology field
• Gender Differences: Women earn 85% of men's salary

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years as an OB assistant, opportunities open to advance into roles such as video technician, sound technician, broadcast producer, or technical project manager within TV and event production. Some choose to specialize in specific technical areas or move on to larger production companies and international assignments. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, there are no exact predictions for OB assistants, but within the field of image and broadcast technology, 620 jobs are reported. The demand is considered stable, especially for large events and live broadcasts, although automation and new technology may influence parts of the profession in the future. The industry’s shift towards digital and hybrid broadcasts also creates new career opportunities for those with the right skills.

Frequently Asked Questions about OB Assistants

• What does an OB assistant earn?
  - An OB assistant has an average salary of 41 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 251 SEK.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn an average of 44 700 SEK, while women earn 37 800 SEK (85% of men's salary).
• What education is required to become an OB assistant?
  - A high school diploma with a focus on technology or media is recommended, preferably supplemented with post-secondary studies in image and sound technology.
• What does working as an OB assistant involve?
  - Tasks include technical support during outdoor productions, equipment setup, and troubleshooting during live broadcasts.
• What is the job market like for OB assistants?
  - There are 620 available jobs in the field of image and broadcast technology, but no specific forecast for OB assistants is available.
• What are the common benefits?
  - Additional pay for unsocial hours, per diems, insurance, and opportunities for further training are common benefits.
• Are there opportunities for advancement?
  - Yes, after a few years of experience, one can advance to roles such as technician, project manager, or producer within production.