OB technician

What does an OB-technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An OB-technician works with outdoor broadcasts for radio, TV, or digital media and is responsible for the technology related to image, sound, and communication on site. Tasks often include setting up and operating cameras, sound equipment, video mixers, and transmission systems, as well as troubleshooting and solving problems during live broadcasts. The environment varies and can involve both outdoor and indoor work, often under time pressure and requiring high technical accuracy. The profession demands good collaboration with other technicians, journalists, and production teams, especially during major events and live broadcasts where technical issues must be quickly addressed.

Salary development over time

The salary for OB-technicians has shown a clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK, then increased to 39 700 SEK in 2023 and reached 41 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 11.5% over three years, which is a relatively strong development compared to the average for similar technical professions. The reasons for this development include increased demand for technical skills in live broadcasts and digital events, as well as a need for specialized knowledge of new technology and digital transmission. Differences in salary development may also be linked to increased demands for flexibility and availability, as OB-technicians often work irregular hours and during intensive productions.

OB-technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Highest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: men earn 44 700 SEK, women earn 37 800 SEK (women earn 85% of what men do)
• Regional differences: No available data on specific regional salary differences

Education and qualifications

To work as an OB-technician, a vocational education in image and sound technology or equivalent post-secondary education in technology or media is usually required. Practical experience from productions and broadcasting technology is highly valuable, as are good knowledge of digital technology and networks. Many employers also view certifications and documented skills in relevant software systems and equipment positively.

• Post-secondary education: YH training in image and sound technology (2–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in broadcast technology, AV technology, or digital production
• Internship: Internships at TV stations, production companies, or media houses are recommended
• Prerequisites: Basic technical understanding and interest in IT and media
• Tips: Self-study on new technology and networking solutions provides a competitive advantage

Common benefits and compensations

OB-technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for working inconvenient hours, travel allowances, per diems when working in other locations, as well as access to modern technical equipment and training. Some employers also provide wellness allowances, insurance, and opportunities for skill development within new technologies and systems.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an OB-technician varies depending on region and employer, but demand is generally stable within TV, radio, and event production. Challenges in the profession mainly include rapid technological changes, continuous training requirements, and the need for flexibility during odd hours. Technical failures can have significant consequences during live broadcasts, demanding high stress tolerance and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the mobile nature of the work often involves long working days and extensive travel, which can be taxing over time.

Tips for those wanting to become an OB-technician

To succeed as an OB-technician, it is good to combine technical interest with a willingness to work practically under varying conditions. Precision is crucial when setting up and adjusting advanced equipment for live broadcasts, while stress tolerance helps in handling unexpected technical problems. Being communicative facilitates collaboration with colleagues and production teams, especially when quick decisions are needed. A genuine interest in new technology makes it easier to stay updated on the latest solutions in image and sound production. Flexibility is necessary as working days can often be long and hours irregular. Finally, problem-solving skills and the ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new systems are central qualities for thriving and developing in the profession.

Key facts about OB-technicians

• Education level: Post-secondary vocational training (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Varies, often outdoors and under time pressure
• Work form: Project-based and often in teams
• Demand: 620 job openings in the image and broadcast technician profession
• Special skills: Advanced image, sound, and broadcast technology

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an OB-technician, there are opportunities to take on more qualified roles, such as technical project manager, broadcast manager, or specialist in digital production and streaming. Some choose to further their education in technical management or train new technicians. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that there is limited data to assess the profession’s future prospects, but the number of job openings remains high. The shift towards digital broadcasting and increased demand for live events suggest that skilled OB-technicians will continue to be attractive in the job market.

Frequently asked questions about OB-technicians

• What does an OB-technician earn?
  - An OB-technician has an average salary of 41 700 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience, employer, and gender.
• What education is required to become an OB-technician?
  - Post-secondary vocational training in image and sound technology, often 2–3 years, plus practical experience from broadcasting production.
• What is the work environment like for OB-technicians?
  - The work takes place in various environments, both outdoors and indoors, often under time pressure and with demands for flexibility.
• Are there gender differences in salary for OB-technicians?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 44 700 SEK, while women earn 37 800 SEK, which means women earn approximately 85% of men's salaries.
• What career opportunities are available for an OB-technician?
  - After some years, opportunities include roles such as technical project manager, broadcast manager, or specialist in digital production.
• How high is the demand for OB-technicians?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings in the image and broadcast technician profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for OB-technicians?
  - The highest salary is 47,200 SEK/month and the lowest is 35,200 SEK/month, with variations depending on gender and employment type.