Media technical director

Media technical directors oversee the technical aspects of radio, television and other media productions. They may supervise staff and make sure industry standards are met.

Also known as

Technical director, television floor manager, technical producer, lighting director, production director, studio director, location director

Work environment

  • Usually work irregular hours and may work early mornings, evenings and weekends
  • Usually work in offices, newsrooms, TV studios and radio stations and may travel locally and nationally
  • Need to be accurate, organised and work well under pressure

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$56K-$256K 56000

Typical tasks

  • Direct technical parts of broadcasts or shows
  • Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video
  • Plan technical needs for projects
  • Manage content for broadcasts or shows
  • Lead work of production team
  • Create graphics and animations for media
  • Monitor broadcasts
  • Inspect and test recording equipment
  • Train others to use production tools
  • Switch video sources during live shows

Outlook

Media technical direction is changing as screen, live-event and digital-content industries use virtual production, cloud-based workflows, high-quality streaming and increasingly automated equipment. In New Zealand, opportunities depend on production activity, events and investment in creative technology. International platforms and production standards influence local work. AI tools may speed up some technical tasks, but complex productions still need reliable technical coordination and oversight.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strong understanding of media production technology and workflows
  • Ability to plan, coordinate and troubleshoot technical systems
  • Confidence with video, audio, lighting, streaming or broadcast tools
  • Calm problem-solving during time-sensitive production issues
  • Clear communication with creative, technical and production teams
  • Strong focus on safety, quality and accurate technical planning

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

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