Unit 3 TV Job Roles Grid

Job Role Roles and Responsibilities (what they do and are in charge of)

Qualities Needed (skills and or qualifications)

Camera Operator (Studio/Outside Broadcast)

Is a senior role within television camera departments. The role's duties vary depending on the type of production. On high budget dramas or commercials, their main role is to support the Director.

You do not need a specific qualification to work in this role. Instead, you would usually learn the skills required through hands-on experience. Basic stills photography also provides a useful starting point in training for this role.

Script SupervisorIt is the Script Supervisor’s role to monitor whether it is possible for each filmed scene to be edited into a verbally and visually coherent sequence.

You don’t need a formal qualification to become a Script Supervisor. You will need good knowledge of the grammar of filmmaking and, in particular, of editing. This is essential in order that you can understand the craft of constructing scenes out of individual shots.

Make-Up and Hair Artist - Film & TV

Make-up and Hair Artists must be able to create make-ups and hairstyles to meet production requirements. They oversee make-up and hair continuity during filming and remove products as required.

You will need to achieve at least a level 2 vocational qualification or equivalent in media make-up and a level 2-3 NVQ in hairdressing, or the equivalent of two years’ experience.

DirectorDirectors are responsible for the look and sound of a production and its technical standards. They work closely with Producers and/or Writers, enhancing, refining and realising original ideas into finished programmes. They are responsible for ensuring that the final programme is faithful to the original concept. They must be able to push boundaries while remaining in total control of their material.

You won’t need a specific qualification to become a TV Director. However, a degree in a media-related, drama or specialist subject may give you a good grounding.

You will need wide experience in and knowledge of the production process. You will need to complete specialist training in single and multi-camera directing.

ResearcherOriginating or developing programme ideas, drawing on knowledge and understanding of industry requirements, and presenting findings to decision makersChecking facts and briefing writers who write scripts for on-screen presenters

You won’t need a specific qualification to become a TV Researcher. However, a degree in a media-related, drama or specialist subject may give you a good grounding.

GafferBeing responsible for all the practical aspects of lighting sets and locations

You must be a fully-qualified electrician to be a Gaffer, with relevant City & Guilds or electrical engineering qualifications at HND. Creative Skillset has developed a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) at Level 4 for Gaffers.

Boom OperatorControlling the long boom arm, manoeuvring it as close to the action as possible in order to achieve the best quality sound recording and Fitting radio microphones to actors and presenters.

You won’t need a qualification to be a TV Boom Operator. However it is vital to be able to show a strong interest in sound and an understanding of its physical properties. Courses are available throughout the UK, including City & Guilds qualifications, BTEC National Certificates and Diplomas, foundation degrees and first degrees, and postgraduate degrees and diplomas.