Graduate Camera Assistant - Outside Broadcasts

About the Role

We are looking to train a Graduate Camera Assistant to work on and off site in all aspects of the camera department, supporting the large quantity of camera equipment used on OB (Outside Broadcast) operations.

Programme Length

This an 18 month’ development programme including including a secondment to another engineering department, giving you the opportunity to expand your knowledge and develop practical skills for an exciting and rewarding career in TV broadcasting. As a Graduate Trainee, you can expect to put all the theory you have learnt at university into practice within an innovative organisation that will put you at the forefront of new and exciting developments in broadcast technology, and prepare you for long-term career.

Progression

Our Graduate Camera Assistant role could be right for you if you are interested in pursuing one of the following careers:

• Camera Assistant
• Camera Guarantee
• Camera Operator

Learning Objectives & Responsibilities

Learning and developing your skills whilst participating in our Graduate Programme will also involve supporting:

• Ensuring that equipment is checked, prepared and loaded for upcoming jobs; ensuring that equipment is stored correctly after the job is completed, and that any faults or issues are entered into the fault ticketing system and followed up
• Assisting with the rigging and basic operation of cameras to enable the testing of equipment and new technologies in base and on-site; following guidance and exercising discretion and confidentiality when involved in such tests, as directed
• Assisting the camera department with operations on site, for Example: Rigging cameras, monitoring talkback to provide support to the camera department during transmission and providing relief camera operation
• Working under the support of the Lead Camera Guarantee to understand technical requirements and helping where possible in preparation for all upcoming projects
• Being the on-site person responsible for keeping the technical support vehicles (tenders) tidy; helping the Camera Guarantee to ensure that all camera equipment is back on the truck at the end of each job
• Developing skills and knowledge within the broadcast industry; keeping abreast of technological advancements and receiving training in areas where further knowledge is required
• Basic trouble shooting and fault fixing on OB cameras and lenses

Training

You will hit the ground running, working directly alongside our skilled engineers, getting hands-on experience on projects in outside broadcasts and studio productions for our major broadcast clients. After a full induction, we will also offer you a mix of internal and external training, and you will have access to your own mentor to support your career development.

About You

The successful candidate should be able to demonstrate the following (We will train you!):

• Up to Degree/BTEC level or equivalent.
• Good understanding of camera equipment in use at Timeline and the wider industry
• Good knowledge of fundamental camera assemblage, handling and control
• An in-depth knowledge of different types of camera mounts and grip equipment used in the broadcast industry, with an understanding of their purpose
• A basic understanding of the different types of broadcast lenses and the creative roles they can perform.
• An ability to assess a camera’s readiness to broadcast through the confident completion of a facilities (FACS) check.
• A rudimentary knowledge of other outside broadcast engineering areas, including cables and rigging, Vision/Racks Control, VT and ingest, audio and talkback systems and RF technologies
• An ability to identify, interpret and follow information presented in technical planning sheets
• Demonstrates a methodical approach to fault-finding and logical problem solving when dealing with arising issues
• Self-motivated, able to establish effective working relationships and willing to assist others
• Shows a flexible approach to the job and adapts to last minute changes to the operational requirements
• An awareness of the need to gain and retain the confidence of the Customer
• Working within all Timeline policies, working practices and Health and Safety guidelines
• Willing to work away from home for extended periods and travel extensively
• Clean UK driving license

Please note that this is a shift-based role and involves unsociable hours and weekend work.

Why join Timeline Television?

In addition to being part of a company that is at the forefront of cutting-edge broadcast technology, we offer a range of perks and benefits such as regular social events, the Cycle to Work scheme, private health care, a medical cashback scheme and a ‘legendary’ Christmas party!

You will have the opportunity to work on exciting projects that really matter, and we offer a variety of training and development opportunities.

We want to attract the broadest range of talented people to be part of the Timeline Team – whether that is working in our engineering or technology roles or being part of our non-technical teams. We believe the more diverse our organisation is the more we are reflecting society and ensuring we are selecting from the broadest talent pool.

We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from individuals, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socio-economic background, religion and/or belief.

You must be eligible to work in the UK without sponsorship to apply for this role.

Should your application be successful the assessment date will be held on 28th June 2023