This document provides information on the roles and responsibilities of several jobs in the television industry, including camera operator, script supervisor, makeup artist, director, researcher, gaffer, and boom operator. For each role, it lists the typical responsibilities and qualities or skills needed to perform the job successfully. Camera operators must have excellent technical skills to operate cameras accurately. Script supervisors ensure continuity and visual coherence. Makeup artists are responsible for maintaining consistent looks for actors. Directors creatively realize creative visions. Researchers develop program ideas and carry out research. Gaffers organize lighting equipment. Boom operators precisely position microphones near actors without obstructing shots. Skills like technical expertise, communication, attention to detail, and physical ability are important across several

1. 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)
This is a senior role within camera departments in
television but these responsibilities vary depending
on the type of production
Ability to carry out instructions with great
accuracy
Good IT skills excellent hand to eye
co-ordintation
Excellent communication good colour vision
Script Supervisor
They make sure that the films and dramas make
continuous verbal and visual sense
Good sense of visual composition
Diplomacy and sensitivity when working with
artists
Make-Up and Hair
Artist - Film & TV
They work on principal and supporting Actors, and
depending on the schedule, usually look after several
Actors throughout the shoot. They are responsible for
maintaining the continuity of their Artists' "look".
They must also carry out full risk assessments, and
develop procedures to control risks.
hairdressing skills including: cutting, waving,
straightening, non-permanent colouring, setting,
applying extensions, braiding, shaving; wig
setting and dressing; and applying, dressing and
applying facial hair.
Make-up skills.
All Make-up and Hair Artists should have
achieved 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.
Director
Directors work closely with Producers and/or Writers,
embellishing, refining and ultimately realising original
ideas into finished programmes.
Directors must be able to creatively translate
Writers', Producers' and other originators' vision
into a visually and coherent, marketable,
entertaining or informative programme.
There are no specific educational or training

2. qualifications for the role of Director However a
degree in a media related, drama specialist
subject may provide some useful background
information.
Researcher
Researchers may be briefed by Producers or other
decision makers about programme ideas and carry
out further development. they may produce original
programme ideas for consideration by Producers,
broadcasters, production companies, or other
decision makers.
excellent verbal and written communication
skills;
excellent presentation skills;
advanced analytical skills;
precise attention to detail and methodical
approach to work;
ability to conceptualise ideas;
ability to think visually;
initiative and problem solving skills;
endless energy and determination;
advanced IT skills;
Gaffer
Gaffers subsequently produce a list of the required
equipment, e.g. lamps, cables, generators, and
request quotations from Lighting Companies for
consideration by the Lighting Director or Production
Company.
a wide knowledge of television lighting and
associated equipment;
an understanding of all aspects of television
production;
knowledge of electrical theory and practice;
excellent IT skills;
adaptability and resourcefulness before and
during the production process;
a logical and fast approach to problem solving;
good communication, interpersonal and team
skills;
patience and self-discipline
willingness to work long and irregular hours;
ability to undertake physically demanding tasks;

3. ability to concentrate for long periods of time
and to pay attention to detail;
good colour vision;
Boom Operator
The Boom Operator's main responsibility is to control
the long boom arm, either hand–held or on wheels,
with the microphone attached, manoeuvring it as
close to the action as possible without getting it in
shot.
excellent hearing, concentration and attention
to detail;
good knowledge of microphone characteristics,
lighting techniques and camera lens angles;
good spatial awareness and hand/eye co–
ordination;
physical strength, excellent balance, and agility;
excellent timing for anticipating lines and
moving the boom accordingly;
good memory for dialogue;
good communication, negotiation, interpersonal
and team skills;
diplomacy and sensitivity when working with
artistes and crew members;
patience, self–discipline and reliability