TV Production Manager Job Description
TV production managers play an essential role in getting a television program on the air. Production managers are typically in charge of all of the technical aspects of the production, being largely responsible for what you see on your TV screen. Production managers must possess strong planning and organizational skills, and must be able to supervise the activities of several production crews such as those for camera, lighting and sound.
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Function
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TV production managers are ultimately responsible for getting a television program ready to air. She coordinates the technical aspects, such as acquiring the cameras and crews as well as sound and video equipment. She must make a schedule for the production of the program and ensure that the project costs don't exceed the budget.
Time Frame
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The work of a TV production manager often begins well before the program goes on the air. Not only must he create a schedule of production activities well in advance of the air date, he must also ensure that all necessary production staff is hired and in place in time for the shooting schedule. Depending on the type of program, his work could begin several months before the program is scheduled to hit the airwaves.
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Types
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The type of TV production manager required is a function of the type of the program. Television news production managers arrange for camera crews to cover live news events as well as the in-studio broadcast. Reality TV production managers send camera crews to follow people through daily business. Sports production managers coordinate production activities at live sporting events and require the ability to react to rapidly changing events.
Considerations
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Becoming a television production manager typically requires a four-year degree in television production or a related field such as broadcast journalism. A producer must be willing to spend several years working at television stations in smaller markets to "learn the ropes" before being able to land more lucrative jobs such as at a major network. Television producers must also feel comfortable supervising others and making tough decisions, such as hiring and firing personnel.
Potential
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According to PayScale.com, the average annual salary of TV production managers with one to four years of experience ranges from $30,371 to $53,755, as of 2010. Those with 20 or more years of experience can earn between $44,567 and $92,617 annually. A major factor in determining the salary is the size of the television market where production manager works.
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References
- Photo Credit television cameraman image by itsallgood from Fotolia.com
