The Television VT Operator

The job of the VT (video tape) operator is to record and playback video material on a tape machine, disk recorder or computer-based system. This can be in a live production setting or post-production editing session.

In some situations this job can be as easy as pressing record, rewind and play. In other situations it can be very demanding, requiring a high level of coordination, fast hands and quick thinking.

The VT operator is answerable to the director or (in larger productions) the VT director.

For more information see VT Operations.

Required Skills

The VT operator must:

• Have a good working knowledge of video recording systems.
• Be able to use a variety of record/playback systems, including edit controllers, jog/shuttle dials, editing software, etc.
• Understand the program requirements related to their position.
• Be able to think and act quickly.