Volunteer sound technician at a radio station in Argentina

What is the problem and how can volunteer sound technicians help?

Volunteer in Argentina

Unlike some developing nations, Argentina has a long history of radio broadcasting, having hosted rudimentary experiments with new technology as far back as 1910. Interest and expertise in the area has been growing ever since and today Argentina boasts numerous private stations broadcasting over AM, FM and shortwave frequencies. Projects Abroad Pro offer voluntary media jobs in Argentina with Serrana FM radio station, based in the town of Unquillo. This is a local station that broadcasts programmes throughout the Gran Cordoba area. While it caters for a large audience, the station has a small number of staff and lacks modern technical expertise in areas such as sound production. As a volunteer sound technician you will use your experience and training to offer advice and help to improve all aspects of the station’s production. Having someone with experience of working in professional radio will really help to improve the service provided by Serrana FM. We are committed to working with and improving this important service so that everyone in Gran Cordoba can benefit. We believe that you can help us achieve this.

What is my role as a sound technician in Argentina?

• Work with existing staff to produce daily radio broadcasts, including:
  • Setting up, testing and operating equipment.
  • Monitoring audio signals to detect sound-quality deviations or malfunctions.
  • Producing, adding and synchronising pre-recorded special sound effects during the broadcast, as required.
• Assess the work of existing staff and provide them with training in all aspects of modern sound production.
• Work with existing staff to produce a long-term Development Plan documenting future changes to the structure and production methods of the station in order to improve the quality of their shows.
• Organise and run training clinics for Projects Abroad volunteers working with the station (optional)
• Take on non media-related tasks and projects such as fund-raising

What skills or qualifications do I need?

Volunteer in Argentina

In order to ensure high standards and help the project progress you will need a Bachelors Degree in Sound Technology or a related subject as an absolute minimum. Ideally, a qualified technician on this project would also have at least two years’ experience of working in radio broadcast. We understand that qualifications are not always a prerequisite for gaining employment in the industry. Therefore, anyone with relevant experience will certainly be considered. It is important that you are confident in your ability to produce quality work and in your knowledge of modern production techniques. You will also require a good level of spoken Spanish. The person we have in mind would be confident, outgoing, friendly and creative, as well as having the patience required when working with less experienced staff and adapting to the challenges of a developing country and public health work abroad.

Even if you feel you do not possess the required skills or qualifications for this role, you can still help on the same project. Please visit our website for more information about volunteer journalism in Argentina.

What is unique about this project?

At Projects Abroad Pro we believe that volunteer placements can and should be about much more than one person helping the less fortunate. Cultural exchange has always been paramount on our projects with volunteers spending time in local communities, learning about a new culture and experiencing a different way of life. Our Skilled Volunteer Placements offer a unique chance for you to work with fellow professionals in your industry, sharing your ideas and learning to adapt your working methods to face a challenging new environment. Naturally, some of your new peers will be less experienced than you and this will provide an opportunity to pass on some of your specialised knowledge and training. However, in many cases you will meet talented, well-respected professionals happy to engage in lively debate and offering you the chance to learn and apply valuable new skills.

What guidance and support is provided?

Volunteer in Argentina

For many years now we have been offering unparalleled in-country support for our volunteers in over 500 projects worldwide. Every Projects Abroad Pro volunteer is covered by our comprehensive medical and travel insurance. Upon arrival in Argentina you will be collected at the airport by one of our team of staff and escorted to your new accommodation. All of our volunteers stay with local host families and you will be provided with plenty of food and clean drinking water. Our friendly and dedicated staff are on call 24 hours a day to ensure your safety and wellbeing and a member of the team will make frequent visits to check the standard of your accommodation. You will also be invited to social events such as parties and quizzes, giving you the chance to meet new volunteers and relax after work. Questions regarding any aspect of this placement are welcome and our UK office is more than happy to offer guidance and advice.