Because Certified Radio Operator and Certified Television Operator are operator certifications (rather than engineering certifications), they are administered in a unique way, through the study of a certification handbook and completion of a test based on that material.
SBE Certification is not an FCC requirement. Nevertheless, it is evidence of an individual's qualifications to serve as an operator at a broadcast station and will certainly be useful when seeking employment or advancement. Each radio and television station has its own policies and procedures, and many have a written station manual. However, the FCC Rules and basic operator procedures apply to all stations. The Certification Handbook for Radio Operators and the Television Operator's Certification Handbook fill the needs of broadcast stations and operators today.
The SBE Radio and Television Operator Certifications are a great way to demonstrate to a prospective employer that you have acquired the basic knowledge to operate a radio or television station and comply with FCC Rules and Regulations. SBE member engineers are encouraged to help promising newcomers by giving advice and directions