Overview of the role
An autocue operator is a crucial member of the technical and editorial team during a live or pre-recorded show or outside broadcast, when talent or contributors need a script loaded onto an autocue to read on camera.
They are responsible for managing the autocue (or teleprompter) system to support presenters, contributors, and talent in delivering scripted content seamlessly and confidently.
Autocue operators work closely with the script supervisor, director, and producers to ensure scripts are updated, formatted, and scrolled accurately in real-time, in sync with the show’s timing and tone. Whether in a live OB truck or on a studio floor, they must be responsive, focused, and able to adapt to changes at a moment’s notice.
The role combines technical skill with editorial sensitivity and requires calm under pressure, strong communication, good spelling and an eye for detail.
This role is often a progression from a studio runner or production secretary, but can just be someone who’s enthusiastic and willing on a small production who shows an aptitude for it and gains on the job training/shadowing.
Core responsibilities
These core responsibilities are provided as a guide and are not exhaustive. The exact responsibilities in a particular job will vary depending on the scale, budget, genre of the production and whether the project is a series or a feature documentary.
- Set up and test the autocue equipment ahead of rehearsals and studio record or live transmission, liaising with engineers and technical crew as needed.
- Load, format, and align scripts in the autocue software in collaboration with the script supervisor or production team.
- Scroll the script live during the show, adjusting font size, spacing, speed and flow to match each presenter’s pace and delivery.
- Liaise with the producer/AP to ensure backup systems or printouts are available in case of technical failure or hardware issues.
- Update and make live changes to scripts during rehearsals or in real-time during the broadcast, ensuring seamless continuity.
- There are various forms of software and kit used by autocue operators, including Winplus, Tinkerlist, Cue Script Portaprompt and Autoscript, so a knowledge of one of all of these systems would be helpful.
- Note – a good way to get to know these systems would be to email the company and ask if it’s possible to shadow an operator at work.
- Many news programmes also use iNews or similar to build running orders and input script, allowing the producer to make changes themselves, while the operator addresses format and spelling.
- Collaborate with producers and script supervisors to input editorial amendments or restructured segments efficiently.
- Provide clear communication to presenters regarding script availability, layout, and cueing expectations.
- Be aware of programme running order changes and revise scripts accordingly within the autocue system.
- Assist with scripting logistics for remote presenters or OB setups with long-distance links or delayed feeds.
- Support rehearsals by scrolling through cue lines, testing camera framing, font size and reading speeds with talent and crew.
- Work closely with presenters cultivating trust and support.
- Adapt scroll speed and positioning to presenters’ preferred delivery style.
- Type in a clear way as per presenter requirements, including spellings and phonetic layout of certain words.
- Be discreet and attentive on set, adjusting the script live without distracting from performance or presentation.
- Handle last-minute changes calmly, quickly and confidently, allowing on-air talent to maintain professionalism.
- Ensure all on-camera contributors receive consistent support when reading from the autocue.
- Offer reassurance, if helpful, to nervous or first-time presenters using the autocue, building confidence and trust.
- Ensure autocue cues align precisely with vision and sound cues, aiding the director’s pacing of the broadcast.
- Flag missing or unclear sections of the script to editorial team in advance to avoid disruption during live playout.
- Liaise with relevant departments if needed regarding scripts for multiple presenters or camera locations, including handheld or Steadicam setups.
- Maintain focus during live shows to react quickly to improvisation, off-script remarks, or skipped sections.
- Support the smooth delivery of intros, outros, links, and live reads such as sponsorship or call-to-action segments.
- Print out hard copies of the script in the gallery when required.
- Keep digital and printed copies of updated scripts in line with production’s archiving or compliance needs.
- Label, organise, and version scripts clearly to ensure clarity across departments.
- Monitor system stability and report any issues with hardware or software immediately to tech support.
- Ensure autocue hardware is rigged and de-rigged safely and stored securely at the end of each shoot.
Skills
Check out role specific skills, transferable skills and attributes for the role of autocue operator.
- Technically confident: familiar with a range of autocue systems and software used in OB and studio environments.
- Calm: staying calm and keeping a clear head under pressure.
- Personable: able to cultivate good working relationships quickly, while gaining trust and giving support where necessary.
- Precise and focused: maintain tight control over scroll timing and formatting during fast-paced broadcasts.
- Fast typist: seems obvious, but is essential when working under time constraints with last minute changes.
- Strong communicator: works closely with presenters and producers to support script delivery in real time.
- Editorially aware: understands how script pacing, tone, and structure support overall storytelling.
- Adaptable: reacts quickly to live changes and handles unexpected shifts with composure.
- Clear communication: strong clear communication and a cool head with a sharp eye during critical, on-air moments.
- Good talkback/comms skills: communicating in a concise clear way across comms and prioritizing needs, while often listening to a number of voices at once.
- Time management: prepares scripts and systems ahead of schedule and adapts swiftly to revisions.
- Team player: integrates well with both technical and editorial departments.
- Attention to detail: identifies inconsistencies in scripts or formatting before they affect broadcast.
- Multitasking: handles live scrolling, editing and coordination with multiple departments simultaneously.
- Discretion: maintains confidentiality when working with sensitive show content or contributor dialogue.
- Reliable: always prepared, punctual, and trusted to deliver under pressure.
- Composed: stays calm and collected in high-pressure live situations.
- Supportive: acts as a steady, reassuring presence for presenters and production.
- Flexible: willing to adjust to presenter needs, editorial changes, or technical issues on the fly.
- Professional: maintains high standards of accuracy, focus, and conduct at all times.
- Discreet: handles private and unreleased material responsibly and respectfully.