Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Speak or read from scripted materials, such as news reports or commercial messages, on radio, television, or other communications media. May play and queue music, announce artist or title of performance, identify station, or interview guests.
Common Job Titles
- Anchor
- Announcer
- News Anchor
- Television News Anchor (TV News Anchor)
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform live on-air broadcasts using audio control consoles, mixing desks, and microphone equipment while maintaining precise timing.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret scripted news reports and commercial messages for radio and television audiences, adapting delivery to audience engagement and time constraints.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate current events and local information sources to select relevant content for broadcast segments and audience interest.Proficient
- MindsetIntegrate audience feedback and social perceptiveness when conducting live guest interviews and managing caller interactions.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain complex information and stories to broad audiences using clear language and compelling vocal presentation.Proficient
- MindsetEngage diverse audience members through on-air personality and vocal delivery while building rapport and maintaining professional broadcast standards.Developing
- KnowledgeApply communications and media principles when cueing music, announcing artist information, and identifying station branding during live broadcasts.Developing
- Hands-onOperate digital audio recorders and playback equipment to produce broadcast-quality content using software such as Pro Tools and Adobe Audition.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate time management and scheduling coordination when organizing playlists, commercial breaks, and programming segments within strict broadcast windows.Developing
- KnowledgeDemonstrate written content creation for broadcast scripts and promotional materials adhering to station style guidelines and FCC regulations.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
23,880
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $26,000. 25th percentile: U.S. $33,280. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,680. 75th percentile: U.S. $72,080. 90th percentile: U.S. $131,780. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $26,000 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $131,780 |
| Workers on average earn | $80,110 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Communications and Media4.9/5
- English Language4.7/5
- Computers and Electronics3.9/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.8/5
- Telecommunications3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- Zoom
Technology Skills
- Adobe Audition
- Audion Laboratories VoxPro
- Avid Technology Pro Tools
- Burli Software Burli Newsroom System
- Dalet Digital Media Systems Dalet Media Life
- Database software
- Enterprise application integration EAI software
- Program logging software
Tools & Equipment
- Audio control consoles
- Audio playback equipment
- Compact disk CD players
- Desktop computers
- Digital audio recorders
- Earpieces
- Headset microphones
- Headsets