Talent Directors

Audition and interview performers to select most appropriate talent for parts in stage, television, radio, or motion picture productions.

SOC: 27-2012.04

Common Job Titles

  • Artistic Director
  • Casting Agent
  • Casting Coordinator
  • Casting Director

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate performer auditions and interviews to select talent in stage, television, radio, and motion picture productions, using judgment of artistic suitability.
  • MindsetEngage with performers, agents, and production teams when establishing professional relationships across diverse creative stakeholders.
  • KnowledgeInterpret script requirements and character specifications using knowledge of fine arts and dramatic performance to identify casting needs.
  • MindsetIntegrate social perceptiveness with active listening when assessing performer suitability and interpersonal dynamics during auditions.
  • KnowledgeJustify casting decisions to directors, producers, and creative teams by articulating artistic and production considerations independently.
  • MindsetReconcile creative vision with practical production constraints when negotiating talent contracts and resolving casting conflicts.
  • MindsetAdvocate for diverse and underrepresented talent while balancing artistic merit with inclusive casting practices.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze performer portfolios, demo reels, and prior work samples using digital video equipment and database software to organize candidate information.
  • KnowledgeOrganize audition schedules and callbacks across multiple productions using appointment scheduling software and coordinating with personnel resources under time pressure.
  • KnowledgeApply knowledge of communications and media industry trends when sourcing emerging talent and adapting casting strategies to market demands.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Talent Directors (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

145,270

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,060. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,810. 50th percentile: U.S. $83,480. 75th percentile: U.S. $131,160. 90th percentile: U.S. $198,530. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$43,060
10% of workers earn the following or more$198,530
Workers on average earn$114,280

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • English Language4.2/5
  • Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
  • Communications and Media3.6/5
  • Personnel and Human Resources3.6/5
  • Administration and Management3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Amazon Web Services AWS software
  • Linux
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Word
  • Oracle Java
  • SAP software
  • UNIX

Technology Skills

  • AgencyPro
  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Blogging software
  • Database software
  • Email software
  • Microsoft operating system
  • Oracle JavaServer Pages JSP
  • Video content editing software
Tools & Technology: Technology Skills

Tools & Equipment

  • Computer data input scanners
  • Desktop computers
  • Digital video cameras
  • Digital video disk DVD players
  • Laser facsimile machines
  • Multi-line telephone systems
  • Personal computers
  • Tablet computers