Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys
Broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys speak from scripts or ad-lib on radio, television, and digital platforms. They introduce music, deliver news and commercial messages, conduct interviews, and maintain station identity. Most work in radio stations, television networks, or streaming services.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves preparing scripts, cueing music tracks, monitoring broadcast timing, and delivering live or recorded announcements. Radio disc jockeys may host shows during assigned time slots, taking listener calls and requests. Announcers review content before airtime, coordinate with producers and engineers, and may conduct interviews with guests or cover events. Station identification, weather updates, and ad reads occur regularly throughout shifts.
Who this work suits
Holland code AES. Artistic work is creating and designing, with room for self-expression. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
This work suits people who enjoy performing and communicating with audiences (artistic interest) and who want to build careers in media business (enterprising interest). Success typically requires strong voice quality, quick thinking under pressure, and the ability to engage listeners consistently.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York | $46,060 | $81,310 | $205,730 | 1,460 |
| Maryland | $55,950 | $74,480 | $110,140 | 290 |
| New Jersey | $50,640 | $70,800 | $172,670 | 190 |
| Indiana | $42,600 | $61,760 | $82,970 | 1,040 |
| Nevada | $44,730 | $60,460 | $135,480 | 160 |
| Massachusetts | $45,730 | $60,200 | $108,360 | 280 |
| Florida | $40,450 | $56,360 | $97,150 | 990 |
| Rhode Island | $38,580 | $55,110 | $76,920 | 90 |
| Pennsylvania | $31,810 | $52,080 | $76,230 | 830 |
| Hawaii | $39,220 | $51,030 | $64,940 | 140 |
| Colorado | $37,440 | $50,660 | $84,150 | 310 |
| Texas | $35,540 | $49,050 | $84,600 | 960 |
All 47 states
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Broadcast Meteorologist (CBM) — American Meteorological Society
- Amateur Radio Service Operator License - General Class — Federal Communications Commission
- Amateur Radio Service Operator License - Technician Class — Federal Communications Commission
- Amateur Radio Service Operator License - Amateur Extra Class — Federal Communications Commission
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-3011.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.