How to become a broadcast announcers and radio disc jockey
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.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What broadcast announcers and radio disc jockeys do
- Read news flashes to inform audiences of important events.
- Announce musical selections, station breaks, commercials, or public service information, and accept requests from listening audience.
- Identify stations, and introduce or close shows, ad-libbing or using memorized or read scripts.
- Study background information to prepare for programs or interviews.
- Prepare and deliver news, sports, or weather reports, gathering and rewriting material so that it will convey required information and fit specific time slots.
- Record commercials for later broadcast.
Skills that matter most
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Writing
- Active Learning
- Monitoring
- Learning Strategies
Is broadcast announcers and radio disc jockey a good career?
On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 7% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- New York $81,310
- Maryland $74,480
- New Jersey $70,800
- Indiana $61,760
- Nevada $60,460
Broadcast Announcers and Radio Disc Jockeys salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.