How To Become A Radio Producer

A radio producer is responsible for developing audio content of broadcasts done on radio as well as those delivered via the Internet and other mobile platforms. From brainstorming and researching ideas for programs to choosing the right music for the show to selecting potential resource persons to managing logistics for out-of-studio shows to getting feedback of the audience after a program, you will be involved in the entire radio show production process.

As a radio producer, you need to possess leadership skills since the entire production team—from broadcasting assistants to presenters to engineers—will be looking to you for guidance and direction. In many cases, you will be responsible for managing the radio program’s commercial operations. You also need to have outstanding communication skills since you will be dealing with different types of people both within the radio station and outside in the production and continued operation of a radio show.

Why Become A Radio Producer

One of the reasons why one should consider a career as a radio producer is because of the challenge it gives. This is the career for those who thrive in a fast-paced environment of producing fresh broadcast content for radio and online platforms. Those who find satisfaction in generating ideas and actually putting it on air via a radio show will be very fulfilled in this career. It can also serve as a stepping stone for those who might eventually want to produce for movies and videos.

Radio Producer Work Environment

Radio producers generally work fulltime in the offices and studios of broadcasting companies. Because of the nature of the job in media, one’s schedule may be unpredictable and on certain days, extended. It is common to work on weekends, evenings and even holidays. If there are out-of-town shows and events, travel may be required.

Radio Producer Salary

Although the Occupational Employment and Wages report of the US Bureau of Labor Statistics does not give the specific salary of radio producers, it does reveal that producers and directors received a mean annual wage of $90,240 in May 2013. It should be noted that the figures could be more likely to describe producers and directors working in the motion picture and video industries. The agency revealed in a May 2012 report that of the top five industries that hired producers and directors, the radio broadcasting industry gave the lowest pay at $48,110 compared to the $94,110 received by those working in the motion picture and video industries.

Average Radio Producer Annual Salary

$90,770

The average annual salary for radio producers is $90,770 a year. Salaries start at $33,730 a year and go up to $164,290 a year.

Average Radio Producer Hourly Wage

$43.64

The average hourly wage for a radio producer is $43.64. Hourly wages are between $16.22 and $78.99 an hour.

Stats were based out of 117,520 employed radio producers in the United States.

Highest Paying States For Radio Producers

1. California $57.13 / hr $118,830 / yr
2. New York $55.84 / hr $116,160 / yr
3. New Jersey $46.87 / hr $97,490 / yr
4. District of Columbia $41.40 / hr $86,110 / yr
5. Maryland $38.77 / hr $80,630 / yr

Top Paying Cities For Radio Producers

1. Los Angeles, CA $61.61 / hr$128,150 / yr
2. New York, NY $57.81 / hr$120,240 / yr
3. Camden, NJ $54.53 / hr$113,430 / yr
4. San Francisco, CA $51.09 / hr$106,270 / yr
5. Newark, NJ $49.43 / hr$102,820 / yr

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

Radio Producer Career Outlook

The employment rate of producers and directors is expected to grow only at a meager 3 percent rate in the ten-year period covering 2012 to 2022 based on projections by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is slower than the average for all job types. Although radio companies and production firms are now experimenting with ways to deliver content through mobile and online platforms which could lead to more job opportunities for radio producers, these are still in its nascent stages and no clear projections can be made on them just yet.

Radio Producer Degree

Radio producers typically hold a degree in audio arts, communication arts or mass communication. In these programs, students are taught about media law, radio production, media arts –focused writing, audio engineering and electronic media. Completing an internship at a radio station is generally required for graduation.