Broadcast Technicians
O*NET 27-4012.00 · SOC 27-4012
Broadcast Technician is a risky career choice. Median pay is $60k a year with -3.1% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 1,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Operate transmitters to broadcast radio or television signals
- →Monitor signal strength and quality during live broadcasts
- →Adjust equipment settings to maintain broadcast standards
- →Perform routine maintenance on broadcast transmission equipment
- →Diagnose and repair technical issues during on-air programming
Education & How to Get In
Most Broadcast Technician positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Structured, offices, data centers, or remote
Independent, focused deep work with periodic team check-ins
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Broadcast Technician involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Broadcast Technician?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Broadcast Technician Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
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Job Outlook
Employment of Broadcast Technicians is projected to decline 3.1% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target
- ·27% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Broadcast Technician make?
The median Broadcast Technician earns $60k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Broadcast Technician jobs?
Our model puts Broadcast Technician at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 36% routine cognitive tasks, high automation target; 27% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Broadcast Technician a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 3.1% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 1,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Broadcast Technician?
Most Broadcast Technician roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Broadcast Technician?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Broadcast Technician career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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