Schools For Me» Media Arts

Film and Video Editors

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:17:18 +0000

Film and video editors put together into a cohesive story the footage that the directors shoot. Editors may work on motion pictures, television shows, commercials, music videos, news stories, or any kind of filmed entertainment. Sample job titles include: editor, news editor, video editor, videographer, news video editor, news videotape editor, non-linear editor, multimedia artist, production manager, and tape editor. Now virtually all editing is done digitally. Even when something is shot on film or tape it is converted to a digital format for editing and then usually converted back to the original medium.

Average Salary:

$50,560

Average Hours (per week):

Hours of work and working schedules for editors vary considerably. Those employed by television and cable networks or advertising agencies may work long hours to meet production schedules. ENG (electronic news gathering) operators often work long, irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice. Editors working in motion picture production also may work long, irregular hours.

Union:

Editors in many markets are covered by NABET and the International Cinematographers Guild.

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

Editors usually acquire their skills through formal post-secondary training at film schools, colleges, universities, or photographic institutes. A bachelor’s degree is required for most positions. Work as an editor’s assistant is valuable in learning the trade. Editors must be both extremely organized and very creative. They usually have a complete understanding of filmmaking as well as a good understanding of all of the post-production techniques such as sound editing and mixing, color correcting, special effects, and similar specialties.

Strongest Market(s):

In 2008, there were 25,500 jobs as editors. Over 37 percent of the salaried editors work in the motion picture and video industry while 18 percent work in television broadcasting. Most editors work in large metropolitan areas.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $11.85 to $15.90 per hour.

Top Salary:

$112,410

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be average over the next decade, at 7 percent to 13 percent.

Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Motion Picture

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:16:37 +0000

Camera operators work television, video, or motion picture cameras to photograph images or scenes for various purposes, such as TV broadcasts, advertising, video production, or motion pictures. Sample job titles include: camera operator, photojournalist, television news photographer, production assistant, videographer, master control operator (MCO), cameraman, production technician, studio camera operator, and floor director. As with the still camera, those who know how to properly use a motion camera can work in any number of industries, from television news to sitcoms, from sports to movies.

Average Salary:

$41,670

Average Hours (per week):

Hours of work and working schedules for camera operators vary considerably. Those employed by television and cable networks or advertising agencies may work long hours to meet production schedules. ENG (electronic news gathering) operators often work long, irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice. Camera operators working in motion picture production also may work long, irregular hours.

Union:

Roughly 11 percent of all camera operators are union members, primarily in larger markets covered by NABET, IBEW, IATSE, and AFTRA contracts.

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

Television, video, and motion picture camera operators usually acquire their skills through formal training at film schools, colleges, universities, or photographic institutes. A bachelor’s degree is required for most positions. Employers usually seek applicants with a good eye, imagination, and creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of how the camera operates.

Strongest Market(s):

Most medium-sized cities have television stations that need camera operators, and the competition may be far less than in the major cities. Even though the competition is fierce, the largest cities are where most of the television production is done.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $10.44 to $13.95 per hour.

Top Salary:

$79,440

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be average over the next decade at 7 to 13 percent.

Photojournalist

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:15:36 +0000

Photojournalists document people and events, usually for news stories, but sometimes also for feature stories. Though photojournalists are usually still photographers, videographers, documentary filmmakers, and various video and film artists may also consider themselves to be photojournalists. Many specialize in specific areas, such as sports, entertainment, foreign policy, war, nature, travel, or crime. Most often their photographs accompany news stories, but photojournalists try to capture the moments that speak for themselves.

Average Salary:

$24,040

Average Hours (per week):

Photojournalists work in publishing, news gathering, government, advertising, and other fields. Travel is frequently required, sometimes over long stretches. The hours are extremely erratic.

Union:

None

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

A college degree in journalism and/or photography, or some related field is necessary. Most photojournalists can get good training not only in college classes but working on the school newspaper and yearbook. A strong liberal arts degree with an emphasis on history, social sciences, political science, with art and art history courses is recommended. Most photojournalists begin as assistants. It is important to try to get an internship with a newspaper or magazine. Many news gathering organizations require some form of formal training and a minimum of a few years of journalism experience.

Strongest Market(s):

Changes in the publishing industry because of the advent of strong Internet news sites suggest short-term freelance and contract work are becoming common. Electronic digital image processing and manipulation are growth areas.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals start around $7.32 per hour.

Top Salary:

$49,920

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be stagnant.

Photographer, Scientific

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:13:19 +0000

Scientific photographers take images of a variety of subjects to record scientific or medical data or phenomena, using knowledge of scientific procedures. They typically possess additional knowledge in areas such as engineering, medicine, biology, or chemistry. They create photographic displays for scientific exhibits, brochures, and other related material.

Average Salary:

$48,326

Average Hours (per week):

Scientific photographers are typically free-lance professionals who contract out their services. Some are employed in part-time and full-time positions in industrial research and development, and education.

Union:

None

Certifications:

Some certifications are available in particular sciences.

Training Period:

Scientific photography generally requires a college degree in photography or in a field related to the industry in which the photographer seeks employment. In addition to professional-level skills in all of the many details of photography, an avid interest in science and an education therein, is a must.

Strongest Market(s):

Growth markets for scientific photographers include: aerospace and industrial manufacturing, and scientific research and development services.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $19.78 to $21.82 per hour.

Top Salary:

$64,070

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be higher than the national average over the next decade, at 14 to 19 percent.

Biomedical Photographer

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:11:44 +0000

The biomedical photographer photographs patients, operating room procedures, and autopsy specimens; the biomedical photographer also designs layouts and materials for special projects, and selects the most technically correct, cost effective and efficient method for photographing subjects. This photographer typically reports to a supervisor or manager.

Average Salary:

$48,326

Average Hours (per week):

Medical photographers are typically free-lance professionals contracting their services. Some are employed in part-time and full-time positions in hospitals, medical schools, and in the biomedical industry.

Union:

None

Certifications:

The position may require a technical certification, offered by the BioCommunications Association’s Board of Registry, in order to become a Registered Biological Photographer (R.B.P.).

Training Period:

This particular specialty usually requires a high school diploma or its equivalent and two to four years of related experience. The photographer must be familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within the biomedical field. The photographer relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish his tasks. A certain degree of creativity is required, as well as an attention to the many details involved in photography. An interest in science, medicine, and/or technology is recommended for a successful career in biomedical photography.

Strongest Market(s):

Medical photography is a small competitive field. Medical photographers are utilized in education. Changes in technology dictate that photographers are needed to produce state-of-the art computer representations of biological processes.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $19.78 per hour to $21.82 per hour.

Top Salary:

$57,432

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be higher than the national average over the next decade, at 14 to 19 percent

Photographers

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:10:21 +0000

Photographers photograph persons, subjects, merchandise, or other commercial products. They may develop negatives and produce finished prints. Sample job titles include: photographer, photojournalist, newspaper photographer, newspaper photojournalist, advertising photographer, news photographer, photo editor, sports photographer, and studio photographer.

Average Salary:

$29,440

Average Hours (per week):

Working conditions for photographers vary considerably. Some photographers may work a 5-day, 40-hour week. News photographers, however, often work long, irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice. Many photographers work part time or on variable schedules. 60 percent of photographers are self-employed and 28 percent are employed in professional, scientific, and technical services.

Union:

None

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

Entry-level positions in photojournalism or in industrial or scientific photography generally require a college degree in photography or in a field related to the industry in which the photographer seeks employment. Entry-level freelance or portrait photographers need technical proficiency. Some complete a college degree or vocational training programs. Photographers wishing to enter the news business can often find an internship with a publishing entity, where they can develop a real-life portfolio, get experience and develop contacts.

Strongest Market(s):

Demand for portrait photographers should increase as the population grows. Growth of Internet versions of magazines, journals, and newspapers will require increasing numbers of commercial photographers to provide digital images. The Internet and improved data management programs also should make it easier for freelancers to market directly to their customers, increasing opportunities for self-employment and decreasing reliance on stock photo agencies. This allows the photographer more freedom to work and live virtually anywhere, depending on the particular subjects they are shooting.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $8.14 to $9.91 per hour.

Top Salary:

$62,430

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be average nationally over the next decade at 7 to 13 percent.

Sound Engineering Technicians

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:09:10 +0000

Sound engineering technicians operate machines and equipment to record, synchronize, mix, or reproduce music, voices, or sound effects in sporting arenas, theatre productions, recording studios, or movie and video productions.

Average Salary:

$47,490

Average Hours (per week):

Evening, weekend, and holiday work is common.

Union:

None

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

Sound engineering technicians usually complete a vocational program, which can take about a year, although there are shorter programs. Prospective technicians should take high school courses in math, physics, and electronics. Technicians need to have excellent computer training to be successful in this field.

Strongest Market(s):

People seeking entry-level jobs as sound engineer technicians are expected to face keen competition because of the large number of people attracted by the glamour of working in the entertainment and recording industries. Competition will be stronger in large metropolitan areas where pay is generally higher and the number of job seekers usually exceeds the number of openings. Prospects for entry-level positions are expected to be better in small cities and towns, provided that the jobseeker has appropriate training. Industry markets are: motion picture and video, sound recording, radio and television, performing arts, and cable.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $11.44 to $15.75 per hour.

Top Salary:

$92,700

Job Growth Forecast:

Job growth is expected to be slower than the national average over the next decade, at 3 to 6 percent.

Radio Operators

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:08:09 +0000

Radio operators receive and transmit communications using radio/telephone equipment, in accordance with government regulations. They may also repair equipment. A sample of job titles includes: communications specialist, radio electronics officer (REO), flight communications specialist, radio operator, telecommunication operator, airline operations agent, flight follower, police communications operator, communications technician, and radio electronics technician (RET).

Average Salary:

$37,120

Average Hours (per week):

Over 58 percent of jobs for radio operators are with government agencies. 15 percent of them work in the information telecommunications industry.

Union:

None

Certifications:

No certification or licensing is required for most radio operator jobs.

Training Period:

Radio operators are not usually required to complete any formal training. This is an entry-level position that generally requires on-the-job training.

Strongest Market(s):

Radio operator is a low-demand occupation, with 1,000 jobs nationwide.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $9.25 per hour to $13.41 per hour.

Top Salary:

$61,290

Job Growth Forecast:

Job growth is expected to be about at the national average over the next decade, at 7 percent to 13 percent.

Broadcast Technicians

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:06:50 +0000

Broadcast technicians set up, operate, and maintain the electronic equipment used to transmit radio and television programs. They control audio equipment to regulate volume level and quality of sound during radio and television broadcasts. They operate transmitters to broadcast radio or television programs. Sample job titles include: broadcast engineer, and audio engineer.

Average Salary:

$32,900

Average Hours (per week):

Broadcast technicians at large stations and the networks usually work a 40-hour week under great pressure to meet broadcast deadlines, and may occasionally be required to work overtime. Technicians at small stations routinely work more than 40 hours a week. Evening, weekend, and holiday work is usual because most stations are on the air 18 to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Some technicians need to be available on call whenever the station is broadcasting. Technicians must handle any problems that occur during this time.

Union:

Roughly 11 percent of all broadcasting employees are union members, primarily in larger markets covered by NABET, IBEW, IATSE, and AFTRA contracts.

Certifications:

Licensing is not required for broadcast technicians. However, certification by the Society of Broadcast Engineers is issued to experienced technicians who pass an examination, and the certification may help with advancement. Experienced technicians can become supervisory technicians or chief engineers.

Training Period:

A college degree in engineering is needed to become chief engineer at large television stations. Technical school, community college, or college training in broadcast technology, electronics, or computer networking provides the best preparation.

Strongest Market(s):

People seeking entry-level jobs as broadcast technicians are expected to face keen competition because of the large number of people attracted by the glamour of working in television or radio. Competition will be stronger in large metropolitan areas where pay is generally higher and the number of job seekers usually exceeds the number of openings. Prospects for entry-level positions are expected to be better in small cities and towns, provided that the jobseeker has appropriate training.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $8.42 to $11.01 per hour.

Top Salary:

$66,550

Job Growth Forecast:

Little to no growth is expected over the next decade. The prospects range from negative two percent to two percent.

Audio and Video Equipment Technicians

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:05:07 +0000

AV technicians set up, and/or operate audio and video equipment, including microphones, sound speakers, video screens, projectors, video monitors, recording equipment, connecting wires and cables, sound and mixing boards, and related electronic equipment. They may do this for concerts, sports events, meetings and conventions, presentations, or news conferences, among other possible events. They may also set up and operate associated spotlights and other custom lighting systems. Sample job titles include: production assistant, audio visual technician, master control operator (MCO), broadcast engineer, stagehand, videographer, audio/visual manager, audio/visual operator, equipment technician, master control engineer

Average Salary:

$38,050

Average Hours (per week):

Broadcast and sound engineering technicians and radio operators at large stations and the networks usually work a 40-hour week under great pressure to meet broadcast deadlines. They may occasionally work overtime. Technicians at small stations routinely work more than 40 hours a week. Evening, weekend, and holiday work is usual because most stations are on the air 18 to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Technicians who work on motion pictures may be on a tight schedule and may work long hours to meet contractual deadlines.

Union:

Roughly 11percent of all broadcasting employees are union members, primarily in larger markets covered by NABET, IBEW, IATSE, and AFTRA contracts.

Certifications:

Training Period:

Technical school, community college, or college training in broadcast technology, electronics, or computer networking provides the best preparation for these jobs.

Strongest Market(s):

Job applicants will face keen competition for jobs in major metropolitan areas, where pay generally is higher. Prospects are expected to be better in small cities and towns. About 29 percent of these workers are in broadcasting, mainly in radio and television stations, and 15 percent work in the motion picture, video, and sound recording industries.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $10.34 to $13.52 per hour.

Top Salary:

$66,030

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be average over the next decade at 7 to 13 percent.

Interpreters and Translators

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:04:02 +0000

Interpreters translate or interpret written, oral, or sign language text into another language for others. Sample job titles include: sign language interpreter, interpreter, translator, educational interpreter, medical interpreter, paraprofessional interpreter, bilingual interpreter, conference interpreter, conference translator, court interpreter

Average Salary:

$38,850

Average Hours (per week):

Over 26 percent of interpreters are self-employed freelancers. Their schedules often vary, with periods of limited work interspersed with periods requiring long, irregular hours. For those who freelance, a significant amount of time must be dedicated to looking for jobs. Another 28 percent of interpreters work in educational settings. Interpreters who work over the telephone or through videoconferencing generally work in call centers in urban areas and keep to a standard 5-day, 40-hour work week.

Union:

None

Certifications:

Currently there is no universal form of certification required in the United States. However there are a variety of different tests that workers can take to demonstrate proficiency. One, the American Translators Association, provides certification in 24 language combinations involving English for its members. Federal courts have certification for Spanish, Navajo, and Haitian Creole interpreters, and many state and municipal courts offer their own forms of certification. The National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators also offers certification for court interpreting. The U.S. Department of State has a three-test series for prospective interpreters — one test in simple consecutive interpreting (for escort work), another in simultaneous interpreting (for court or seminar work), and a third in conference-level interpreting (for international conferences) — as well as a test for prospective translators. Additionally, the International Association of Conference Interpreters offers certification for conference interpreters. The National Association of the Deaf and the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) jointly offer certification for general sign interpreters.

Training Period:

The educational backgrounds of interpreters and translators vary. Knowing at least two languages is obviously essential. The more languages one knows, the more one is in demand. (Knowing three languages doubles the potential number of jobs; knowing four languages increases that number by a factor of six.)

Strongest Market(s):

Strong markets for interpreters and translators are: education, professional technical services, local government, and general medical and surgical hospitals. The demand for interpreters is high in all regions of the country.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $9.73 to $12.38 per hour.

Top Salary:

$55,290

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be much higher than average over the next decade, at 20 percent or higher.

Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:02:50 +0000

Here described as “creative writers,” this field encompasses a great deal of work. Generally creative writers are responsible for original written works, whether they are film or stage scripts, essays, prose, poetry or song lyrics – all for publication or performance. Sample job titles include: author, freelance writer, novelist, songwriter, lyricist, book reviewer, creative writer, documentary script writer, freelance journalist, or librettist.

Average Salary:

$53,070

Average Hours (per week):

Some poets, lyricists and creative writers keep regular office hours, either to maintain contact with sources, collaborators, publishers and editors, or to establish a writing routine. Most, though, set their own hours. Many writers — especially freelance writers —are paid per completed assignment and must work any number of hours necessary to meet a deadline. As a result, writers must be willing to work evenings, nights, or weekends to produce a piece acceptable to an editor or client by the deadline.

Union:

Where applicable, the same unions and guilds apply to poets, lyricists and creative writers. The theatre and film industries often require membership of anyone working in those industries, and that would even apply to writers.

Certifications:

None.

Training Period:

A bachelor’s degree or higher is typically needed for these jobs, and can be the preliminary source for the specific working training needed. Training and experience are found in college theatre and music programs, where playwrights and songwriters have an opportunity to have their work performed. Many magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations also have internships for students. Interns may write stories, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the publishing, theatre, or broadcasting business.

Strongest Market(s):

Over 70 percent of all poets, lyricists and creative writers are self-employed, permitting them to work virtually anywhere they have access to the Internet, fax, or phone.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $10.62 to $14.07 per hour. There are paid internships available, or internships for college credit, which are more common. As creative industries are often difficult to break into, this path is helpful in establishing contacts, getting to know the business one is interested in, and developing a real-life portfolio.

Top Salary:

$87,390

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be higher than average over the next decade at 14 to 19 percent.

Authors and Writers

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:01:46 +0000

Writers originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material. They work in both fiction and non-fiction, depending on their specialties and on the demands of the marketplace.

Average Salary:

$53,070

Average Hours (per week):

Some writers keep regular office hours, either to maintain contact with sources and editors or to establish a writing routine, but most writers are freelance and therefore set their own hours. Many writers — especially freelance writers — are paid per completed assignment. So, they must work any number of hours necessary to meet a deadline. As a result, writers must be willing to work evenings, nights, or weekends to produce a piece acceptable to an editor or client by the deadline.

Union:

There are a number of unions and/or guilds for authors and writers, depending on the industry they write in (film, publishing, newspaper, fiction, broadcasting, non-fiction, and even Internet). The National Writers Union and the Writers Guild are two of the more well known among them.

Certifications:

None. Certain specialties that writers work on have certifications but they generally wouldn’t help the writer get the writing assignment. They would help the writer in becoming a specialist. There are many certifications related to technical fields that a technical writer may want to consider.

Training Period:

Depending on the market the writer is working on, there are plenty of internships available at publishing houses, film production houses, newspapers, and the like. The ability to write well almost certainly demands a college education with as wide a variety of subjects as possible.

Strongest Market(s):

Over 70 percent of all writers are self-employed, permitting them to work virtually anywhere they have access to communications equipment (Internet, fax, phone).

Entry Level Salary:

Entry-level salaries for qualified individuals range from $10.62 to $14.07 per hour.

Top Salary:

$87,390

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be higher than average over the next decade at 14 to 19 percent, primarily because of exponentially increased need for writers online. Job prospects for most technical writing jobs are expected to be good, particularly for those with web or multimedia experience.

Editors

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 08:00:36 +0000

Editors plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. They often review story proposals from writers, or assign stories from other sources to particular writers. They must sometimes copy edit drafts of stories for possible publication. Job titles may include: copy editor, technical editor, and advertising editor.

Average Salary:

$57,180

Average Hours (per week):

Editors’ schedules generally are determined by the news organization’s production schedule and the type of editorial position. Most salaried editors work in very busy offices and have to deal with production deadline pressures and the stresses of ensuring that the information they publish is accurate. As a result, editors often work long hours, especially leading up to a publication deadline. Deadlines are often daily or even more frequently when editing material for the Internet or for a live broadcast. Overseeing and coordinating multiple writing projects simultaneously is common in these jobs. Freelance editors face the added pressures of finding work on an ongoing basis and continually adjusting to new work environments.

Union:

None

Certifications:

A college degree is required for a position as an editor. Mastery of computers and communications equipment is necessary in order to stay in touch with sources, editors, and other writers while working on assignments, whether from home, an office, or while traveling.

Training Period:

A bachelor’s degree or higher is typically needed for a job as an author, writer, or editor. Good training and experience for editorial jobs can be had by working on high school and college newspapers, community newspapers, and radio and television stations. Most magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations also have internships for students. Interns may write stories, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the publishing or broadcasting business from the inside.

Strongest Market(s):

The largest market for editors is in the newspaper, magazine, and publishing industries. Demand is high in these industries in Washington D.C., New York, Boston and Chicago. Currently there is a shift from print editorial to online digital editorial.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $13.51 to $17.64 per hour.

Top Salary:

$95,490

Job Growth Forecast:

Little or no change in growth for editors is anticipated in the coming decade due to the shift to online editorial.

Reporters and Correspondents

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:59:03 +0000

Reporters, or journalists, investigate leads and news tips to write stories for publication or broadcast. They look at documents, observe events at the scene, and interview people. They take careful notes and may sometimes take photographs or shoot videos. They organize the material, decide which aspects of the story to emphasize, write their stories, and edit accompanying video material. Usually, reporters enter information or write stories on laptop computers and electronically submit the material to their offices from remote locations. Increasingly, reporters are asked to maintain and produce material for a newspaper’s website. Radio and television reporters often compose stories and report live from the scene. At times, they later tape an introduction to, or commentary on, their stories in the studio. Some journalists also interpret the news or offer opinions to readers, viewers, or listeners. In this role, they are called commentators or columnists.

Average Salary:

$34,850

Average Hours (per week):

The work environment is tremendously hectic. There is great pressure to meet deadlines. Broadcast reporters/correspondents have very little time prior to airing for preparation of their stories. Work hours vary. Print reporters working for morning papers often work from late afternoon until midnight. Radio and television reporters are typically assigned to day or evening shifts. Hours change frequently to meet deadlines or follow late-breaking developments. Work may require long hours, irregular schedules, and some travel.

Union:

Many of these positions require union membership.

Certifications:

No certification or licensing is required.

Training Period:

Most employers prefer individuals with a bachelor’s degree in journalism or mass communications, but some hire graduates with other majors. They look for experience at school newspapers or broadcasting stations, and internships with news organizations. Large-city newspapers and stations also may prefer candidates with a degree in a subject-matter specialty such as economics, political science, or business. Some large newspapers and broadcasters may hire only experienced reporters.

Strongest Market(s):

The largest market for reporters and correspondents is Washington D.C. and other metropolitan areas.

Entry Level Salary:

Starting salaries range from $9.70 to $12.38 per hour.

Top Salary:

$77,480

Job Growth Forecast:

Due to industry consolidation this category is expected to decline by 8 percent over the next decade.

Broadcast News Analysts

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:58:06 +0000

News analysts — also sometimes referred to as newscasters or news anchors — examine, interpret, and broadcast news received from various sources. News anchors present news stories and introduce videotaped news or live transmissions from on-the-scene reporters. News analysts are also off-screen individuals who work behind the scenes to gather the news, or check facts, or direct reporters to investigate certain areas of their stories. They also may help in editing the news stories before they go on the air. Often, news analysts are specialists in a certain area of interest and will appear on news shows to give their analysis and opinions regarding current events. These jobs may be in any area, but are most often in “beats” that get a lot of coverage, such as national, state and local politics; criminal and civil legal proceedings (and, for a very select few, the Supreme Court); and various areas of business, from local to international.

Average Salary:

$51,890

Average Hours (per week):

The weeks are often long and go well into the weekends and late at night, particularly if there is a breaking story. News analysts work easily over 40 hours per week.

Union:

Typically this is a non-union management position.

Certifications:

No certification or licensing is required.

Training Period:

Most employers prefer individuals with a bachelor’s degree in journalism or mass communications, but some hire graduates with other majors. The employers look for experience at school newspapers or broadcasting stations, and internships with news organizations. Large-city newspapers and television and radio stations also may prefer candidates with a degree in a subject-matter specialty such as economics, political science, or business. Some large newspapers and broadcasters may hire only experienced reporters. Generally news analysts have a strong liberal arts education, with emphasis on history, political science, social science, and even psychology.

Strongest Market(s):

There were 6,310 broadcast news analysts in 2008. Due to the limited number of broadcast licenses, smaller markets (Idaho, Georgia, Utah, Montana, and South Dakota) offer a better opportunity for entry-level news analyst jobs versus larger markets.

Entry Level Salary:

The starting salary range is $11.28 to $15.39 per hour.

Top Salary:

$156,200

Job Growth Forecast:

Projected growth for the next decade is below average at 4 percent.

Public Address System and Other Announcers

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:56:43 +0000

Known generally as P.A. or public announcers, these voice talents make announcements over loud speakers at sporting events or other public events. A public announcer may act as master of ceremonies or a disc jockey at weddings, parties, clubs, or other gathering places. Sample job titles include: disc jockey (DJ), master of ceremonies (MC), mobile disc jockey (mobile DJ), announcer, public address announcer, bingo caller, entertainer, event planner, emcee, and track announcer.

Average Salary:

$27,420

Average Hours (per week):

The average work week is fairly low at 25 hours per week. A third of all public address announcers are self-employed and work a variety of hours and days. Weekends and evenings are common. The balance are employed in the arts, entertainment and recreation industries.

Union:

None

Certifications:

No certification or licensing is required for this job.

Training Period:

These occupations usually require a high-school diploma, and some job preparation is necessary. Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Most announcers are comfortable in front of people, no matter the level of “performance” required. Not only a pleasant voice, but practiced skill in public speaking is necessary to success.

Strongest Market(s):

Typical industries employing this category include: performing arts companies, spectator sports, promoters of events, independent artists, writers, performers, amusement, gambling, and recreation industries, and fitness and recreational sports centers. The strongest markets for this category are in the Midwest.

Entry Level Salary:

The starting salary averages at $7.51 to $13.18 per hour.

Top Salary:

$69,850

Job Growth Forecast:

Projected growth for the next decade is anywhere from 7 to 13 percent, depending on the area and the particular job within these various industries.

Radio and Television Announcers

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:55:32 +0000

Announcers, basically, talk on radio or television. They may interview guests, act as master of ceremonies, read news flashes, identify station by giving call letters, or announce song title and artist. Sample job titles include: news anchor, anchor, television news anchor (TV news anchor), announcer, meteorologist, host, program director, sports director, radio announcer, and news director.

Average Salary:

$29,940.

Average Hours (per week):

Generally, announcers work around the average amount of hours per week, which is 36 in the communications industry. Many stations broadcast 24 hours a day, so announcers can expect to work unusual hours. Many announcers work part time and many are self-employed working freelance.

Union:

Roughly 11 percent of all broadcasting employees are union members, primarily in larger markets covered by NABET, IBEW, IATSE, and AFTRA contracts.

Certifications:

No certification or licensing is required.

Training Period:

Announcers usually begin at a station in a small community and, if they are qualified, may move to a better paying job in a large city. They also may advance by hosting a regular program, as a disc jockey, sportscaster, or other specialist. Competition for employment by networks is particularly intense, and employees will need a college degree with at least several years of successful announcing experience if they wish to advance.

Strongest Market(s):

Announcers held about 67,400 jobs in 2008. About 51 percent were employed in radio and television broadcasting. Many other announcers are self-employed freelance announcers, who sell their services to networks and stations, advertising agencies, other independent producers, or to sponsors of local events. Due to the limited number of broadcast licenses, smaller markets (North and South Dakota, Alaska, Montana and West Virginia) offer better entry level opportunities for announcer jobs versus larger markets.

Entry Level Salary:

Salaries in broadcasting vary widely, but generally are relatively low, except for announcers who work for large stations in major markets or for networks. The starting salary averages a very low $7.45 per hour to $12.95 predicated on location. Even though there is more competition, urban areas pay more per hour.

Top Salary: Earnings are higher in television than in radio and higher in commercial broadcasting than in public broadcasting. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $7.45, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $36.42.

Job Growth Forecast:

Job opportunities for radio and television announcers are projected to decline between 3 percent and 9 percent over the next decade. Projected job openings over the decade are 15,500. Announcers held about 67,400 jobs in 2008, with 51 percent employed in radio and television broadcasting.

Exhibit Designer — Museum

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:41:36 +0000

Exhibit designers design and construct environments and exhibits for museums. They must make the material as easily reachable and as understandable as possible. They also try to make the exhibits as engaging as possible.

The exhibit designer works with the curator and other museum personnel to gather all the information needed about the exhibit: the number of pieces, the space allowed, and the content and all of the educational material to be conveyed. The designer then makes several possible design sketches for the curator to choose from. The designer then adapts the designs to the curator’s needs and other demands. Once the design is finalized, the designer oversees its construction and installation, making any and all final touches before the exhibit is open to the public.
Average Salary:

$62,000

Average Hours (per week):

The average work week for an exhibit designer is 40 hours, and more if there is a special exhibit with deadlines.
Union:

No
Certifications:

Good portfolio, as with all design jobs, is essential. CAD Certification may be useful, especially as museums are increasingly working toward stimulating environments and not just exhibits.
Training Period:

A Bachelors degree in scenic design with emphasis on interior design is recommended. Many exhibit designers have specialties – art, science, natural history, etc, — based on their own interests. A thorough education in your specialty is also a good idea. Exhibit designers definitely need as broad a liberal arts education as possible in order to be able to design any kind of exhibit. Ability to research is crucial. Graphic arts courses are also a good idea. Internships in museums are a chance to build a portfolio and learn on-the-job techniques as well as develop connections with future employers.
Strongest Market(s):

Washington, D.C. is the place with most of the museums, which, run by the federal government, generally have more money at their disposal. Any major metropolitan area, though, also has plenty of museums, which feature both semi-permanent exhibits as well as traveling or temporary shows.
Entry Level Salary:

$40,000.
Top Salary:

$86,000.
Job Growth Forecast:
The forecasts for ten-year job growth for exhibit designers is 12 percent. Since most museums are dependent on the philanthropy of both individuals and businesses, jobs are expected to increase as the economy improves.

Set Designer

admin — Fri, 07 May 2010 07:40:14 +0000

Set designers use a sense of design, an understanding of the architecture of the period presented in the play or film (or commercial), and an understanding of theatre or film in general to create engaging sets.

Set designers read the script and work with the director to understand all the basic needs of the set as well as the director’s vision. They must often do research to ensure that their designs are accurate with the period presented, and with the place presented. The designer shows several possible sketches for the sets to the director, and then must adapt and change as the sketches move to models and to blueprints and then the set itself.
Average Salary:

$45,000. Theatre set designers are on average lower salaries than for film and television.
Average Hours (per week):

Unless employed by a studio or production company, where the work would be steady, the days would be long to meet production deadlines. Forty-plus hours per week would be expected.
Union:

IATSE is the union for most people in the scenic professions, whether building or designing.
Certifications:

CAD certification is useful. The portfolio of your work is still the determining factor for employment.
Training Period:

A college degree – an Associates or, better yet, Bachelors degree — in scenic design is required. Courses in theatre and film, architecture, and art are a good idea. Understanding of structure and construction is helpful. Two to four years working as an assistant will be necessary. As with other design professions, getting an internship with a production company or theatre company would help you build a portfolio, establish connections in the industry, and give you a good working knowledge of the business from the inside.
Strongest Market(s):

Los Angeles is where the soundstages are. Vancouver, Canada, too. New York is where Broadway is. Other big cities may afford an opportunity to build a portfolio by working in theatre.
Entry Level Salary:

$25,000. Set design is competitive, so the entry-level salary is low for both film and theatre.
Top Salary:

$75,000.
Job Growth Forecast:
The ten-year growth projection is 14 percent for set designers, which is better than average growth because of increased film and video markets, both globally and with ever-increasing cable markets.

Print Production Manager

admin — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:11:04 +0000

The print production manager is the print equivalent of the commercial producer.

This position entails both business aspects of choosing the right vendors – printers, artists, graphic designers, photographers, and other print production people – as well as understanding the finer aspects of printing.

The print production manager (PPM) works with the art director and the creative director to understand exactly what they need in the proper completion of print ads, collateral, or anything that needs to be printed. The PPM then works with the vendors to negotiate the best price, and often to negotiate a faster schedule than the vendor would want. The PPM handles many such tasks in various stages of completion and must stay on top of them all because each stage depends on the timely completion of the previous stage.
Average Salary: $77,000
Average Hours (per week):

The average week is 40 hours, though sometimes more to meet deadlines or deal with unexpected changes. Generally, though, good PPM’s are expected to get their work done during office hours.
Union:

No.
Certifications:

Project management certification would be a good idea. PPM’s must also keep up on changes and techniques in printing.
Training Period:

Generally requires a bachelor’s degree and many years of experience in graphic arts and printing. Also requires organization; project management; and, an exceptional attention to detail, both with numbers and with printing, illustration and art.
Strongest Market(s):

Anywhere there is an ad agency, or a company that is creating much of its own printed material, there is a job for PPMs. Since print is infinitely more common than broadcast, and still quite complex in its variables, there is a need for print production managers in all but the smallest markets.
Entry Level Salary:

For managerial level, the salary is $50,000.
Top Salary:

$105,000.
Job Growth Forecast:
Job growth over the next ten years is 12percent, generally on par with growth in all areas of employment.

Production Assistant

admin — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 16:03:04 +0000

If one desires to get into the film production or the commercial production business (or sometimes television production), the Production Assistant (PA) is a good entry position.

As the title implies PA’s do any and all jobs to help the production along. So, a great attitude is essential, as PA’s may often suffer the misdirected verbal abuse of directors and producers who are under a great deal of pressure. Filming is extremely expensive, so every minute is valuable. So, the PA’s must cheerfully be go-fers, chauffeurs, etc. In all those odd jobs, though, the PA’s can pick up a lot, and gather a great practical understanding of the production business.

Though PA’s work with production companies and not advertising agencies, the job is a first step into being a commercial producer for an agency. The PA’s who have a knack for numbers, organization and business will be able to help the producers with all the paperwork required. They may help work out the budgets, or tabulate receipts. This affords them the opportunity to understand the business side of production. In an advertising agency, they would be Assistant Producers, helping the Agency producers do the same “number-crunching” or budgeting. They would also help in the more creative details of production, such as supervising post-production.

Average Salary: $30,000
Average Hours (per week):

The limits of a shoot day are 12 hours… usually. Still, the PA is working before the shooting starts and long after it’s wrapped for the day. Pre-production usually consists of 12-hour days, too. Also, even though the crew gets a day off each week, the PA doesn’t.
Union:

Not for work with advertising agencies, but membership is required for most positions in the film industry.
Certifications:

Certification in project management is certain to help.
Training Period:

Though a bachelor’s degree is not required, most PA’s have some college education, with an emphasis on both the business sides as well as the communications/artistic/ technical sides, for those who would want to be advertising producers. However, the very definition of PA is on-the-job training. It may take three years to warrant responsibility as a producer, depending on a person’s organizational skills and ability to handle intense pressure.
Strongest Market(s):

Those who live in Los Angeles or New York (or Vancouver) have the advantage of being freelance PA’s and assistant producers for both agencies and film companies. In order to move up fast, one has to live where they make most of the commercials.
Entry Level Salary: $22,000. Almost all of your meals are paid for by the company.
Top Salary: $35,000
Job Growth Forecast:
Job growth of 12 percent is the general expectation for producers, writers, directors, and the production business in general.