Broadcast Technician Salary Guide 2025: $59,570 Median, Top States Pay Over $108K
Broadcast Technicians earn a national median salary of $59,570 per year, with the top 10% pulling in over $123,670. The mean hourly wage is about $29. These figures come from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024 estimates.
How much Broadcast Technicians earn
The typical Broadcast Technician salary ranges from $31,390 at the 10th percentile to $123,670 at the 90th. Half of all workers earn between those extremes. The mean annual wage is $67,960, or roughly $29 per hour. Employers include TV and radio stations, cable networks, and production companies.
Pay by state
Where you work dramatically affects your paycheck. The District of Columbia pays the most at $108,270, followed by New Hampshire at $81,150, Pennsylvania at $80,470, New York at $78,840, and Illinois at $74,210.
On the lower end, Utah pays $31,490, Mississippi $27,750, and West Virginia $27,310. Half a country's worth of pay difference between top and bottom states makes location a critical factor.
How to become Broadcast Technician
Most Broadcast Technicians need a combination of education and hands-on training. An associate degree in broadcast technology, electronics, or a related field is common. Some employers accept a high school diploma plus relevant experience.
Certifications can help, like the SBE Certified Broadcast Technologist. You typically start as a studio or field technician, learning equipment operation and maintenance on the job. Licenses aren't required nationally, but FCC rules apply to certain transmitter operations.
- Earn an associate degree in broadcast technology or electronics.
- Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions at TV/radio stations.
- Consider SBE certifications to improve job prospects.
- Learn audio, video, and transmission equipment troubleshooting.
Job outlook
Employment for Broadcast Technicians is projected to decline 2.8% from 2024 to 2034, a loss of about 600 jobs. Even with the decline, roughly 1,800 openings per year are expected due to workers leaving the occupation. The trend toward automated and software-based production reduces demand for traditional technicians, but live events and streaming create some opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Broadcast Technician make per hour?
The mean hourly wage is about $29, according to BLS data. Entry-level workers earn around $15 per hour, while experienced techs can make over $59 per hour.
What is the job outlook for Broadcast Technicians?
Declining: -2.8% from 2024 to 2034, but about 1,800 openings per year are projected due to turnover.
How do I become a Broadcast Technician?
Typically you need an associate degree in broadcast technology or electronics, plus on-the-job training. Certifications like the SBE Certified Broadcast Technologist can help.
Which state pays Broadcast Technicians the most?
District of Columbia pays the highest average salary at $108,270, followed by New Hampshire ($81,150) and Pennsylvania ($80,470).
Do Broadcast Technicians need a license?
Not typically, but FCC rules apply to some transmitter operations. Voluntary certifications from SBE are common.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Broadcast Technicians data.