Media and Communication Equipment Workers earn $59,200 median salary – How to get hired
Media and Communication Equipment Workers earn a median $59,200 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $69,480, or about $28 an hour. Most workers earn between $35,120 (10th percentile) and $120,100 (90th percentile). Employment in this occupation totals 224,690 across the United States.
How much Media and Communication Equipment Workers earn
The median annual wage for Media and Communication Equipment Workers is $59,200, with half of workers earning more and half less. The bottom 10% earn $35,120 or less, while the top 10% earn $120,100 or more. The mean hourly wage is $28.00. These figures come from the most recent BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
Salaries vary by industry and employer. Workers in broadcasting and telecommunications often earn higher wages than those in smaller media production companies. Experience, location, and specialized skills also affect pay.
- Median: $59,200
- Mean: $69,480 ($28/hr)
- 10th percentile: $35,120
- 90th percentile: $120,100
- Total employed: 224,690
Pay by state
The BLS does not publish state-level salary breakdowns for this occupation. However, wages generally follow cost-of-living patterns – higher in states like California and New York, lower in the South and Midwest. For the most accurate state data, look up specific metropolitan areas on the BLS website.
How to become a Media and Communication Equipment Worker
Most Media and Communication Equipment Workers enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent, though some employers prefer an associate’s degree in electronics, broadcast technology, or a related field. On-the-job training is common. For example, broadcast technicians often start as assistants and learn equipment operation from senior staff.
Certifications can help. The Society of Broadcast Engineers offers the Certified Broadcast Technologist credential. Some employers require a driver’s license or FCC license for radio work. Skills in troubleshooting, computer networking, and audio/video software are highly valued. Experience with specific equipment like transmitters or production consoles can set you apart.
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent; associate’s degree helpful
- Training: On-the-job for most roles
- Certifications: SBE Certified Broadcast Technologist; FCC license for some roles
- Key skills: Troubleshooting, computer networking, audio/video systems
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for this occupation from 2024 to 2034. Employment of Media and Communication Equipment Workers is influenced by industry trends such as the shift to digital broadcasting and streaming. Overall, job openings will arise from the need to replace workers who retire or leave the field. Competition for jobs may be strong in larger media markets.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Media and Communication Equipment Worker do?
They set up, maintain, and repair equipment used for radio, TV, film, and other media. This includes cameras, transmitters, sound systems, and broadcast consoles.
What is the highest-paying state for this job?
The BLS does not publish state-level data for this occupation. Wages are typically highest in states with large media hubs like California and New York.
Is there a certification required?
Not always, but certifications like the SBE Certified Broadcast Technologist can improve job prospects. Some radio roles require an FCC license.
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 Media and Communication Equipment Workers data.