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Creative, Arts, & ExpressionStable

Media Technical Directors/Manager

Mid-level

Also known as: Broadcast Director, News Technical Director, Newscast Director, Operations Director

Creative, Arts, & ExpressionBachelor's Degree

Job Description

You coordinate the technical sides of producing radio or TV programs, like taping, editing, and maintenance. You work closely with others indoors, often under time pressure, and need to be exact. This job suits someone who is a strong communicator, pays close attention to detail, and enjoys solving technical challenges in a dynamic environment. You'll use various broadcast and editing tools, along with email and phone to communicate with your team.
Broadcast MediaMedia ProductionBroadcast EngineeringTechnical DirectionManagementCommunicationsMedia TechnologyCreativeMediaTechnical

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+4%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

12,100

per year (US)

Jobs today

181,000

in 2025 → 188,300 (2035)

Typical entry education

Bachelor's degree

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
High
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
High
Working outdoors
Moderate
Indoor, climate-controlled
High
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

This career is stable, with about 12,100 job openings expected each year through 2035 and a median annual wage of $90,360. You can advance from roles like production assistant to executive producer or chief of broadcast operations by gaining experience and demonstrating leadership.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Production Assistant
  • Broadcast Technician
  • Junior Editor

Where it can lead

  • Executive Producer
  • Chief of Broadcast Operations
  • Studio Director

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will increasingly automate routine tasks like initial content editing, scheduling, and quality control, allowing Media Technical Directors to focus on creative oversight, strategic planning, and complex problem-solving. While AI can enhance efficiency in technical operations and resource allocation, these directors will need to adapt by mastering AI-driven tools for smarter production workflows and predictive maintenance. Their role will shift towards leveraging technology to innovate and optimize media production.