There are so many different and exciting roles in the radio industry. Outsiders who often get hung up on the loud, extroverted announcer stereotype don’t consider all the ‘behind the scenes’ work that goes on, and all the varied skill sets that are needed to run a station successfully.

Here is a brief rundown on just a few of the other roles that it takes to make it.

• Copywriter – Crafts engaging and creative script for advertising or other scripted content.
• Broadcast Assistant – Provides general support for presenters and producers, a role with a wide range of variable tasks, often a great entry level position.
• Account executive – A salesperson who sources new advertising customers and manages client interaction.
• Media planner – Uses knowledge and research to identify how to best target certain demographics in advertising and media.
• Music director – Organises music rotation and new music played on the station.
• Programmer – Schedules and organises timing, length and execution of shows, music slots and other content.
• Producer – Oversees the whole show production from concept to airing, keeps the stations ‘personality’ in mind in all creative decisions. Must have an extensive overall knowledge of most station operations.
• Production engineer – Sets up, operates and maintains any electronic equipment.
• Promotions manager – A sales and marketing role. Setting up and managing any on air competition or promotion, writing press releases and organising DJ appearances.
• Radio journalist – Writes and/or presents script for the news, collating research, interviews and press releases for a well-rounded news story.
• Station manager – Looks after the business and administrative and day to day functionality of the station. Hiring and firing and ensuring all parties are working together properly is part of a SM job role.
• Sound engineer – manipulates recordings or broadcast sound to ensure clear well pitched/toned results. Records and mixes speech, music and sound effects for advertising or other station needs.
• Website content manager – Creates and maintains the station website, possibly in conjunction with social media accounts, uploading podcasts and updates.
• Reception/Admin – Mans the phones, handles emails and does all of the regular admin that comes with any business.

A smaller station will see an employee taking on many if not most of these roles at the same time, which is an exciting prospect for those who enjoy variety and change.

This is just a small selection of the many roles that are available in radio; there are plenty of other opportunities as well, including voice acting, commercial production and public relations.

Radio is a sought after industry filled with talented, creative and professional people with a vast array of skills and experience.