At all radio stations there are a number of jobs and careers available to those who are interested. The most notable position at a radio station is the job of the disc jockey or on-air personality. However, this is not the only satisfying job offered to broadcast school graduates. There are a number of positions that take place behind the scenes ensuring that the station runs smoothly from day to day.
A few of the available jobs at radio stations include a director of new media. This individual is in charge of integrating Internet content and all other new technology into the grand scheme of the station. The position tends to be rather independent, leaving a lot of creativity for the director of new media to search out and find deals on new equipment. This individual is in charge of dealing directly with the station manager, executive officers and web designers on ways to successfully purchase and integrate new equipment into the stations daily usage, while still allowing the station to turn a profit.
The director of new media is also in charge of educating him or herself with all new technology that is purchased for the station, and be familiar enough with it to educate all others on how to successfully operate the new equipment or software. In certain situations, the individual in this position will be responsible for creating a budget for the station, and then making sure that the station stays within the budget when looking to purchase new equipment.
Another responsibility that the director of new media is in charge of is to oversee the development and creation of graphics and website design for the station. He or she is also responsible for staying on the cutting edge of business and consumer trends around the country.
Another behind the scenes position available at radio stations is the position of station manager. The individual in this position at the station is usually responsible for the various day-to-day management of each of the specific departments in the station. This individual is also responsible for making sure that the station abides by the regulations and guidelines set fourth by the FCC. He or she will also be in charge of acting as a middleman between the station owners and its employees.
The station manager is generally left with the duty to recruit, hire and train all of the new employees that join the stations workforce. He or she is also in charge when problems arise and need attention during the day. Developing a budget and managing the finances of the station also falls into the hands of the station manager.
Finally, station managers are responsible for the advertising and promotion of the station. They are responsible for getting the stations name out and to network with advertisers in order to gain business connections.
As you can see, a disc jockey is not the only available position when searching for radio station careers. If you find yourself feeling uncomfortable about being on the air, but still enjoy the idea of working for a radio station, try considering one of the other exciting and challenging jobs available to those who qualify.
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Tim White is the director of admissions for the Ohio and Illinois Centers for Broadcasting, a top radio broadcasting school, and a manager of several national bands and artists. He has been FCC licensed since being a college radio DJ. Be On Air
