These workers use words and images to convey information and ideas.
Overall employment in media and communication occupations is projected to grow 6 percent over the next ten years, about as fast as the average for all occupations; this increase is expected to result in about 68,600 new jobs over the decade. In addition to new jobs from growth, opportunities arise from the need to replace workers who leave their occupations permanently. About 115,800 openings each year, on average, are projected to come from growth and replacement needs.
The median annual wage for media and communication occupations (such as announcers, interpreters and translators, and technical writers) is $62,340, which is higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $45,760.
Media and communication equipment workers (such as broadcast, sound, and video technicians, film and video editors, and photographers) have a median annual wage of $50,870, higher than the median annual wage for all occupations in the economy.
Announcers present news and sports or may interview guests on media such as radio and television. Disc jockeys (DJs) act as masters of ceremonies (emcees) or play recorded music at weddings, parties, or clubs.
Broadcast, sound, and video technicians set up, operate, and maintain the electrical equipment for radio programs, television broadcasts, concerts, sound recordings, and movies.
Editors plan, review, and revise content for publication.
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate images that entertain or inform an audience. Camera operators capture a wide range of material for television, movies, and other media. Editors arrange footage shot by camera operators and collaborate with producers and directors to create the final content.
Interpreters and translators convert information from one language into another language. Interpreters work in spoken or sign language; translators work in written language.
News analysts, reporters, and journalists keep the public updated about current events and noteworthy information. They report international, national, and local news for newspapers, magazines, websites, television, and radio.
Photographers use their technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images that tell a story or record an event.
Public relations managers plan and direct the creation of material that will maintain or enhance the public image of their employer or client. Fundraising managers coordinate campaigns that bring in donations for their organization.
Public relations specialists create and maintain a positive public image for the individuals, groups, or organizations they represent. They craft media releases and develop social media programs to shape public perception of their clients and to increase awareness of each client's work and goals.
Technical writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily.
Writers and authors develop content for various types of media, including advertisements; blogs; books; magazines; and movie, play, and television scripts.
Get the education and training you need for a career in Media and Communication.