Career Definition for a Radio Operator
Professional radio operators are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing electronic equipment that transmits and receives radio signals. They work for radio stations and local governments that use traditional and high definition (HD) radio transmissions for communication.
| Education | No formal education required; broadcasting or technology courses at vocational school or community college can be helpful |
| Job Skills | Computer-literate, tech-savvy, dexterous, detail-oriented |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $47,000 |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031)* | 3% |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Required Education
Familiarity with radio technology is the most important qualification for being a radio operator, rather than formal education requirements. Many radio operators gain experience with radio equipment and computer technology through vocational school, community college or college-level study in broadcasting or electronics. Alternatively, amateur and college radio operators are often self-taught and find employment due to their expertise.
Skills Required
Radio operators are electronically and technologically inclined. The movement towards digital broadcasting requires a high degree of computer literacy. Radio operators are also detail-oriented and able to work dexterously with small parts.
Career and Economic Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the number of jobs for radio operators will increase by 3% between 2021 and 2031. In 2021, radio operators earned median pay of $47,000, according to BLS figures.
Alternate Career Options
Other careers in similar fields include:
Audio and Video Equipment Technician
Audio and video equipment technicians are responsible for the electronic equipment used for events held in hotels, schools, convention centers, concert halls, and related venues. They set up and operate a variety of equipment, including mixing boards, microphones, video cameras, projectors and speakers. They're also responsible for keeping these components in good working order.
Employers typically look for candidates with at least a high school diploma, although relevant postsecondary degrees or certificates can improve employment prospects. On-the-job training is common, and voluntary professional certification is available. Jobs in this field are expected to increase by 16% from 2021 to 2031, per the BLS. The median pay for this occupation was $48,820 in 2021, also according to the BLS.
Mapping Technician
Mapping technicians use computers to access collected measurements of a land area and then use that information to draft or update maps (although fieldwork is sometimes possible). Mapping technicians may prepare general maps or specialty maps in which certain features are highlighted for a particular use. Common employers include engineering, surveying and mapping companies, as well as state and local governments. Mapping technicians usually have at least an associate degree in a related field. Voluntary professional certifications are available in this field. The BLS expects employment for surveying and mapping technicians to increase by 4% from 2021 to 2031 and reports that workers in this field earned a median pay of $46,910 in 2021.
