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Communications Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Communications Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For people who want broad career flexibility across media, marketing, corporate, and nonprofit sectors. Use the tools below to see which communications roles fit your background and goals.

This is a highly flexible major whose value comes from transferable skills (writing, persuasion, media literacy) rather than one fixed job title. Use the tools below to explore Communications-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like Communications Assistant, or look ahead to advanced roles such as Communications Director or Marketing Director. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as Accreditation in Public Relations (APR), that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Communications careers/jobs, (2) Find Communications job listings, (3) Prepare for Communications careers, and (4) Provide Communications career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Communications careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Communications Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Communications careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Communications, so relevant Communications jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Communications Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Communications Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Communications careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 34 Communications Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

13 Communications careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Communications-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Communications-Related Jobs

Audio and Video Technicians 26.2% Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Occupation: Audio and Video Technicians U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 26.2% Communications-Related Jobs: Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Public Relations Specialists 11.4% Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Occupation: Public Relations Specialists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 11.4% Communications-Related Jobs: Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Marketing Managers 10% Marketing Communications Manager
Occupation: Marketing Managers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 10% Communications-Related Jobs: Marketing Communications Manager
Public Safety Telecommunicators 8.2% Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Public Safety Telecommunicators U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8.2% Communications-Related Jobs: Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary 7.3% Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Occupation: Communications Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 7.3% Communications-Related Jobs: Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Electrical Engineers 6.8% Wire Communications Engineer
Occupation: Electrical Engineers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6.8% Communications-Related Jobs: Wire Communications Engineer
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives 6.8% Identification and Communications Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6.8% Communications-Related Jobs: Identification and Communications Supervisor
Emergency Management Directors 6.2% 911 Communications Manager
Occupation: Emergency Management Directors U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6.2% Communications-Related Jobs: 911 Communications Manager
Signal and Track Switch Repairers 5.6% Signal and Communications Maintainer
Occupation: Signal and Track Switch Repairers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.6% Communications-Related Jobs: Signal and Communications Maintainer
Computer Network Architects 5.5% Data Communications Analyst
Occupation: Computer Network Architects U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.5% Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Analyst
Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers 3.9% Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Occupation: Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 3.9% Communications-Related Jobs: Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers -1.1% Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
Occupation: Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -1.1% Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service -22.7% Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -22.7% Communications-Related Jobs: Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator

16 Communications careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Communications-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Communications-Related Jobs

Marketing Managers $ 157,620 Marketing Communications Manager
Occupation: Marketing Managers National Median Salary: $ 157,620 Communications-Related Jobs: Marketing Communications Manager
Computer Network Architects $ 129,840 Data Communications Analyst
Occupation: Computer Network Architects National Median Salary: $ 129,840 Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Analyst
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists $ 129,840 Unified Communications Engineer
Occupation: Telecommunications Engineering Specialists National Median Salary: $ 129,840 Communications-Related Jobs: Unified Communications Engineer
Electrical Engineers $ 106,950 Wire Communications Engineer
Occupation: Electrical Engineers National Median Salary: $ 106,950 Communications-Related Jobs: Wire Communications Engineer
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives $ 101,750 Identification and Communications Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives National Median Salary: $ 101,750 Communications-Related Jobs: Identification and Communications Supervisor
Database Administrators $ 101,510 Picture Archiving and Communication Systems Administrator (PACS Administrator)
Occupation: Database Administrators National Median Salary: $ 101,510 Communications-Related Jobs: Picture Archiving and Communication Systems Administrator (PACS Administrator)
Emergency Management Directors $ 83,960 911 Communications Manager
Occupation: Emergency Management Directors National Median Salary: $ 83,960 Communications-Related Jobs: 911 Communications Manager
Signal and Track Switch Repairers $ 82,710 Signal and Communications Maintainer
Occupation: Signal and Track Switch Repairers National Median Salary: $ 82,710 Communications-Related Jobs: Signal and Communications Maintainer
Communications Teachers, Postsecondary $ 79,910 Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Occupation: Communications Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 79,910 Communications-Related Jobs: Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Search Marketing Strategists $ 74,680 Marketing Communications Specialist
Occupation: Search Marketing Strategists National Median Salary: $ 74,680 Communications-Related Jobs: Marketing Communications Specialist
Public Relations Specialists $ 66,750 Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Occupation: Public Relations Specialists National Median Salary: $ 66,750 Communications-Related Jobs: Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers $ 61,310 Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Occupation: Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers National Median Salary: $ 61,310 Communications-Related Jobs: Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers $ 61,270 Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
Occupation: Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers National Median Salary: $ 61,270 Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
Audio and Video Technicians $ 51,640 Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Occupation: Audio and Video Technicians National Median Salary: $ 51,640 Communications-Related Jobs: Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Public Safety Telecommunicators $ 48,890 Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Public Safety Telecommunicators National Median Salary: $ 48,890 Communications-Related Jobs: Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service $ 36,750 Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service National Median Salary: $ 36,750 Communications-Related Jobs: Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator

16 Communications careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Communications-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Communications-Related Jobs

Communications Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Occupation: Communications Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Communications-Related Jobs: Adjunct Communications Instructor; Interpersonal Communications Professor; Mass Communications Professor; Speech Communication Professor
Computer Network Architects 4 Data Communications Analyst
Occupation: Computer Network Architects Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Analyst
Database Administrators 4 Picture Archiving and Communication Systems Administrator (PACS Administrator)
Occupation: Database Administrators Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Picture Archiving and Communication Systems Administrator (PACS Administrator)
Electrical Engineers 4 Wire Communications Engineer
Occupation: Electrical Engineers Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Wire Communications Engineer
Emergency Management Directors 4 911 Communications Manager
Occupation: Emergency Management Directors Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: 911 Communications Manager
Marketing Managers 4 Marketing Communications Manager
Occupation: Marketing Managers Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Marketing Communications Manager
Public Relations Specialists 4 Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Occupation: Public Relations Specialists Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Corporate Communications Specialist; Digital Communications Specialist; Environmental Communications Specialist; Information and Communications Specialist; Internal Communications Specialist; Marketing Communications Coordinator; Marketing Communications Specialist
Search Marketing Strategists 4 Marketing Communications Specialist
Occupation: Search Marketing Strategists Education/Preparation: 4 Communications-Related Jobs: Marketing Communications Specialist
Audio and Video Technicians 3 Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Occupation: Audio and Video Technicians Education/Preparation: 3 Communications-Related Jobs: Audio Visual Communications Systems Technician
Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers 3 Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Occupation: Radio, Cellular, and Tower Equipment Installers and Repairers Education/Preparation: 3 Communications-Related Jobs: Radio Communications Tech (Radio Communications Technician)
Signal and Track Switch Repairers 3 Signal and Communications Maintainer
Occupation: Signal and Track Switch Repairers Education/Preparation: 3 Communications-Related Jobs: Signal and Communications Maintainer
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists 3 Unified Communications Engineer
Occupation: Telecommunications Engineering Specialists Education/Preparation: 3 Communications-Related Jobs: Unified Communications Engineer
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers 3 Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
Occupation: Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers Education/Preparation: 3 Communications-Related Jobs: Data Communications Technician (Data Communications Tech); Satellite Communications Antenna Installer; Satellite Communications Operator
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives 2 Identification and Communications Supervisor
Occupation: First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives Education/Preparation: 2 Communications-Related Jobs: Identification and Communications Supervisor
Public Safety Telecommunicators 2 Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Public Safety Telecommunicators Education/Preparation: 2 Communications-Related Jobs: Emergency Communications Dispatcher; Emergency Communications Officer (ECO); Emergency Communications Operator (ECO); Police Communications Dispatcher; Police Communications Operator
Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service 2 Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator
Occupation: Switchboard Operators, Including Answering Service Education/Preparation: 2 Communications-Related Jobs: Central Communications Specialist; Police Communications Operator

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 34 specific Communications job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Audio and Video Technicians.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Audio and Video Technicians

Description: Set up, maintain, and dismantle audio and video equipment, such as microphones, sound speakers, connecting wires and cables, sound and mixing boards, video cameras, video monitors and servers, and related electronic equipment for live or recorded events, such as concerts, meetings, conventions, presentations, podcasts, news conferences, and sporting events.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
73,900
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
93,300
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
19,400 (26.2%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
10,200
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Audio and Video Technicians":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 96 (%) Description: Notify supervisors when major equipment repairs are needed.
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Perform minor repairs and routine cleaning of audio and video equipment.
Importance: 93 (%) Description: Diagnose and resolve media system problems.
Importance: 85 (%) Description: Direct and coordinate activities of assistants and other personnel during production.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Record and edit audio material, such as movie soundtracks, using audio recording and editing equipment.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Design layouts of audio and video equipment and perform upgrades and maintenance.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Conduct training sessions on selection, use, and design of audio-visual materials and on operation of presentation equipment.
Importance: 77 (%) Description: Install, adjust, and operate electronic equipment to record, edit, and transmit radio and television programs, motion pictures, video conferencing, or multimedia presentations.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Switch sources of video input from one camera or studio to another, from film to live programming, or from network to local programming.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Compress, digitize, duplicate, and store audio and video data.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Control the lights and sound of events, such as live concerts, before and after performances, and during intermissions.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 73 (%) Description: Inform users of audio and videotaping service policies and procedures.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Mix and regulate sound inputs and feeds or coordinate audio feeds with television pictures.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Obtain and preview musical performance programs prior to events to become familiar with the order and approximate times of pieces.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Plan and develop pre-production ideas into outlines, scripts, story boards, and graphics, using own ideas or specifications of assignments.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Monitor incoming and outgoing pictures and sound feeds to ensure quality and notify directors of any possible problems.
Importance: 57 (%) Description: Construct and position properties, sets, lighting equipment, and other equipment.
Importance: 57 (%) Description: Analyze and maintain data logs for audio-visual activities.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Develop manuals, texts, workbooks, or related materials for use in conjunction with production materials or for training.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Reserve audio-visual equipment and facilities, such as meeting rooms.
Importance: 55 (%) Description: Determine formats, approaches, content, levels, and mediums to effectively meet objectives within budgetary constraints, using research, knowledge, and training.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Maintain inventories of audio and videotapes and related supplies.
Importance: 50 (%) Description: Meet with directors and senior members of camera crews to discuss assignments and determine filming sequences, camera movements, and picture composition.
Importance: 49 (%) Description: Locate and secure settings, properties, effects, and other production necessities.
Importance: 49 (%) Description: Obtain, set up, and load videotapes for scheduled productions or broadcasts.
Importance: 47 (%) Description: Perform narration of productions or present announcements.
Importance: 46 (%) Description: Edit videotapes by erasing and removing portions of programs and adding video or sound as required.
Importance: 44 (%) Description: Organize and maintain compliance, license, and warranty information related to audio and video facilities.
Importance: 44 (%) Description: Produce rough and finished graphics and graphic designs.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 83 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 82 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Repairing and Maintaining Electronic Equipment: Servicing, repairing, calibrating, regulating, fine-tuning, or testing machines, devices, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of electrical or electronic (not mechanical) principles.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials: Inspecting equipment, structures, or materials to identify the cause of errors or other problems or defects.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Controlling Machines and Processes: Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Handling and Moving Objects: Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Importance: 67 (%) Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Performing for or Working Directly with the Public: Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Performing General Physical Activities: Performing general physical activities includes doing activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling materials.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Collaborate with others to determine technical details of productions.
Communicate organizational policies and procedures.
Compile technical information or documentation.
Construct distinctive physical objects for artistic, functional, or commercial purposes.
Convert data among multiple digital or analog formats.
Coordinate activities of production personnel.
Coordinate logistics for productions or events.
Determine technical requirements of productions or projects.
Draw detailed or technical illustrations.
Edit audio or video recordings.
Inform viewers, listeners, or audiences.
Maintain inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
Maintain logs of production activities.
Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
Maintain records, documents, or other files.
Mix sound inputs.
Monitor broadcasting operations to ensure proper functioning.
Notify others of equipment problems.
Operate audio recording equipment.
Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment.
Operate control consoles for sound, lighting or video.
Provide technical information or assistance to public.
Set up still or video cameras or related equipment.
Study details of musical compositions.
Train others on work processes.
Write informational material.
Write material for artistic or entertainment purposes.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Communications and Media: Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.
Importance: 79 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 73 (%) Description: Telecommunications: Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Importance: 71 (%) Description: Fine Arts: Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
Importance: 61 (%) Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Importance: 60 (%) Description: Public Safety and Security: Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 62 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 58 (%) Description: Operations Monitoring: Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Service Orientation: Actively looking for ways to help people.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Alter audio or video recordings.
Activity: Communicate with others about specifications or project details.
Activity: Compile records, documentation, or other data.
Activity: Create decorative objects or parts of objects.
Activity: Create visual designs or displays.
Activity: Determine operational methods or procedures.
Activity: Direct organizational operations, activities, or procedures.
Activity: Explain regulations, policies, or procedures.
Activity: Maintain electronic, computer, or other technical equipment.
Activity: Maintain operational records.
Activity: Monitor equipment operation.
Activity: Notify others of emergencies or problems.
Activity: Operate audiovisual or related equipment.
Activity: Operate communications equipment or systems.
Activity: Prepare informational or instructional materials.
Activity: Process digital or online data.
Activity: Provide information or assistance to the public.
Activity: Replenish inventories of materials, equipment, or products.
Activity: Set up equipment.
Activity: Study details of artistic productions.
Activity: Train others on operational or work procedures.
Activity: Write material for artistic or commercial purposes.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Project management software:
Microsoft Teams
Video conferencing software:
Zoom
Emerging Tech Skills
Data base user interface and query software:
Microsoft Access
Desktop publishing software:
Adobe InDesign
Electronic mail software:
Microsoft Outlook
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Operating system software:
Linux
Microsoft Windows
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Video conferencing software:
Cisco Webex
Video creation and editing software:
Adobe After Effects
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
General Software Tools
Data base user interface and query software:
Blackboard software
Internet browser software:
Web browser software
Internet protocol IP multimedia subsystem software:
Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Operating system software:
Cisco IOS
Video creation and editing software:
Apple Final Cut Pro
Apple iMovie
Corel Ulead DVD Workshop
YouTube
Web page creation and editing software:
Adobe Dreamweaver
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.

These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, desktop publishers, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters and simultaneous captioners, and medical assistants.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 42.7 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 25.1 (%) Level of Education: High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)
Frequency of Attainment: 19.9 (%) Level of Education: Post-Secondary Certificate
Frequency of Attainment: 11.2 (%) Level of Education: Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree
Frequency of Attainment: 1.2 (%) Level of Education: Some College Courses
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 36.5 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 19.0 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 13.9 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 12.2 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 10.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years
Frequency of Attainment: 4.4 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 3.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 0.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 8 years, up to and including 10 years
Professional Associations
Professional Associations
These associations connect people who work in this occupation or related fields. How can you start using these associations to learn more, build your network, or find mentoring opportunities?
Audio Publishers Association (APA) External Link


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Audio and Video Technicians". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Audio and Video Technicians". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Audio and Video Technicians". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Audio and Video Technicians


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Audio and Video Technicians" occupation.






Developed by Dr. Ralph Jagodka, Ed.D., Professor Emeritus of Business Management at Mt. San Antonio College and author of the Harvard Business Impact article "What to Do When Students Ask You for Career Advice." - Full bio. © 2026 About This Page