Media Programming Directors
What is a Media Programming Director?
A Media Programming Director is a vital role within the broadcasting and media industry, responsible for the planning, development, and management of content aired on television, radio, or digital platforms. This position involves evaluating and selecting programming schedules, overseeing the acquisition of new content, and ensuring that the programming aligns with the network's brand identity and audience demographics. Media Programming Directors collaborate with producers, directors, and content creators to curate a diverse range of shows, films, and other media that cater to viewers' interests and trends in the industry. Additionally, they analyze audience ratings, demographic data, and market research to make informed decisions about programming strategies, which can significantly impact the station's ratings and revenue. The role also entails budgeting and coordinating with other departments such as marketing, advertising, and digital media to create integrated promotional strategies that enhance audience engagement and viewership. Effective communication, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of media consumption patterns are crucial for success in this role.
Tasks
- Operate and maintain on-air and production audio equipment.
- Check completed program logs for accuracy and conformance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules and regulations and resolve program log inaccuracies.
- Read news, read or record public service and promotional announcements, or perform other on-air duties.
- Direct and coordinate activities of personnel engaged in broadcast news, sports, or programming.
- Monitor and review programming to ensure that schedules are met, guidelines are adhered to, and performances are of adequate quality.
Technology Skills
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Data base user interface and query software
- FileMaker Pro
- Microsoft SQL Server
- Scheduling databases
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Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
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Electronic mail software
- Email software
- Microsoft Outlook
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Graphics or photo imaging software
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe Photoshop
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Video creation and editing software
- Apple Final Cut Pro
- Avid Technology iNEWS
Tools Used
- Media control systems
- Radio frequency transmitters or receivers
- Audio mixing consoles
- Radio core equipment
- Digital voice recorders
Knowledge
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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.
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Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
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English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
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Administration and Management
Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources.
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Telecommunications
Knowledge of transmission, broadcasting, switching, control, and operation of telecommunications systems.
Skills
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Speaking
Talking to others to convey information effectively.
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Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
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Judgment and Decision Making
Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
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Reading Comprehension
Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
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Coordination
Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Abilities
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Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
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Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
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Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
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Written Comprehension
The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
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Written Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
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Bachelor's degree
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High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
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Some college, no degree
Work Activities
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Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
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Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
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Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
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Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
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Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Detailed Work Activities
- Operate communications, transmissions, or broadcasting equipment.
- Maintain recording or broadcasting equipment.
- Maintain logs of production activities.
- Report news to the public.
- Manage content of broadcasts or presentations.
Work Interests
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Enterprising
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
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Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
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Artistic
Work involves creating original visual artwork, performances, written works, food, or music for a variety of media, or applying artistic principles to the design of various objects and materials. Artistic occupations are often associated with visual arts, applied arts and design, performing arts, music, creative writing, media, or culinary art.

Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$42040.0 - $174540.0
This career will grow rapidly in the next few years.
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.