A radio producer has many responsibilities, one of which is the making of the shows. He or she has the responsibility for conceptualization, coordinating with the guests and inviting them, as well as be the on air director of talent. The radio producer also works with the soundboard, broadcasting team etc. A radio show thus cannot be complete without a radio producer.
As a radio producer, you would be responsible for planning and scheduling the show. You have to be involved in the marketing department for managing the promotional aspects. As a producer, it would be your duty to confer legality, so as to have a smooth on air broadcasting, based on the rules and regulations of the state, and local or federal laws. The radio producer is also the director, script writer and editor of the radio shows. Overall, the radio producer is the basis of a radio station.
For becoming a radio producer, one has to have an aggressive, enthusiastic and competitive streak in him or her because the industry is highly competitive. You must have organizational skills with excellent researching capabilities. You should be aware of the currently held events and information. Radio producers must be diplomatic and experienced in the relevant field so as to guide others in their jobs. A radio producer must have the ability to undertake all kinds of responsibilities.
A regular four-year degree is not a mandatory requirement to land a job as a radio producer, but there are many employers who would prefer a qualified degree, the graduate degree. It would be an added advantage if you possessed a qualification in media production, broadcasting or any similar field.
Apart from the necessary educational qualification, if a candidate has professional experience, then his or her chances would increase. This is one requirement that every employer looks for in a resume.
As per the survey conducted in 2009, it has been estimated that a radio producer earns around $48,451 annually. The salary though would vary as per the size of the market, and radio station.
The employment rate for radio producers is expected to grow up to 11% by 2016. The opportunities for becoming a radio producer are many as the radio is not only restricted to on air broadcasting. There is online radio broadcasting too that has increased the scope for all future producers. One can apply online or even through the newspaper classifieds. If you fit all the job requirements, skills and expertise areas, then you have a high chance to make it to the post of a radio producer. Since radio producers are the basis of the broadcasting industry, and embrace vital responsibilities, the career is self motivated. High profile producers move on to form their own team or take up managerial responsibilities.