Master Control Operator

Also called: MCO, Broadcast Operator

Monitors what a TV station is broadcasting, making sure shows and ads air on time.

A day in the life

A master control operator watches dozens of screens, makes sure commercials run at exactly the right second, and jumps in when a satellite feed fails.

Pay over a career

Starting
$30k
Typical
$45k
High
$70k

Approximate; BLS broadcast technicians median about $50k.

Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.

Training

Associate's degree (2-year), about 2 years after high school. Broadcast technology certificate or degree.

Ways in: 2-year college, On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.

Majors to look at: Broadcast Technology.

Outlook

Shrinking. Centralized and automated master control hubs are replacing local operators.

Will it last? Our AI estimate

High risk for 10 years. Automated playout and centralized hubs now run most stations' broadcasts, so few operators are needed.

Start now, in high school

Classes: Computer applications, Electronics, Film/video production CTE, Typing or office tech.

Official data: O*NET occupation 27-4012.

More Broadcasting, Radio & Podcasting careers

Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.