Overview

Army public affairs broadcast specialists are involved in creating, filming, reporting, hosting and editing news and entertainment radio and television programs. They are primarily responsible for participating in and supervising the operation of audio or video news for Army units or Armed Forces Radio Television Service.

Job Duties

• Research, prepare and disseminate information through news releases, radio and television products
  
• Perform as writer, reporter, editor, videographer, producer and program host in radio and television productions
  
• Maintenance of assigned equipment, vehicles and generators
  

Requirements

Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

Training

Job training for public affairs broadcast specialists requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 12 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instructions.

Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field, where you’ll learn hands-on how to operate a video camera and program a 30-minute disc jockey show. You’ll also participate in a live-to-tape television newscast where you’ll work as anchor, control -room operator, director and cameraperson.

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Videography and video editing
  
• Voice skills for anchoring television news and performing as a disc jockey
  
• Writing news, feature and sports copy for radio and television
  
• Radio and television programming and production
  
• Public speaking
  
• Media relations

Helpful Skills

• Interest in English, journalism, communications, computers and photography
  
• Ability to speak clearly in front of an audience
  
• Detail oriented
  
• Enjoy researching facts and issues for news stories
  
• Can write clearly and concisely
  

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a future with wire services, radio and television stations and other visual information opportunities. You’ll be qualified to pursue a career as a newscaster, disc jockey, writer, director, producer, editor or correspondent.