Writer

Job Duties

Writers, also known as authors, create original works of fiction and nonfiction that are published in many different types of publications, including books, magazines, trade journals, online publications, company newsletters, radio and television broadcasts, motion pictures, and advertisements. Writers typically use personal computers, desktop or electronic publishing systems, scanners, and other electronic communications equipment. Some write material that is published directly on the Internet, through electronic newspapers and magazines and other types of electronic publications.

There are a number of different writing specializations. Writers who specialize in nonfiction need to gain credibility with their audiences by applying sound research and appropriate sources and citations. Poets, novelists, playwrights, lyricists, and screenwriters create original prose, poems, plays, and song lyrics that are either commissioned or written for hire. Newsletter writers create informational publications that are distributed to association members, corporate employees, organizational clients, or the public. Many writers work on a freelance basis, selling their services and work to various types of clients.

Job Skills

Writers should be creative, curious, and have knowledge in a wide array of subjects. They must have a passion for writing, and be able to express themselves clearly, concisely, and creatively. Writers need to have a good sense of ethics and judgment, as they often have to make important decisions regarding the material they publish. Self-motivation and perseverance are also important qualities.

Income

In 2002, writers earned a median annual salary of $42,790. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $21,320, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $85,140.

Training and Education

Writing positions usually require a college degree, typically in communications, journalism, or English, although some employers prefer a broad liberal arts background. For specialized fields, such as fashion, business, or legal writing, applicants should have specific knowledge of the subject. Valuable experience can be gained at high school and college newspapers, literary magazines, community newspapers, and radio and television stations. Internships at magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations can also be very advantageous. Interns usually write short pieces, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the business.

Writers just starting out in small firms may begin writing material immediately. However, these small organizations can be limited in opportunities for advancement, and they may not have the resources to hire writers full-time. For this reason, many writers freelance with small organizations on a project-by-project basis. Larger firms usually have a more formal structure. Newly hired employees have designated responsibilities, including researching, fact checking, or copy editing. Promotion to full-scale assignments and more important material sometimes comes slowly.

Employment

In 2002, writers held about 139,000 jobs. More than half worked in the various sectors of the information industry.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of writers is expected to increase about as fast as the average due to the increasing demand for these employees from newspapers, periodicals, book publishers, and nonprofit organizations. Opportunities will be best for those with training in a specialized field.

For more information on a career as a writer, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Video Camera Operator

Job Duties

Video camera operators operate television, video, or motion picture cameras, which they use to capture many different types of material, including television series, studio programs, news and sporting events, music videos, motion pictures, documentaries, and training sessions. The images they capture either tell a story, inform or entertain audiences, or record an event.

Video camera operators work under a variety of different titles. Videographers record images on videotape and are often employed by independent television stations, local affiliates, large cable and television networks, or smaller, independent production companies. Studio camera operators videotape broadcast studio anchorpersons and other subjects in fixed positions. News camera operators capture live, newsworthy events as part of a reporting team, and may edit their own footage on location. Cinematographers film motion pictures, and may specialize in filming cartoons or special effects. Steadicam operators carry a mounted camera on their shoulders, allowing them to move around action and capture it in clear images.

Job Skills

Video camera operators need to be accurate, patient, and detail-oriented. They must have quality eyesight, strong hand-eye coordination, and artistic aptitude. Because they are constantly working with people, they need to have well-developed interpersonal communication skills. Sometimes they are required to hold cameras by hand for extended periods of time, so they must have a certain level of physical fitness. Those who own their own business or freelance need business skills such as knowing how to submit bids, write contracts, get permission to shoot on non-public locations, obtain releases, and price their services.

Income

In 2002, video camera operators earned a median annual salary of $32,720. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $14,710, to the highest 10%, who earned more than $65,070. Median annual salaries in motion picture and video industries were $41,440, and $25,830 in television broadcasting.

Training and Education

Video camera operators usually enter the occupation through either on-the-job training or formal education. Some positions require formal education, which can be obtained through vocational schools, colleges, universities, or photographic institutes. Bachelor's degree programs provide an especially well-rounded education. It is also important for those interested in the occupation to subscribe to videographic newletters and magazines, join clubs, and apply for internships.

Once hired, entry-level video camera operators learn skills such as setting up lights, cameras, and other equipment, or adjusting cameras and deciding what material to capture. In the film and television industries, they are usually hired on a project basis on the recommendations from others in the industry. As they gain experience, video camera operators can advance to more rigorous assignments, to positions with larger or network television stations, or to director of photography positions within the motion picture industry.

Click here for more information on Video Production Schools and the programs that they offer.

Employment

In 2002, video camera operators held about 28,000 jobs. About 20% were self-employed.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, the number of video camera operators is expected to increase about as fast as the average. Growth will be caused by rapid expansion of the entertainment industry, especially motion picture production and distribution. Computer and Internet markets will also continue to grow. Growth will be tempered by the increased foreign production of motion pictures. Opportunity will be best for those who are the most creative, motivated, and adaptable.

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Translator

Job Duties

Translators convert written materials from one language to another. They first read the entire text to be translated so that they become familiar with the subject. They look up any words that they are not familiar with, and sometimes complete additional reading to answer questions they have about the text. They also communicate with the author or issuing agency to enhance their understanding of the text. They then begin the work of manipulating sentences and ideas, bringing them up to the same level of coherence as the source text. They sometimes explain cultural references that the audience of the translated work may not be familiar with. Today, almost all translation work is done on computers and transferred electronically, enabling a large percentage of translators to work from home.

There are a number of specialties within the field of translation. Judicial translators are thoroughly familiar with the language and functions of the U.S. judicial system, as well as foreign judicial systems. Literary translators translate written literature, including journal articles, books, poetry, and short stories. This is very creative work, as they must reproduce the style and tone of the original work. They often work closely with authors to best capture the intention of a work. Localization translators, a relatively recent specialization, adapt products for use in a different language and culture. These products include software, Internet sites, and products in manufacturing and other business sectors.

Job Skills

Translators need to have excellent writing skills, as well as analytical abilities. They need to be very good editors because they must create translated documents that are flawless.

Income

In 2002, translators earned a median hourly wage of $15.67. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $9.37, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $25.99.

Training and Education

Translators come from a wide range of educational backgrounds. Many translators grow up speaking more than one language, although this is not necessarily a requirement. High school can offer some preparation in the form of courses in English writing and comprehension, foreign languages, and basic computer proficiency. Spending time in foreign countries or other forms of contact with foreign language speakers can be very helpful. Translators usually need to hold at least a bachelor's degree, although they do not necessarily have to major in a language. Formal programs in translation are available at many colleges, as well as non-university training programs.

No universal form of certification exists for translators in the United States. However, translators can become certified by the American Translators Association in more than 24 language combinations. The Translators and Interpreters Guild also offers certification options. Experience is essential, as many agencies and companies hire candidates who have 3 to 5 years of experience or who have a degree in translation studies. An excellent way to gain hands-on experience in translating is to work in-house for a company. Prospective translators should gain experience any way that they can, including informal or unpaid work.

Employment

In 2002, interpreters and translators held about 24,000 jobs. More than 20% were self-employed, working only part time and relying on other sources of income.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of translators is expected to increase faster than the average due to the broadening of international ties and the increase in foreign language speakers in the United States. The highest demand exists for translators of Portuguese, French, Italian, German, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.

For more information on a career as a translator, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Technical Writer

Job Duties

Technical writers transform complex, technical information into language that is more easily understood by readers. They may write operating and maintenance manuals, catalogs, parts lists, assembly instructions, sales promotion materials, and project proposals. In the engineering industry, technical writers work closely with engineers to create written interpretations of engineering design that are accessible to non-technical readers. These technical writers prepare technical manuals and direct the creation of accompanying illustrations, photographs, diagrams, and charts.

Science and medical writers, a type of technical writer, write a number of different types of formal documents which include information concerning physical and medical science. They examine research findings, organize the information, and compose pieces of writing for advertising or public-relations efforts. Many work closely with researchers in order to become better prepared to present data and other information in written form that the public can easily comprehend.

Job Skills

Technical writers should be creative, curious, and have knowledge in a wide array of subjects, including knowledge in one specialized field. They must have a passion for writing, and be able to express themselves clearly, concisely, and creatively. Technical writers need to have a good sense of ethics and judgment, as they often have to make important decisions regarding the material they publish. Self-motivation and perseverance are also important qualities.

Income

In 2002, technical writers earned a median annual salary of $50,580. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $30,270, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $80,900.

Training and Education

Technical writing positions usually require, at the very minimum, a college degree, typically in communications, journalism, or English, although some employers prefer a broad liberal arts background. More and more technical writing jobs require a degree in a specialized field, such as engineering, business, or science. People who have good writing skills can often acquire this specialized knowledge on the job. Or they may transfer from jobs as technicians, scientists, engineers, or research assistants. Valuable writing experience can be gained at high school and college newspapers, literary magazines, community newspapers, and radio and television stations. Internships at magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations can also be very advantageous. Interns usually write short pieces, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the business.

Technical writers just starting out in small firms may begin writing material immediately. However, these small organizations can be limited in opportunities for advancement, and they may not have the resources to hire writers full-time. For this reason, many technical writers freelance with small organizations on a project-by-project basis. Larger firms usually have a more formal structure. Newly hired employees have designated responsibilities, including researching, fact checking, or copy editing.. Promotion to full-scale technical assignments and more important material sometimes comes slowly.

Employment

In 2002, technical writers held about 50,000 jobs. More than half worked in the various sectors of the information industry.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of technical writers is expected to increase about as fast as the average, although technical writers are also expected to have some of the best job prospects within the field of writing and editing. Demand for employees who can convert technical information into understandable language will be driven by growth in the fields of scientific and technical information. Extremely fast growth in the high-technology and electronics industries will create a need for more users' guides, instruction manuals, and training materials.

For more information on a career as a technical writer, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Sound Engineering Technician

Job Duties

Sound engineering technicians record, mix, synchronize, or reproduce music, voices, or sound effect using recording machines and equipment. They may work in theater productions, sporting arenas, recording studios, or movie and video productions. Closely related occupations include recording engineers, who operate and maintain video and sound recording equipment designed to produce special effects and other sounds; and sound mixers and rerecording mixers, who produce the soundtrack of movies and television shows.

Sound engineering technician jobs have been greatly altered by the transition to digital recording, editing, and broadcasting. Electronic equipment has largely been replaced by desktop software, and video and audio tapes have been replaced by computer hard drives and other types of data storage. Computer networks coupled with specialized equipment have become the standard for broadcasting. As a result, sound engineering technicians have been forced to adapt and learn software and computer networking skills.

Job Skills

Sound engineering technicians need to have skill working with electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems and equipment. It is also important for them to have good manual dexterity.

Income

In 2002, sound engineering technicians earned a median annual salary of $36,970. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $18,540, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $82,510.

Training and Education

Prospective sound engineering technicians should take high school courses in math, physics, and electronics. Another source of valuable experience is building electronic equipment from hobby kits, as well as working for campus radio and television stations. Sound engineering technicians can advance to jobs such as supervisory technician or chief engineer. A college degree in engineering is required in order to advance to chief engineer at a larger television station.

The most effective way to train for a career as a sound engineering technician is to enroll in a technical school community college, or university program in electronics, computer networking, or broadcast technology. New employees usually learn on the job from more experienced technicians and supervisors. Some begin their careers working in smaller, local stations and, after gaining valuable experience, move on to larger stations and networks. Quite a few employers offer programs in which they will pay the tuition and expenses for courses and seminars that improve the skills of their employees and help keep them updated on the latest developments in the field.

Employment

In 2002, sound engineering technicians held about 13,000 jobs. Television jobs are usually located in cities, but radio jobs can be found even in small towns. New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. offer the highest-paying jobs.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of sound engineering technicians is expected to increase faster than the average. Advancements in technology will increase the abilities of technicians to produce higher quality radio and television programming. Job growth will be limited by the consolidation in ownership of television and radio stations. In the cable and pay television sector of the industry, employment growth will be higher.

For more information on a career as a sound engineering technician, please see our directory of Media Production Schools

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Radio Operator

Job Duties

Radio operators use a number of different tools to receive and transmit radio communications. They repair equipment, using electronic testing equipment, hand tools, and power tools. They have the responsibility of maintaining communications systems in good working order. In small stations, their duties are often numerous, while in larger stations they usually specialize. They may monitor and log outgoing signals and operate transmitters. They also may regulate fidelity, volume, and sound quality.

Radio operator jobs have been greatly altered by the transition to digital recording, editing, and broadcasting. Electronic equipment has largely been replaced by desktop software, and video and audio tapes have been replaced by computer hard drives and other types of data storage. Computer networks coupled with specialized equipment have become the standard for broadcasting. As a result, radio operators have been forced to adapt and learn software and computer networking skills.

Job Skills

Radio operators need to have skill working with electrical, electronic, and mechanical systems and equipment. It is also important for them to have good manual dexterity.

Income

In 2002, radio operators earned a median annual salary of $31,530. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $17,380, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $56,340.

Training and Education

Radio operator positions do not normally require any type of formal training, and many entry-level positions include on-the-job training. However, formal training can give candidates a huge advantage over the competition. Prospective radio operators can take high school courses in math, physics, and electronics. Another source of valuable experience is building electronic equipment from hobby kits, as well as working for campus radio and television stations.

The most effective way to train for a career as a radio operator is to enroll in a technical school community college, or university program in electronics, computer networking, or broadcast technology. New employees usually learn on the job from more experienced technicians and supervisors. Some begin their careers working in smaller, local stations and, after gaining valuable experience, move on to larger stations and networks. Quite a few employers offer programs in which they will pay the tuition and expenses for courses and seminars that improve the skills of their employees and help keep them updated on the latest developments in the field.

Employment

In 2002, radio operators held about 3,000 jobs. New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. offer the highest-paying jobs.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of radio operators is expected to decline because more and more stations are utilizing remote transmitters. Advancements in technology will increase the abilities of operators to produce higher quality radio and television programming. Job growth will be limited by the consolidation in ownership of television and radio stations.

For more information on a career as a radio operator, please see our directory of Broadcasting Schools

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Public Relations Specialist

Job Duties

Public relations specialists work for various types of organizations, such as businesses, nonprofit associations, universities, and hospitals. They are responsible for coordinating many different kinds of projects concerning media and consumer relations; interest-group representation; political campaigns; conflict mediation; or employee and investor relations. They operate as advocates for organizations and are increasingly relied upon by management to supply sound strategic advice regarding how to best maintain positive relationships with the organization's targeted section of the public. Public relations specialists also work to understand the attitudes and concerns of consumers, employees, and other groups, as well as how best to facilitate communication and cooperation between these various groups.

Public relations specialists create working relationships with key individuals in broadcast and print media. They write press releases and use their media contacts to help them place the information in the most effective media sources. They often act as spokespersons for organizations, and may arrange meetings or other functions in which members of an organization meet with the public. They may assist an organization's representatives in preparing presentations and speaking engagements. Public relations specialists in government are sometimes referred to as press secretaries, public affairs specialists, or communication specialists, and are responsible for informing the public regarding government activities.

Job Skills

Aspiring public relation specialists should have a personality that is outgoing and confident. They should have a passion for motivating people. They need to be able to work well in a team setting, yet also have a high degree of competitiveness. Decision-making, problem-solving, and research skills are vital. They also need to have creativity, initiative, sound judgment, and the ability to express themselves clearly and concisely.

Income

In 2002, public relations specialists earned a median annual salary of $41,710. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $24,240, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $75,100. The following shows the median annual salaries in the industries employing the highest number of public relations specialists:

• Advertising and related services -- $48,070
• Local government -- $42,000
• Business, professional, labor, and political organizations -- $39,330
• Colleges, universities, and professional schools -- $36,820

Training and Education

No specific entry requirements exist for public relation specialists. The most common educational background is a college degree, plus experience in the field through an internship. Programs in public relations are offered at many colleges and universities across the U.S. Many of these schools will help students secure internships, an increasingly vital component of getting hired. Quite a few public relations specialists get started by doing public relations work in the Armed Forces. Some large organizations offer formal training programs for newly hired employees. Public relations specialists can become accredited through the Public Relations Society of America by demonstrating 5 years of experience and passing an extensive 6-hour test. The International Association of Business Communicators also offers accreditation.

Employment

In 2002, public relations specialists held about 158,000 jobs. Most worked in service industries, such as advertising and related services; health care and social assistance; educational services; and government.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of public relations specialists is expected to increase faster than the average, due to the increased competitiveness in the world of business and the high value now placed on public relations maintenance by organizations. Competition will be high for entry-level jobs. Opportunities will be best for those with a bachelor's degree in some combination of journalism, public relations, or advertising, and who have completed an internship in the field.

For more information on a career as a public relations specialist, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Multimedia Artist

Job Duties

multimedia artists create special effects and animated images for movies, television programs, and computer games. They either draw by hand of use computers to design the large series of pictures that form animated images. Most multimedia artists work in the motion picture, video, advertising, and computer systems design industries. Some multimedia artists create storyboards (presentations in a series of scenes similar to a comic strip) for commercials that help advertising agencies decide which commercials to produce. They may also draw storyboards for movies and animated programs. Storyboards help guide the placement of actors and cameras in the television and motion picture industries, as well as other pre-production details for commercials.

Job Skills

multimedia artists should be highly creative and have an aptitude for visual design and drawing. They need to be able to work well with a team. multimedia artists who are self-employed should have an entrepreneurial spirit and be very self-motivated.

Income

In 2002, multimedia artists earned a median annual salary of $43,980. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $25,830, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $85,160. In the motion picture and video industries, multimedia artists earned a median annual salary of $58,840.

Training and Education

There are many educational paths that lead to employment as a multimedia artist. Some artists attend colleges or universities where they earn a Bachelor in Fine Arts (BFA) or Master in Fine Arts (MFA). These programs usually include courses in English, social science, and natural science, as well as art history and studio art. Many independent schools of art and design offer fine arts training in the form of an Associate in Art or Bachelor in Fine Arts degree. These programs focus more on the studio training aspect, rather than the general education found in university settings. Most programs include a training component in computer graphics and other techniques. More than 200 postsecondary institutions are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.

When employers of multimedia artists are deciding who to hire for full-time jobs or contract work, they often rely heavily on the artists' portfolio. The portfolio demonstrates an artist's talent and skill and includes handmade, computer-generated, photographic, or printed samples of the artist's work. Internships are also an excellent way to acquire skills, demonstrate experience in the field, and enhance portfolios. multimedia artists who work for advertising agencies usually begin completing simple tasks and practicing their skills on the side. Many multimedia artists freelance part-time while holding another full-time job until they gain more experience and recognition.

Employment

In 2002, artists, including multimedia artists, held about 149,000 jobs. More than 50% were self-employed.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of multimedia artists is expected to increase about as fast as the average. However, competition for these jobs is expected to be high. Many young people are attracted to this occupation, wishing to develop their talent and creative ability in a lucrative way. This will increase competition for both salaried positions and freelance work. Opportunities will be best for those who have mastered their specific artistic techniques, and who also have highly developed computer skills.

For more information on a career as a multimedia artist, please see our directory of schools offering Multimedia Training

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Journalist

Job Duties

Journalists occupy a crucial position in U.S. society, gathering information, relating stories, and broadcasting news that keeps the public informed on topics such as local, State, national, and international events; the actions of public officials, corporate executives, special-interest groups, and other people of power and influence; and communicate points of view on current issues that affect public life.

Journalists fall into a number of specialized categories. Newscasters present news stories, communicate on the air with live reporters, and explain video images and other transmissions. Weathercasters report on the current and forecasted state of the weather using information from satellites, weather services, and weather bureaus. Sportscasters present news about sports, including interviews with sports stars and descriptions of sporting events. Reporters investigate news stories, interview people, examine documents, and take notes and photographs at a scene; then they organize this material and write stories for print or broadcast. News correspondents are stationed in large U.S. or foreign cities and report on news that happens in that city.

Job Skills

Journalists must have good physical and emotional stamina to deal with the more challenging aspects of the occupation such as tight deadlines, irregular hours, and dangerous assignments. They should have persistence, initiative, poise, resourcefulness, and a good memory. They must be comfortable with many new people and new places. On-air positions require a pleasant voice and attractive appearance.

Income

In 2002, journalists earned a median annual salary of $30,510. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $17,620, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $69,450.

Training and Education

For a majority of journalism jobs, most employers prefer to hire applicants who have a bachelor's degree in journalism or mass communications. Some employers hire applicants who have majored in other subjects. Employers also prefer applicants who have gained experience through school newspapers or school broadcasting stations, or who have completed internships. Some larger organizations prefer applicants who have a degree in a specialty such as economics, political science, or business. Over 400 colleges and universities offer bachelor's degree programs in journalism, including courses in liberal arts, mass media, basic reporting and copy editing, history of journalism, and press law and ethics.

Community and junior colleges offer other options for journalism credit that can usually be transferred to a 4-year institution. 120 schools offered master's degree programs in journalism, and 35 offered a Ph.D. degree. Graduate programs are designed to prepare graduates either for news careers or for careers such as journalism teachers, researchers, theorists, and advertising and public relations workers. An excellent way to prepare for a journalism career while in high school is to take courses such as English, journalism, and social studies. College liberal arts programs in English, sociology, political science, economics, history, and psychology can also form a solid foundation. Practical experience is just as important as education when employers make hiring decisions. Many students have already gained experience by the time they graduate through internships or part-time summer jobs.

Employment

In 2002, journalists held about 66,000 jobs. 60% worked for newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers. 25% worked in radio and television broadcasting. Only 4,100 were self-employed.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of journalists is expected to increase more slowly than the average. This will be due to mergers, consolidations, and closures of newspapers, as well as a decrease in circulation, increased expenses, and a decline in advertising profits. The highest amount of opportunity will be in smalltown and suburban newspapers and radio and television stations.

For more information on a career as a journalist, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Interpreter

Job Duties

Interpreters convert one spoken language into another spoken language, or sign language into spoken language. Before they arrive at the job site, they usually spend time researching and familiarizing themselves with the subject matter to be covered, sometimes creating a list of common words and phrases. Some work, such as telephone interpretation, may not require their physical presence, but most do require them to travel to a job site so they can observe the person speaking. The work of interpreters is divided into two categories: simultaneous and consecutive. In simultaneous interpretation, interpreters listen and speak (or sign) at the same time. In consecutive interpretation, interpreters begin talking only after the speaker (or signer) has completed conveying their thought.

There are a number of specialties within the field of interpretation. Conference interpreters work in international and diplomatic conferences, as well as other international events. They are usually highly skilled in multiple languages and simultaneous interpretation. Escort interpreters assist foreign visitors to the U.S. or U.S. travelers abroad, ensuring that they can communicate during their travels. Judiciary interpreters facilitate communication in the courtroom between English-speaking and non-English-speaking witnesses.

Job Skills

Interpreters need to pay extra attention to the details of communication. They must be able to understand both languages completely, and have the ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly and concisely. A strong memory, excellent research and analytical skills, and good mental dexterity are also crucial skills for the job.

Income

In 2002, interpreters earned a median hourly wage of $15.67. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $9.37, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $25.99.

Training and Education

Interpreters come from a wide range of educational backgrounds. Many interpreters grow up speaking more than one language, although this is not necessarily a requirement. High school can offer some preparation in the form of courses in English writing and comprehension, foreign languages, and basic computer proficiency. Spending time in foreign countries or other forms of contact with foreign language speakers can be very helpful. Interpreters usually need to hold at least a bachelor's degree, although they do not necessarily have to major in a language. Formal programs in interpretation are available at many colleges, as well as non-university training programs.

Interpreters can become certified through the Federal courts in Spanish, Navaho, and Haitian Creole. Court interpreters can also become certified by the National Association of Judiciary Interpreters and Translators. The U.S. Department of State offers has a three-test series for interpreters, including simple consecutive interpreting, simultaneous interpreting, and conference-level interpreting. Sign language interpreters can become certified through either the National Association of the Deaf or the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf. Experience is essential, as many agencies and companies hire candidates who have 3 to 5 years of experience or who have a degree in translation studies.

Employment

In 2002, interpreters and translators held about 24,000 jobs. More than 20% were self-employed, working only part time and relying on other sources of income.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of interpreters is expected to increase faster than the average due to the broadening of international ties and the increase in foreign language speakers in the United States. This has created high demand for interpreters, especially in urban areas in California, New York, and Washington, D.C.

For more information on a career as an interpreter, please see our directory of schools offering Media Training

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Film And Video Editor

Job Duties

Film and video editors work in motion pictures and television to create storyline continuity within a film. For each scene in a motion picture or television show, they are given multiple shots from different angles. They evaluate scenes to determine their dramatic and entertainment value. Then they choose the best shots for each scene and then combine them to form a coherent sequence of scenes. Sometimes they may decide to cut certain scenes altogether. They attempt to balance elements such as photography, performance, consistency, and timing.

Film and video editors often are required to cut a piece down to a specified length. They use editing equipment to insert dialogue, music, and sound effects. They use computers to monitor film and video, as well as make adjustments. They often work closely with sound effects editors, who analyze the sound requirements of the film or video, record sounds, and create soundtracks; music editors, who determine the music needed for a film, locate the right music if an original score is not used, and synchronize music with film; and assistant editors, who complete preparation work, oversee interns, arrange scheduling, and offer general support to film and video editors.

Job Skills

Film and video editors should be creative and have sound judgment and good vision. They must be good at organizing large quantities of information. They should have a discerning and critical mind. They need to be fast learners and able to adapt quickly to new challenges during the editing process. They should have well-developed interpersonal communication skills, as they usually work with a team on each project.

Income

In 2001, film and video editors working in California earned an average hourly wage of $20.99 per hour, ranging from $12.44 to $27.79 per hour. Their average annual earnings were $43,669. Due to the higher degree of skill involved in film editing, earnings in the motion picture industry tended to be higher than in television.

Training and Education

The entry-level position in this occupation is apprentice film editor, which usually requires a bachelor's degree in filmmaking. This is not a strict requirement, though, and quite a few editors do not have a bachelor's degree. Employers look favorably upon work experience in a university or college film department. Film and video editors are not required to have a State license or certificate. They often are required to take continuing education courses in order to stay informed about current trends and changes in the industry. An effective way for film and video editors to increase employment opportunities is to learn as much as possible about the different computer-based editing systems. These computer-based systems are becoming more and more common, and will eventually replace traditional editing techniques altogether.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of film and video editors is expected to increase faster than the average. Competition will be high for these highly desirable jobs. Opportunities will be best for those who have a bachelor's degree in film studies, or who have experience with computer-based editing systems.

For more information on a career as a film and video editor, please see our directory of schools offering Video Production Training

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Editor

Job Duties

Editors sometimes compose original work, but mostly they review, rewrite, and edit the work that has already been created by writers. Their responsibilities are different depending on the type of organization they work for and their position within that organization. They may plan the content of books, technical journals, trade magazines, and other general-interest publications. They may review drafts of work, edit writing, suggest improvements, and develop titles. They also may direct the production of publications. Editors in the book-publishing industry are responsible for reviewing book proposals and deciding if they want to purchase the publications rights from the author.

There are many different types of editors in the magazine and newspaper industry. Assistant editors are responsible for specific subjects, including local news, international news, feature stories, and sports, among others. Executive editors manage assistant editors and usually have authority regarding the final editing decisions. Managing editors make sure the daily operations of the news department run smoothly. Assignment editors divide assignments between reporters. Copy editors review and edit the work of reporters, checking for accuracy, content, grammar, and style. In smaller organizations, a single editor may perform all of these various functions.

Job Skills

Editors should be creative, curious, and have knowledge in a wide array of subjects. They must have a passion for writing and editing, and be able to express themselves clearly, concisely, and creatively. Editors need to have a good sense of ethics and judgment, as they often have to make important decisions regarding the material they publish. Self-motivation and perseverance are also important qualities.

Income

In 2002, editors earned a median annual salary of $41,170. Earnings ranged from the lowest 10%, who earned less than $24,010, and the highest 10%, who earned more than $76,620.

Training and Education

Editing positions usually require a college degree, typically in communications, journalism, or English, although some employers prefer a broad liberal arts background. For specialized fields, such as fashion, business, or legal editing, applicants should have specific knowledge of the subject. Valuable experience can be gained at high school and college newspapers, literary magazines, community newspapers, and radio and television stations. Internships at magazines, newspapers, and broadcast stations can also be very advantageous. Interns usually write short pieces, conduct research and interviews, and learn about the business.

Editors just starting out in small firms may begin editing material immediately. However, these small organizations can be limited in opportunities for advancement, and they may not have the resources to hire editors full-time. Larger firms usually have a more formal structure. Newly hired employees have designated responsibilities, including researching, fact checking, or copy editing. Promotion to full-scale assignments and more important material sometimes comes slowly.

Employment

In 2002, editors held about 130,000 jobs. More than half worked in the various sectors of the information industry.

Job Outlook

Between 2002 and 2012, employment of editors is expected to increase about as fast as the average due to the increasing demand for these employees from newspapers, periodicals, book publishers, and nonprofit organizations. Opportunities will be best for those with training in a specialized field.

For more information on a career as a editor, please see our directory of offering Media Training

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