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Dj Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Hornblower

City Cruises DC - DJ in House

Washington, DC · On-site

$25/hr

The Cruise Director / DJ is engaging and able to assess and exceed the entertainment expectations of our guests. Duties and Responsibilities: * Curate and create playlists suitable for different ...

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Dj information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$42

$79

How much do dj jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for dj in Reston, VA is $42.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.00 and $70.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Dj vs Music Producer?

AspectDjMusic Producer
CredentialsNone required, but DJ-specific training or certifications can helpMusic production courses, audio engineering certifications
Work EnvironmentClubs, events, radio stations, festivalsRecording studios, home studios, production companies
Industry UsagePerforming live, mixing tracks for audiencesCreating, composing, and producing original music

While both DJs and music producers work with music, DJs primarily perform live by mixing existing tracks for audiences, often in clubs or events. Music producers focus on creating and producing original music in studios. Although their skills overlap, their roles differ in environment and output, with DJs emphasizing live performance and producers concentrating on music creation.

Can DJing be a career?

DJing is a viable career for individuals who have strong music knowledge, technical skills with equipment and software, and the ability to read audiences. Many DJs work as freelancers, perform at events, clubs, or festivals, and build their reputation over time. Success often depends on networking, marketing, and maintaining a consistent schedule.

What Are DJs?

A DJ, or Disc Jockey, plays music and provides entertainment for people, either on the radio or at an event. As a Radio DJ, your responsibilities and duties include monitoring the playback during your show and speaking live on-the-air between songs. On-Air DJs conduct interviews, promote events, and hold contests. An Event or Nightclub DJ usually serves as the announcer or master of ceremonies (emcee) while playing a lineup of music. Talents may also include managing digital audio and visual production equipment and turntables to create music remixes. Regardless of the type of DJ you are, you must have an outgoing personality, a love and knowledge of a wide range of music, and a proficiency in digital sound equipment and software.

How much money does a DJ make?

DJs' earnings vary based on experience, location, and event type. On average, DJs in the United States earn between $20,000 and $75,000 annually, with top professionals earning more through club residencies, weddings, and private events. Many DJs supplement income by using DJ software and equipment to perform at multiple venues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DJ, and why are they important?

To thrive as a DJ, you need a strong sense of musical timing, genre knowledge, and experience with audio mixing, often supported by hands-on practice or formal training. Familiarity with DJ software (like Serato or Traktor), professional DJ controllers, and sound systems is typically required. Outstanding crowd-reading ability, adaptability, and strong communication skills help DJs engage audiences and collaborate with event teams. These skills are essential for creating memorable experiences, maintaining high energy, and ensuring technical excellence in live settings.

How does a DJ typically collaborate with event coordinators and other performers during live events?

DJs work closely with event coordinators and other performers to ensure seamless event flow and a cohesive atmosphere. Before an event, they may meet with organizers to discuss the schedule, preferred musical genres, and special requests. During the event, DJs often coordinate with emcees, lighting technicians, and live performers to synchronize music with announcements or performances. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as DJs must adjust their sets in real time based on audience reactions and event dynamics.

What does a DJ do?

A DJ, or disc jockey, is responsible for selecting, mixing, and playing music for an audience at events, clubs, radio stations, or parties. They use turntables, mixers, and digital equipment to create seamless transitions between tracks and set the mood for the event. DJs often read the crowd to adjust their song choices and keep people engaged and entertained. Some DJs also produce their own music or remixes and may perform live sets at festivals or concerts.

Is $100 an hour good for a DJ?

A DJ earning $100 an hour is considered to be making a competitive rate, especially for experienced professionals or those performing at high-profile events. Rates can vary based on location, event type, and skill level, but $100 per hour generally reflects a solid income for freelance or professional DJs. Factors such as equipment, reputation, and certifications can influence earning potential.

How do I get hired as a DJ?

To get hired as a DJ, build a strong portfolio of mixes and performances, gain experience through local events or clubs, and develop skills with DJ software and equipment. Networking and creating an online presence can also help attract opportunities and clients.
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Infographic showing various Dj job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $89,050 per year, or $42.8 per hour.
City Cruises DC - DJ in House

City Cruises DC - DJ in House

Hornblower

Washington, DC • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Hornblower rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experiences and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water-based experiences (dining and sightseeing cruises), land-based experiences (walking and food tours) and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers land- and water-based experiences as well as ferry and transportation services. Hornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a marine services company specializing in the operation, maintenance and repair of government and privately owned vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary:
The successful Cruise Director / Disc Jockey (DJ) acts as the emcee of the cruise, providing information to guests on features of the vessels and available activities, playing and mixing music, and overseeing gaming equipment and leading interactive activities for guests. The Cruise Director / DJ is engaging and able to assess and exceed the entertainment expectations of our guests.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Curate and create playlists suitable for different times of the dining cruise, including boarding, dining, and special events.
  • Stay updated with current music trends and maintain a diverse and appealing music selection.
  • Engage with passengers and encourage participation in on-board activities.
  • Set up and operate DJ equipment, including sound systems, turntables, and lighting.
  • Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and report any issues to the cruise staff.
  • Work closely with Restaurant Managers and other staff to coordinate music with scheduled events and activities.
  • Collaborate with event planners to create themed experiences on special cruise occasions.
  • Be flexible in adapting music selections to suit the changing dynamics of the cruise, accommodating different demographics and preferences.

Other Duties and Responsibilities
  • Additional duties as assign

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • High school degree or equivalency required
  • Must have at least two (2) years of disc jockey (DJ) experience
  • Proven experience as a DJ in a hospitality or entertainment setting.
  • Proficient in using DJ equipment and software.
  • Strong knowledge of various music genres and the ability to cater to diverse audiences.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to engage and entertain guests in a dynamic environment.
  • Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Knowledge of safety protocols related to audiovisual equipment.

The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.
EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

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