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Media Planner Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Digital Media Director

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Proven experience in digital paid media planning, buying, and strategy, coupled with a hands-on, startup mentality. * Strong understanding of the sales process, with a track record of building new ...

Media Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Sellers & Associates LLC is seeking a versatile and detail-oriented  Media Analyst to join our ... and Strategic Planning applied within our clients' unique domains and context. Sellers and ...

Paid Media Specialist

Glen Allen, VA · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

The Paid Media Specialist is responsible for planning, executing, optimizing, and reporting on paid marketing campaigns that drive qualified mortgage and realty applications. As a member of the ...

... Planning applied within our clients' unique domains and context. Benefits We have Medical, Dental ... Position Description Job Title / Labor Category Title Media Analyst Location Arlington, VA 22201 US ...

Work closely with content team and creative agencies on asset needs and planning to execute effective media plans * Manage implementation and launch of always-on performance media campaigns.

... Planning applied within our clients' unique domains and context. Benefits We have Medical, Dental ... Leverage media listening tools to analyze, detect, and monitor trends and specific engagements ...

Position Summary The Social Media Specialist is responsible for planning, implementing, coordinating, and managing the organization's social media platforms and campaigns. This role plays a critical ...

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Media Planner information

See Virginia salary details

$40.2K

$74.5K

$119.5K

How much do media planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for media planner in Virginia is $74,501.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $81,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a media planner?

A media planner is an expert in all types of media, demographics, and placement strategy. Your primary job duties are to research and analyze various types of media to create cost-effective advertising strategies for your clients. Through a combination of data and metrics, you create the most inexpensive and effective advertising plans for specific products. You advise clients why and how to use magazines, radio, television, internet, and other types of media for advertising purposes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a media planner?

To thrive as a Media Planner, you need strong analytical skills, an understanding of advertising strategies, and typically a bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or a related field. Proficiency with media planning software such as Nielsen, comScore, and Google Analytics is essential for campaign planning and measurement. Excellent communication, negotiation, and organizational skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, vendors, and creative teams. These skills ensure campaigns are strategically targeted, cost-effective, and deliver measurable results for clients.

What are some common challenges media planners face when coordinating campaigns across multiple channels?

Media Planners often encounter challenges in ensuring consistent messaging and optimal budget allocation across various platforms, such as digital, print, and broadcast. Balancing client expectations with performance data and adapting to rapidly changing media trends requires strong analytical and communication skills. Effective collaboration with creative teams, vendors, and account managers is essential to overcome these challenges and deliver cohesive, high-performing campaigns.

What is the difference between Media Planner vs Media Buyer?

AspectMedia PlannerMedia Buyer
Primary RoleDevelops media strategies and plans based on target audience and campaign goalsExecutes media plans by purchasing ad space and negotiating with media outlets
Skills & CertificationsKnowledge of market research, media channels, and planning toolsNegotiation skills, media buying platforms, and vendor relationships
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning in agencies or marketing departmentsMedia outlets, ad agencies, or in-house marketing teams

While both roles collaborate closely, Media Planners focus on creating effective media strategies, whereas Media Buyers handle the execution by purchasing ad space. Understanding these differences helps organizations optimize their advertising campaigns and ensures the right skills are matched to each role.

How much do media planners make in the US?

Media planners in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $65,000 to $85,000, with entry-level positions starting lower and experienced professionals earning higher salaries. Compensation can vary based on experience, location, and the size of the employer, and many media planners use tools like media planning software and data analysis skills in their work.

Is a media planner an entry-level job?

A media planner can be an entry-level position, especially for those with a relevant degree in marketing, advertising, or communications. Entry-level roles typically involve assisting with campaign planning and learning industry tools like media buying software, with opportunities for advancement as experience grows.

What are the most commonly searched types of Media Planner jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Media Planner jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Media Planner jobs in Virginia?

For Media Planner jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Media Planner jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Media Planner jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Media Planner jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Media Planner job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Media Planner jobs in VA?

For Media Planner jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Media Planner job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,501 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

Integrated Senior Media Planner

Daviselen Advertising

Arlington, VA • On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Manages the day-to-day process of all media planning efforts for Clients of responsibility.Responsibilities
  • Implements the process and assists with the management of the strategic and tactical execution of all media products for Clients of responsibility.
  • Confers with Media Director, Clients, and/or Account Services to establish media objectives, and strategies for advertising campaigns.
  • Presents media plans to Media Director, Account Services and Client for approval and makes adjustments as necessary.
  • Writes plan presentations.
  • Recommend, evaluate and integrate emerging media opportunities.
  • Write POV’s.
  • Demonstrate a complete understanding of the Client’s business.
  • Implements the management of daily tasks in support of the media product.
  • Maintain budget control and ensure execution of media plans by authorizing approved media schedules and monitoring buys/schedules.
  • Foster a good working relationship with account and client teams to facilitate flawless execution of plans.
  • Evaluates composition of a wide range of media vehicles to determine which would most effectively reach the target audience.
  • Calculates reach and frequency of potential media vehicles.
  • Confers with media representatives to evaluate best placement.
  • Gathers statistics and prepares media plans with directives to guide the buying process.
  • Studies demographic data and consumer profiles to identify desired target audiences for print, broadcast, or online advertising.
  • Keeps current on media trends.
  • Responsible for developing the skill and knowledge base of those more junior as well as supervise, advise and counsel group in all daily activities.
  • Motivate Planners and encourage innovation and creativity throughout all projects by serving as a role model within the group/team.
  • Lead team in setting strategies for developing media plans.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree (B.A.) from a four-year college or university required.
  • 5 + years of Media Planning experience required.
  • QSR and Automotive is a plus.
  • Media Channel knowledge of TV, radio, OTT, CTV, streaming audio, OOH and direct mail.
  • Must be proficient in Microsoft Power Point and Excel.
  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
  • Strong mathematical abilities required.
  • Detail oriented with exceptional curiosity, critical thinking and solution driven capabilities.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks required.
  • Strong presentation skills preferred.
  • Excellent time-management skills.