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Play By Play Broadcaster Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Play-by-play announcer Job Category: Student Hourly Job Profile: Student Help Job Summary: This role will be the audio play-by-play on our live video streams. Knowledge of sports, sports terms by ...

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How much do play by play broadcaster jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for play by play broadcaster in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a play by play broadcaster?

A Play By Play Broadcaster is a sports announcer who provides real-time narration of live sporting events. They describe the action as it happens, offering detailed commentary on plays, players, and game developments to keep listeners or viewers informed and engaged. Play by play broadcasters work alongside color commentators, who add analysis and context. These broadcasters are crucial for radio and television audiences who rely on their descriptions to follow the game, especially when they cannot see the action themselves.

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

To thrive as a Play By Play Broadcaster, you need a deep understanding of the sport, excellent verbal communication, and experience in live broadcasting, often supported by a degree in communications or journalism. Familiarity with audio equipment, broadcast software, and sometimes video editing tools is typically required. Quick thinking, a clear and engaging delivery, and the ability to work under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure accurate, entertaining, and seamless coverage that keeps audiences informed and engaged throughout live sports events.

What are some common challenges faced by play by play broadcasters during live events?

Play-by-play broadcasters often encounter fast-paced, unpredictable situations that require quick thinking and adaptability. Maintaining accuracy while delivering real-time commentary can be challenging, especially when unexpected plays or technical issues arise. Additionally, broadcasters must balance providing detailed play descriptions with engaging storytelling, all while working closely with analysts, producers, and technical staff to ensure a seamless broadcast. Strong preparation and the ability to stay calm under pressure are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Play By Play Broadcaster vs Commentator?

AspectPlay By Play BroadcasterCommentator
CredentialsBroadcasting or journalism degree, experience in sports mediaSimilar credentials, often with sports knowledge or journalism background
Work EnvironmentLive sports events, radio or TV broadcastsPre-game, in-game, and post-game analysis, studio or on-site
Industry UsagePrimarily in sports broadcasting for live eventsUsed in sports media for analysis and commentary

While both roles involve sports media, a Play By Play Broadcaster focuses on narrating live events, providing real-time descriptions. A Commentator offers analysis, insights, and opinions, often during or after the game. Both roles require sports knowledge and broadcasting skills but serve different functions in sports media coverage.

What cities are hiring for Play By Play Broadcaster jobs?

Cities with the most Play By Play Broadcaster job openings:

What states have the most Play By Play Broadcaster jobs?

States with the most job openings for Play By Play Broadcaster jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Play By Play Broadcaster jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Play By Play Broadcaster jobs are:

Infographic showing various Play By Play Broadcaster job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,416 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Sport Play-By-Play Announcer

Hobart and William Smith Colleges

Geneva, NY • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description

Description
Announce play-by-play sports including soccer, field hockey, ice hockey, lacrosse. Must be able to work with student broadcasters.
Essential Responsibilities:
  • Research opposing team and roster.
  • Announce the play-by-play of sports broadcast on WEOS and WHWS radio including but not limited to: football, soccer, field hockey, ice hockey, basketball, and lacrosse.
  • Work with student broadcasters.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of and sensitivity to unique social, cultural, and economic circumstances.
  • Demonstrate knowledge for the Colleges' educational philosophy and mission.
  • Performs other related duties as required.

Other Information:
This is a temporary, part-time, non-benefits eligible position. This position requires weekend work, as dictated by the scheduled sporting event.
Qualifications
  • Knowledge of the rules of soccer, field hockey, hockey, and lacrosse.
  • Must have knowledge of broadcast equipment.
  • Must be able to work weekends, to attend scheduled sporting events.
  • Possess strong communication skills and be willing to take initiative.
  • Strong customer service orientation; positive, helpful, resourceful
  • Highly reliable, flexible and adaptable
  • The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.

Application Instructions
Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Interested applicants are encouraged to submit a cover letter, resume and the names with contact information of at least three (3) professional references to our application service, Interfolio (utilizing the Apply link on the right). Background check required.
If you have a question or need help on uploading your application materials, please contact Interfolio's support team at help@interfolio.com or call 1-877-997-8807 between the hours of 9:00 a.m. through 6 p.m., EST, Monday through Friday.
About HWS
A liberal arts and sciences institution, Hobart and William Smith is known for consistent success in preparing students for meaningful lives and fulfilling careers through an outcomes-based focus on their futures. Our nationally ranked faculty are accessible teachers and scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. World challenges are studied in the classroom where critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills are honed. In the field, knowledge turns into discovery. In office hours, plans are carefully crafted to tie interests and talents to an academic path that motivates beyond graduation.
Our location in the heart of the Finger Lakes allows faculty, staff and students to live and work collaboratively on the banks of a resource-rich lake. Student-athletes play for 30 varsity teams boasting 24 national titles, including the 2023 and 2024 NCAA DIII Men's Ice Hockey Championships. With three graduate programs, students can build on their undergraduate degree with a Master of Arts in Higher Education Leadership, Master of Arts in Teaching, or a Master of Science in Management. Together, the experiences and mentorship at HWS prepare students to lead lives of consequence.