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Radio Operator Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

WTTW Inc

Radio Announcer (Part-time)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Familiarity with radio broadcast systems and experience operating broadcast equipment as a radio announcer. * Strong computer skills and facility with Microsoft Office applications, Google Drive, and ...

WTTW Inc

Radio Announcer (Part-time)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Familiarity with radio broadcast systems and experience operating broadcast equipment as a radio announcer. * Strong computer skills and facility with Microsoft Office applications, Google Drive, and ...

WFMT

Radio Announcer (Part-time)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

... operating broadcast equipment as a radio announcer. • Strong computer skills and facility with Microsoft Office applications, Google Drive, and MusicMaster, and audio applications such as Adobe ...

WTTW

Radio Announcer (Part-time)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

... operating broadcast equipment as a radio announcer. • Strong computer skills and facility with Microsoft Office applications, Google Drive, and MusicMaster, and audio applications such as Adobe ...

MV Transportation

Window Dispatcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Works directly with the radio operator regarding fill buses, swap buses, operator reliefs and mechanical breakdowns. * Manage overtime operators - ensure that overtime operators are utilized and ...

MV Transportation

Window Dispatcher

Chicago, IL · On-site

$19.25/hr

Works directly with the radio operator regarding fill buses, swap buses, operator reliefs and mechanical breakdowns. * Manage overtime operators - ensure that overtime operators are utilized and ...

MV Transportation

Window Dispatcher

Chicago, IL

$19.25/hr

Works directly with the radio operator regarding fill buses, swap buses, operator reliefs and mechanical breakdowns. * Manage overtime operators - ensure that overtime operators are utilized and ...

Foresight Energy

Dozer Operator (Patton)

Litchfield, IL · On-site

$27.59/hr

... operating procedures * Operate Dozer on raw & clean coal pile and refuse area * Proper pre ... Proper communication via company radio and handheld radio * Maintain fueling and service station

Foresight Energy

Dozer Operator (Marion)

Marion, IL · On-site

$26.80/hr

... operating procedures * Operate Dozer on raw & clean coal pile and refuse area * Proper pre ... Proper communication via company radio and handheld radio * Maintain fueling and service station

Foresight Energy

Dozer Operator (Patton)

Litchfield, IL · On-site

$27.59/hr

... operating procedures * Operate Dozer on raw & clean coal pile and refuse area * Proper pre ... Proper communication via company radio and handheld radio * Maintain fueling and service station

Foresight Energy

Dozer Operator (Patton)

Litchfield, IL · On-site

$27.59/hr

... operating procedures * Operate Dozer on raw & clean coal pile and refuse area * Proper pre ... Proper communication via company radio and handheld radio * Maintain fueling and service station

Foresight Energy

Dozer Operator (Marion)

Marion, IL

$26.80/hr

... operating procedures * Operate Dozer on raw & clean coal pile and refuse area * Proper pre ... Proper communication via company radio and handheld radio * Maintain fueling and service station

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All JobsRadio Operator JobsRadio Operator Jobs in Illinois

Radio Operator information

See Illinois salary details

$12

$22

$38

How much do radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for radio operator in Illinois is $22.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radio operator?

Radio operators are professionals responsible for transmitting and receiving communications using radio equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring clear and reliable communication in various fields such as maritime, aviation, emergency services, and the military. Their duties often include monitoring frequencies, relaying messages, maintaining equipment, and following strict communication protocols. Radio operators must be skilled in using different types of radio systems and may need to obtain licenses depending on their industry and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radio operator?

To thrive as a Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio communication protocols, signal operations, and equipment maintenance, often supported by relevant technical training or military certifications. Familiarity with radio transmission equipment, encryption systems, and communication software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable, secure, and effective communication, which is critical for safety and operational success in both civilian and military contexts.

What are some common challenges radio operators face when working in remote or field environments?

Radio Operators working in remote or field environments often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication in areas with limited signal coverage, operating equipment under harsh weather conditions, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. They must be skilled at troubleshooting technical issues quickly to minimize communication downtime. Additionally, working in these settings often requires close collaboration with field teams and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

What is the difference between Radio Operator vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectRadio OperatorMarine Radio Operator
CertificationsFCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) or equivalentMarine Radio Operator Permit (MROP) or GROL
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including aviation, emergency services, broadcastingMaritime vessels, ports, and offshore platforms
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, broadcasters, private companiesShipping companies, maritime authorities, offshore oil rigs

Both roles involve radio communication skills and certifications like the GROL. However, Marine Radio Operators specifically focus on maritime communication, working primarily on ships and offshore platforms, while general Radio Operators work across diverse industries. The certifications overlap, but Marine Radio Operators require additional maritime-specific permits. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their interests and credentials.

How do you become a radio operator?

To become a radio operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training in radio communications, often provided by military, maritime, or aviation programs. Certification or licensing from relevant authorities, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), may be required depending on the industry and location. Strong communication skills and knowledge of radio equipment are essential for the role.

How long does it take to get a radio operator license?

The time to obtain a radio operator license varies depending on the country and licensing authority, but typically it involves studying for and passing a written exam that can take a few weeks to a few months. Some licenses may require additional training or practical assessments, and candidates often need to meet age and background requirements before applying.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radio Operator jobs in Illinois?

The most popular types of Radio Operator jobs in Illinois are:

What are popular job titles related to Radio Operator jobs in Illinois?

For Radio Operator jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Radio Operator jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Radio Operator jobs in Illinois are:

Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Operator job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,577 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

RADIO TALENT (P/T - PLAY BY PLAY) - WGEM

Gray Television

Quincy, IL • On-site

$18/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Gray Television rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 78 rated media

Job description

About Gray Media:
Today, we are a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia. We are the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets serving 117 full-power television markets that collectively reach approximately 37% of US television households. The portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first and/or second highest-rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such markets that were measured by Nielsen in 2025. We also own the largest Telemundo Affiliate group with 46 markets and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency offering national and local clients digital marketing strategies with the most advanced digital products and services. Our additional media properties include video production companies Raycom Sports, Tupelo Media Group, and PowerNation Studios, and studio production facilities Assembly Atlanta and Third Rail Studios.
Salary/Wage:
$18.00/hr.
Shift and Schedule:
Schedule will vary due to game times and dates.
Job Type:
Part-Time
Job Summary/Description:
WGEM is looking for a qualified candidate with knowledge of athletics to be the Play-by-Play announcer for Quincy University radio broadcasts. Prior broadcast experience is a plus.
The qualified candidate will work with the WGEM sports department. You'll be doing play-by-play announcing for Quincy University football, men's basketball, and some women's basketball games.
Please note: the primary job responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the duties listed above
Qualifications/Requirements:
- Team player with professional attitude and strong communication skills
- Must have great attention to detail
- Ability to multitask under time-sensitive deadlines
- Strong technical and computing skills
If you feel you're qualified and want to work with a great group of people, go to https://gray.tv/careers#currentopenings, you may type in the job title, station call letters, or click on "apply now", upload your resume and references
WGEM-TV/Gray Media is a drug-free company
Additional Info:
Gray Television provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Gray Television complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, and transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Gray Television expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of Gray's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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