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Sports Broadcasting Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sports Broadcasting information

See Normal, IL salary details

$13

$15

$17

How much do sports broadcasting jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports broadcasting in Normal, IL is $15.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.81 and $15.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sports broadcasting?

Sports broadcasting is the field of media that involves reporting, announcing, and providing commentary for sporting events through television, radio, or online platforms. Sports broadcasters may work as play-by-play announcers, color commentators, sideline reporters, or studio hosts. Their job is to inform and entertain audiences by describing the action, providing analysis, and sharing stories about the athletes and teams involved. Sports broadcasting requires strong communication skills, a deep knowledge of sports, and the ability to think quickly in live environments.

What are different jobs in sports broadcasting?

There are numerous types of positions in sports broadcasting from, technicians to sound engineers to announcers. Responsibilities vary based on the job. Camera operators manage the audio and visual transmission of a TV program, using specialized techniques for filming sports. A sports broadcaster relays the news and provides play-by-play commentary on the action. Other duties involve interviewing players and staff and researching statistics to make it engaging for viewers. A sports broadcaster typically works with one news station. Qualifications to become a sports broadcaster often include a bachelor’s degree or significant experience in broadcasting, journalism, or communications.

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

To thrive as a Sports Broadcaster, you need a deep understanding of sports, excellent verbal communication skills, and typically a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with audio and video production equipment, editing software, and live broadcasting systems is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and the ability to think quickly on-air help broadcasters engage audiences and manage unpredictable situations. These skills ensure accurate, engaging, and timely sports coverage that resonates with viewers and listeners.

What are the typical challenges faced by professionals in sports broadcasting, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Sports broadcasting professionals often face challenges such as working irregular hours, managing live production pressures, and keeping up with fast-paced developments during events. It's common to work evenings, weekends, or holidays, especially during major sports seasons. To prepare, job seekers should develop strong communication and quick decision-making skills, gain experience with live broadcast technology, and build resilience for high-pressure scenarios. Networking and staying current with industry trends also help in adapting to the dynamic nature of the field.

What is the difference between Sports Broadcasting vs Sports Journalism?

AspectSports BroadcastingSports Journalism
CredentialsBroadcasting or journalism degree, communication skillsJournalism degree, writing and reporting skills
Work EnvironmentTV/radio studios, live events, on-air rolesPrint, online, digital media, field reporting
Employer & Industry UsageTV networks, radio stations, sports channelsNewspapers, online outlets, sports magazines

Sports Broadcasting focuses on delivering live or recorded sports content through TV, radio, or digital media, emphasizing on-air presentation and production. Sports Journalism involves researching, writing, and reporting sports news, often for print or online platforms. While both roles require strong communication skills and sports knowledge, broadcasting is more on-camera and production-oriented, whereas journalism centers on storytelling and reporting.

How hard is it to get a job in sports broadcasting?

Getting a job in sports broadcasting can be competitive due to high demand and limited entry-level positions. Success often requires relevant experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of broadcasting tools and techniques. Building a portfolio through internships or volunteering can improve chances of employment.

How to get a job as a sports broadcaster?

To become a sports broadcaster, gain experience through internships or entry-level roles in media, develop strong communication and on-air skills, and build a portfolio of work. A bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, or a related field is often preferred, and proficiency with broadcasting equipment and live reporting is essential.

What jobs are included in sports broadcasting?

Sports broadcasting includes roles such as sports announcers, play-by-play commentators, color analysts, sideline reporters, camera operators, producers, directors, and technical crew. These professionals work together to deliver live coverage, often requiring skills in communication, technical operation, and knowledge of sports rules and strategies.

What job categories do people searching Sports Broadcasting jobs in Normal, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Sports Broadcasting jobs in Normal, IL are:

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Sports Broadcasting jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Sports Broadcasting job openings:

Infographic showing various Sports Broadcasting job openings in Normal, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Internship, 59% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,580 per year, or $15.2 per hour.

Part-Time Board Operator

Cumulus Media New Holdings Inc.

Bloomington, IL • On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
Who We Are
CUMULUS | Bloomington features 5 stations in the Bloomington area and surrounding counties. Stations include: 101.5 WBNQ-FM Adult Top 40, 1230 WJBC-AM Talk/Sports Radio, 104.1- WBWN-FM Country, 93.7 WJBC-FM NASH plays Country music, 98.9 WJEZ is Classic Hits.
Position Overview
CUMULUS MEDIA | Bloomington is offering a great opportunity as a Part-Time Board Operator providing programming and control console support. Our ideal candidate should be highly organized with the ability to work in a fast-paced media environment. The position requires extreme reliability and flexibility. If you are a fast-learner, have a good demeanor around others, and have a passion for entertainment, read on.
Key Responsibilities & Qualifications
Key Responsibilities:
  • Running the console in a radio station control room broadcasting a variety of live or pre-recorded local and syndicated entertainment programs
  • Playing all commercials as scheduled and maintaining a commercial and transmitter log
  • Monitors and updates weather, traffic, and news reports
  • Monitor for EAS Alerts, Ambers Alerts and breaking news
  • Monitors the technical quality and accuracy of incoming and outgoing on-air programming from master control room

Qualifications:
  • Previous control console operation experience preferred
  • Audio production skills preferred
  • Ability to learn FCC rules and regulations and EAS guidelines
  • Proficient using computer systems such as Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Audition or other audio editing software preferred
  • Familiar with audio mixers preferred
  • Flexibility in scheduling required; majority of the hours are in the evenings, weekends and holidays

Pay Range
USD $15.00 - USD $20.00 /Hr.
What We Offer
  • 401K with company match
  • Focused, responsible and collaborative work environment with the ability, to ask "what if" and try innovative solutions

For immediate consideration, please visit https://jobs.cumulusmedia.com/jobs
For more information about Cumulus Media, visit our website at: https://www.cumulusmedia.com/
EEO Statement
CUMULUS MEDIA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE).