Occupation Details
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
Play prerecorded music for live audiences at venues or events such as clubs, parties, or wedding receptions. May use techniques such as mixing, cutting, or sampling to manipulate recordings. May also perform as emcee (master of ceremonies).
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Salary & Job Outlook
Starting Salary
$44,630.00
New York StateMedian Salary
$80,510.00
New York StateExperienced Salary
$116,730.00
New York StateNational Average for Comparison
New York State Job Market Outlook
Jobs Right Now (2018)
1,890
professionals in NYFuture Job Growth (2030)
2,910
+102 jobs/yearNew Jobs Every Year
329
new opportunities yearlyGrowth Rate
0.5%
projected increasePreparation: Experience, Training, and Education
The list below outlines the prior educational experience required to perform in this occupation.
Some Training - Certificate or hands-on training
Experience Requirements
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Education Requirements
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Training Details
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
Transferrable Skills and Experience
These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include orderlies, counter and rental clerks, customer service representatives, security guards, upholsterers, tellers, and dental laboratory technicians.
School Programs
The following lists school programs which are applicable to this occupation.
Licensing & Certification
State License and Certifications Requirements are not currently associated with this occupation.
Skills
Skills information is not available for this occupation.
Knowledge
Knowledge information is not available for this occupation.
Work Environment
Work Environment information is not available for this occupation.
Work Styles
Work styles information is not available for this occupation.
Tools & Technology
This list below describes the machines, equipment, tools, software, and information technology that workers in this occupation will use.
Tools
Tool information is not available for this occupation.
Technology
Technology information is not available for this occupation.
Duties
Job duties information is not available for this occupation.
Tasks
The list below outlines specific tasks that a worker in this occupation is called upon to do regularly.
- Accept music requests from event guests.
- Adhere to schedules to keep events running on time.
- Advertise services using media such as internet advertising and brochures.
- Assemble audio and video equipment.
- Collect payments from customers.
- Communicate with clients or venue owners to determine event information, such as music preferences, scheduling, and anticipated attendance.
- Conduct sound checks to ensure equipment is working and appropriate for the venue.
- Create itemized invoices to record amounts due for services rendered.
- Create tailored playlists by aligning music with event functions.
- Develop written contracts for bookings.
- Encourage guests to dance using group dances, competitions, or other party games.
- Lead party games, such as dance-offs or prize giveaways.
- Listen to music before playing at events to ensure recordings are appropriate and meet quality standards.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of music releases and trends.
- Mix, cut, or sample recorded music using DJ controllers, CDJs, or DJ mixers.
- Operate disc jockey controller and other equipment, such as microphones.
- Operate visual effects equipment, such as lights, fog machines, or lasers.
- Organize music libraries or playlists.
- Select and play music incorporating crowd preferences and mood.