Researcher (Broadcasting)

A researcher looks for background information on topics that form the content of radio or television programmes, and helps with different aspects of planning and producing the programmes.

The Work

You could be:

• working on different programmes, from quiz and chat shows to documentaries and news programmes


• researching topics on the internet (or occasionally in archives or libraries)


• finding information and getting material for presentations such as archive footage, pictures, samples or music


• checking copyright


• coming up with ideas for shows or items on shows


• finding and interviewing guests to take part in programmes


• finding and checking out possible locations for filming


• assisting with script writing, recording and editing


• possibly working on websites for programmes or operating a digital video camera.

Conditions

• You will probably work long irregular hours.


• Although you will be mostly in an office, you will sometimes travel about.


• You may sometimes have to spend overnights away from home.

Getting In

• Entry is very competitive.


• Most entrants have a degree. Any subject will do. You need 3-5 Highers to get on to a degree course.


• Postgraduate training in journalism is useful.


• It helps to have experience in journalism or broadcasting. Posts often go to those already within the organisation doing other jobs.


• You must have work or voluntary experience to start building your portfolio and make contacts. Information on unpaid internships with the BBC is available on the BBC Recruitment website.


• Researchers should have their own good contacts and know where to obtain material.


• Knowledge of a language other than English is useful.

What Does It Take?

You need:

• the ability to communicate with all kinds of people


• self-confidence


• initiative


• persistence


• research skills


• a wide range of interests


• natural curiosity


• internet skills


• knowledge of the production process


• the ability to work to tight deadlines


• accuracy in details.

Training

• Most training is on the job. Relevant training might be available through Scottish Screen or Skillset (see below).


• BBC Training and Development offers a two-day course in 'Production Research'. Visit their website for more information.


• TRC Media in Glasgow runs a Researcher Development Programme. This enables companies to employ an experienced researcher for 12 months. The project offers a salary subsidy and specialist training. Check details on the centre's website.

Getting On

• You will probably work freelance, from one temporary project to another, with gaps of unemployment between jobs. Full-time permanent contracts are rare and short term contracts are usual, with gaps between jobs.


• The number of job opportunities in broadcasting involving community languages (Gaelic, Urdu, Punjabi) is increasing.


• If you are working long-term for a company, you might try for promotion to senior researcher or associate producer. Otherwise, you could move into other areas of broadcasting: journalism, programme editing, directing, producing or presenting.

Pay

The figures below are only a guide. Actual salaries vary, depending on:

• where you work


• the size of company or organisation you work for


• whether you are freelance


• the demand for the job.

More Information

The Network scheme is run in connection with the Media Guardian Edinburgh International Television Festival (MGEITF).

The Network runs a major 5-day event each year. In August 2009 150 young people got the opportunity to work behind and in front of the camera and make useful contacts.

It also organises a series of one-day events designed to give you a taste of the different jobs that are available in the television industry, from scriptwriting to presenting. The events usually take place in the autumn and include a career surgery if you are looking for one-to-one advice.

They are free to those aged 18+ with a genuine interest in working in television.

Find information on all programmes on the MGEITF website (see Addresses). You can download application forms from their website (see Addresses).

Addresses

The following organisation(s) may be able to provide further information.