How to Become a Broadcast Technicians in California
Broadcast Technicians in California earn a median salary of $73,780/year, which is 37% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a broadcast technicians takes home approximately $3,362/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a broadcast technicians can afford in California
Becoming a broadcast technicians in California
Meet education requirements
Broadcast Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many broadcast technicians positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for broadcast technicianss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 2,520 broadcast technicians. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim.
Broadcast Technicians salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $78K | $37.34/hr | 460 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $76K | $36.51/hr | 1,340 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $72K | $34.69/hr | 70 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $66K | $31.89/hr | 60 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $66K | $31.77/hr | 110 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $65K | $31.07/hr | 110 |
| Fresno | $63K | $30.11/hr | 70 |
| Bakersfield-Delano | $46K | $22.14/hr | 40 |
Broadcast Technicians salary range in California
Broadcast Technicians careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a broadcast technicians make in California?▼
The median broadcast technicians salary in California is $73,780 per year ($35.47/hr). This is 37% above the national median of $53,920. Salaries range from $36,710 to $126,660.
What are the requirements to become a broadcast technicians in California?▼
Broadcast Technicians positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a broadcast technicians afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $73,780, a broadcast technicians in California would take home approximately $4,774/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 29.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for broadcast technicians in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for broadcast technicians in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($77,660), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($75,940), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($72,160). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for broadcast technicians?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $73,780 salary, this means roughly $3,001/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.