Public Affairs Specialists and Broadcast Journalists (Enlisted)
Opportunities
Public affairs specialists and broadcast journalists publish communication products through radio, television, video, and web content for worldwide distribution. They are responsible for advising leadership, public affairs planning, developing and executing information strategies, and community relations. Some are trained to operate audio and video equipment in both tactical and non-tactical environments.
Training Provided
Public affairs specialists and broadcast journalists in the Military will gain skills through classroom study and on-the-job experience.
- News, feature and sports writing and research
- Newspaper format and layout
- Photojournalism
- Radio and television programming and production
- Interviewing techniques
- Public speaking
- Media Relations
- Crisis communications
All enlisted service members complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training.
Earnings
Military pay and benefits are set by Congress, which normally grants a cost-of-living pay increase once each year. All members of the military receive "basic pay," which is the largest component of a member's pay. A member's grade (usually the same as rank) and years of service determines the amount of basic pay received. Enlisted members can progress through nine enlisted pay grades during their careers. In 2024, most enlisted personnel started as recruits at Grade E-1 ($2017/month basic pay); however, those with special skills or above average education started as high as Grade E-4 ($2634/month basic pay). In addition to pay, the military provides many of life's necessities, such as food, clothing, and housing, or pays allowances for them. Other benefits include health care, 30 days paid vacation, legal assistance, recreational programs, education assistance, and military store privileges.
Services offering this occupation
Air Force
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Navy
Space Force