Production planner, radio / TV

What does a production planner in radio and TV do? – Tasks and work environment

A production planner in radio and TV is responsible for coordinating and planning the production of programs, segments, and broadcasts. The work often involves creating detailed schedules, booking resources such as personnel and technology, and maintaining ongoing communication with various departments and external suppliers. The production planner acts as a central link between editorial, technical, and production teams, and must quickly solve problems that may arise during planning and production phases. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, multiple simultaneous tasks, and variable working hours, especially during live broadcasts or larger productions.

Salary development over time

The salary for a production planner in radio and TV has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,400 SEK per month, increasing the following year to 47 000 SEK, which represents an increase of about 8.3%. Between 2023 and 2024, the average salary slightly decreased to 45 700 SEK, a decline of approximately 2.8%. This slight downward trend may be due to changes in demand, altered budget frameworks within the media industry, and an increased surplus of qualified applicants. Despite these fluctuations, salaries remain competitive compared to similar professions within culture, media, and design.

Production planner in radio and TV salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 54,000 SEK/month (male, private sector)
• Hourly wage: 275 SEK
• Women: 47 400 SEK/month
• Men: 44 100 SEK/month
• Women's salary as percentage of men's: 107%

Education and qualifications

To work as a production planner in radio and TV, a post-secondary education in media production, journalism, or similar fields is usually required. Practical experience from the media industry and good knowledge of production processes are highly meritorious. Technical understanding, organizational skills, and familiarity with digital planning and coordination tools are often demanded as well.

• Post-secondary education: Media production, journalism, or similar (2–3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Project management, scheduling, technical production
• Internship: Common within educational programs
• Prerequisites: High school diploma, preferably with a focus on media
• Industry experience: Very meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

Production planners in radio and TV are often offered benefits such as flexible working hours, wellness allowances, opportunities for remote work, and access to modern technology. Some employers also provide skills development, extra vacation days, or compensation for unsociable hours, especially during live broadcasts and broadcasts outside regular hours.

Competition and challenges

The profession of production planner in radio and TV is characterized by high competition, where the number of qualified applicants often exceeds the number of available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for directors and producers, where production planners are included, job opportunities nationally are small, and the recruitment situation is marked by an oversupply. Over the next five years, demand is expected to remain unchanged, meaning competition is likely to persist. Success requires relevant education, experience, and a strong industry network.

Tips for aspiring radio and TV production planners

To succeed as a production planner in radio and TV, it is important to be organized and have good coordination skills, which facilitate managing multiple projects simultaneously. Being communicative and attentive helps in collaboration with various professional groups and when quick decisions are needed. Flexibility and stress tolerance are vital, especially during live broadcasts or when unexpected events occur. Building a strong industry network can open doors to new projects and job opportunities. Gaining practical experience early through internships or part-time jobs during studies is advantageous. The ability to quickly familiarize oneself with new technical solutions and digital tools provides additional competitive advantages. Staying updated on developments in media and production is also essential to remain relevant in the job market.

Key facts about production planners in radio and TV

• Educational level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Fast-paced, often project-based
• Typical employment: Permanent or project-based
• Demand: Limited opportunities, oversupply of applicants
• Special skills: Planning tools, technical understanding, industry experience

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a production planner in radio and TV can progress to roles such as production manager, project leader, or other senior positions within media production. Some choose to specialize in specific areas, such as live production or digital broadcasting, while others move into editorial roles or work on larger productions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for directors and producers of film and theater, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and job opportunities are considered limited due to an oversupply of applicants. However, data shows there are 620 job openings within the profession, indicating regional differences and opportunities for those with the right skills and networks.

Common questions about production planners in radio and TV

• What does a production planner in radio and TV earn?
  - The average salary is 45 700 SEK per month, with variations between 39,600 SEK and 54,000 SEK depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• Why do women earn more than men in this profession?
  - Women in the profession have an average salary that corresponds to 107% of men's, which may be due to factors such as education level, experience, and employer type.
• What education is required to become a production planner in radio and TV?
  - Post-secondary education in media production, journalism, or similar fields is recommended, often combined with practical experience.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The job market is characterized by high competition and an oversupply of applicants, but there are still several hundred job openings within the profession.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Salary levels can vary between regions and employers, with higher salaries often in metropolitan areas and within the private sector.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include flexible working hours, wellness allowances, opportunities for skills development, and sometimes remote work options.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - After several years of experience, one can advance to roles such as production manager, project leader, or specialize within different areas of production.