Media Researcher
What is the work like?
As a researcher in the media, it would be your job to find the information, people and places for television, radio and film productions.
You might be responsible for anything from researching factual information for documentaries to finding studio audiences and guests for entertainment shows. In some jobs you might be involved in developing and researching ideas for new programmes.
Depending on the type of production, your tasks could include:
- discussing programme ideas and research needs with producers and directors
- finding and checking information, using sources such as the internet, libraries and museums
- searching media libraries and archives for music, photographs and film footage
- writing briefs for presenters, or briefing scriptwriters
- checking copyright and arranging permission to use archive material
- finding and interviewing programme contributors
- scouting for locations
- keeping detailed records
- researching and writing content for websites linked to TV programmes and films.
For some jobs on factual programmes, you may also operate digital video (DV) cameras or editing equipment.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You could become a researcher from various backgrounds and experience. For instance, you might be employed on a factual programme because you have specialist qualifications and knowledge of its particular subject. Alternatively, you might start as a runner or production assistant in the television industry, and work your way up to researcher as you prove your skills, initiative and enthusiasm.
You could also move into programme research if you have a background as a journalist or researcher in a non-media field such as social or political research.
Whatever your background, you will need to gain practical experience of the production process and develop a network of contacts in the industry. You can start to build relevant experience through being involved with activities like:
- student film or TV productions
- work experience on local newspapers or student publications
- hospital or community radio
- unpaid work placements on TV or radio productions
- work in film archives or picture libraries.
You may find it helpful to take a course in media production, as the most useful ones include work placements and the chance to gain practical skills. See Skillset’s website for details of industry-endorsed courses such as BTEC HNDs, degrees, postgraduate courses and the new City & Guilds (7502) Certificate for Audiovisual Industries Induction.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you are working as a researcher, you will develop your skills on the job as your experience grows.
You may find further development opportunities with television broadcasters and regional screen agencies, which sometimes offer training programmes for new entrants and established researchers. Contact Skillset Careers for information about any available schemes.
As an experienced researcher, you could also take short courses in various business and production skills, which are run by film schools, private training companies and organisations such as the Producers’ Alliance for Cinema and Television (PACT). See Skillset's website to search for courses and for information about how to fund your training as a freelance in the media.
Where can I go for more information?
373-377 Clapham RoadLondon
SW9 9BT
Glasgow
G2 4QE
Tel: 0141 302 1700
Glasgow
G2 2ND
Tel: 0141 568 7113
London
W1T 1LN
Tel: 020 7255 1444
1 Procter Street
Holborn
London
WC1V 6DW
Tel: 020 7067 4367
21 Caledonian Road
London
N1 9GB
Tel: 0808 100 8094 (Scotland)
Tel: 08000 121 815 (Wales)
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
Freelance researchers are usually paid a fee for each contract, and there may be gaps between contracts.
Freelance rates can vary widely, and may be negotiated based on the type of production and your track record. Contact the Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU) for current pay guidelines.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your working hours could be long and irregular, and may include evenings and weekends depending on the needs of the production.
You would work mainly in offices and studios, spending much of your time using the telephone and the internet. You may also need to make research trips, which can involve travel throughout the UK or even abroad.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- good written and spoken communication skills
- excellent research skills
- good organisational and administrative skills
- a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail
- the ability to work well on your own and as part of a team
- creativity and initiative
- patience and determination
- multi-tasking ability and a flexible approach to work
- the ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
What opportunities are there?
You would normally be employed on freelance contracts by television broadcasters, independent production companies or in factual radio production. Competition for work is strong.
With experience, you could supervise a research team on larger productions, or you could move into an assistant producer role.
Some jobs are advertised in the industry press and websites. However, it is more common to get work by contacting companies yourself, networking and word of mouth, and listing yourself on a database of experienced media personnel.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and making contacts (links open in new window):
Mandy.com
Broadcast Freelancer
BBC Recruitment
Grapevine Jobs
The Knowledge (contacts directory)
Kays Production Guide (contacts directory)
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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