6003 media buyer jobs found

everything you need to know about media buyers.

Having a strong presence in the media and advertising world is vital to a company’s brand awareness. Media buyers play an important role in supporting company goals by ensuring they have a strong presence in a variety of media outlets. As a buyer, you will purchase ad space and time slots on many different platforms such as radio, TV, print, billboards and online via Google and social media. Knowing your audience and understanding how and where to target them is just as important as securing media real estate. 

average media buyer salaries in the U.S.

Median media buyer salaries are around $54,000 per year. At the low end of the salary scale, you can make as low as $47,000 per year. Your salary for this role tops out around $80,000 annually. Media buyer compensation packages often have large bonus and commission components, helping to increase your overall earning potential. The type of media buyer and other details about your role can impact your average annual salary expectations. 

what media buyer jobs entail

Media buyers work in an office setting and work normal office hours. They spend much of their time working and networking with media companies and representatives. You will also spend a large portion of your time researching potential media spots and reviewing analytics. Some travel will be part of your job to attend meetings and connect with media professionals. You will report to the director of sales or director of advertising. 

your day-to-day tasks

Media buyers play a key role in securing important media spots for companies. A major part of your role is researching the best media platforms to use to connect with your audience, establish relationships with media companies and negotiate deals for prime media exposure. Some of your daily tasks in this role will include:

• purchasing media time or space from a variety of advertisers
• identifying the best media real estate in which to invest
• negotiating media deals
• conducting market research to identify the best locations to connect with the target audience
• tracking media campaigns to ensure ads appear as planned
• working with media planners, marketing and advertisers on company marketing and advertising plans
• staying up to date and looking for the latest trends in media consumption
• maintaining media buying budget
• reporting on media buying campaigns 
• networking with media companies and professionals to establish working relationships

where you can work

Media buyers usually work for large organizations or advertising agencies. Media buyer roles exist in many industries, particularly ones that rely heavily on advertising such as retail, finance, banking and insurance.  Most jobs are found in large cities like New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. 

what you bring to the table

Media buyers require a well-rounded skill set. You are required to have strong business and marketing skills to support your role. You will be expected to understand market trends, know how to reach your audience and negotiate company-friendly contracts to gain as much exposure as possible. Some of the skills companies are seeking include:

• strong communication skills
• business and technology acumen
• a detailed understanding of media buying and advertising
• exceptional interpersonal skills
• strong negotiation skills
• an analytical mindset
• strong research skills
• a strong understanding of the media landscape and emerging trends
• the ability to work under tight deadlines and in stressful situations
• an effective team player

training and certifications

Since media buying is an interdisciplinary position, candidates typically have a degree in sales, marketing, communications or design. Many do internships during college to gain experience and make connections within the industry before graduating. Some also obtain certifications in marketing and take courses in management to advance their careers. 

where your career is headed

Media buyer roles are shifting their focus to the digital space. While jobs in this area are expected to grow, they are highly competitive. Many media buyers move into advertising, marketing, promotions and sales roles at the management level. 

If you are looking for media buyer roles, Randstad USA can help you gain access to the top jobs that match your skills and experience. Contact us today to boost your job search. 

Looking to add a media buyer to your team? We can help. We can help you attract a talented pool of candidates who match your job requirements. Contact us today to enhance your recruiting efforts.