What does a DJ do?

DJs work as entertainers in various settings, including radio stations, clubs and various venues for events. While playing recorded music to entertain the crowd is the primary duty, DJs also create an engaging, interactive experience with the crowd. For a radio DJ, that might include taking calls from listeners and playing special requests. For events, the DJ might talk to guests between songs, encourage the audience to dance or take special requests. DJs operate special sound equipment to make the music sound good. In some settings, they mix beats, scratch and use other musical techniques to create a unique listening experience. For in-person performances, the job may include coordinating lights and special effects with the music.

Another part of the job is creating revenue. Radio DJs often do this by playing ads at designated intervals or talking about sponsors. For in-person performances, DJs might receive tips from their audience.

DJ skills and qualifications

DJs are more successful if they meet prerequisite qualifications, which you can outline in your Disc Jockey job description. Those skills and qualifications include:

• Extensive knowledge of various musical genres and music trends
• Technical aptitude to use sound equipment, such as turntables and controllers, effectively
• Creativity to build unique sets and remixes
• Interpersonal skills to read the audience well
• Strong verbal communication and presentation skills
• Strong sense of timing to seamlessly blend tracks and create a consistent musical experience
• Good organizational skills

DJ experience requirements

If you’re hiring a DJ, you may prefer candidates with some experience as a DJ or experience in a similar type of role. For example, a company hiring for a radio DJ might want candidates who have previously worked in radio using similar sound equipment. Some organizations prefer experience with a certain style of music. If the job involves conducting interviews or hosting a talk show segment, candidates may need experience with those duties.

DJ education and training requirements

While DJs don’t need formal education, candidates may have a degree in a related field, such as Radio/TV/Film or Mass Communication.. DJs can often self-taught to use the sound equipment required in the field. Some receive on-the-job training or intern at a radio station to learn how to operate the equipment correctly.

Job description samples for similar positions

If a DJ job description doesn’t fit your needs, review these additional samples for similar positions:

• Actor
• Music Producer
• Entertainment Manager

DJ job description FAQs

Does a DJ have different duties in different industries?

DJs provide musical entertainment in various industries and settings with slight differences in their duties. Radio DJs often conduct interviews, introduce segments and incorporate advertisements into the programming. For events such as weddings and proms, the DJ plays requested songs, introduces special dances and keeps the crowd excited. DJs at clubs and concerts mix music and keep the crowd energized.

What makes a good DJ?

A good DJ understands different musical genres and can read an audience to select songs they’ll enjoy. It also helps to stay current on the latest songs in various genres based on the type of music they typically play. They are energetic and can set the tone for the occasion. DJs relate well to people from diverse backgrounds and are willing to take requests to keep audience members happy.

What should you look for in a DJ resume?

Check for previous experience as a DJ to show that the candidate knows how to interact with audiences. This could be through formal DJ experience, volunteer work as a DJ on a student radio station or independent contractor work as a DJ for events. Other experience working with music is also beneficial. Public speaking or being in front of a crowd through previous work experience also helps prepare a candidate for the role.

How can you make your DJ job description stand out?

When writing a Disc Jockey job description, highlight the types of music you use to find candidates familiar with those genres. Talk about special duties, such as hosting charity events or working as personalities at community festivals. Also mention special sound equipment they’ll use or unique perks, such as attending local concerts.