MC COMMUNITY OVERVIEW

MC CAREER PATH 

General Description

Mass Communication Specialists tell the Navy's story to support the commander's overall communication goals. They define communication problems, ideate solutions, create multimedia products, and evaluate the success of media campaigns. MCs conduct research and identify target audiences, design print publications and digital media products, and create illustrations and graphics. They develop multimedia content including video, still images, digital graphics, web products, news and feature stories, blogs, and press releases. In addition, they create media project plans and communication plans, and evaluate the success of these plans and campaigns by conducting research, analyzing data, and providing feedback to leadership. Senior MCs serve as communication advisors to commanders, developing content strategies, creating data stories, and optimizing communication solutions. Senior MCs also prepare unit commanders for media interaction, press conferences and public speaking. Additionally, they may speak to the press on behalf of their command.
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What They Do

The duties performed by MCs include:

• Prepare and write news and feature articles for publication

• Photograph events for publication and historic documentation

• Operate and maintain a variety of state-of-the-art still and video cameras

• Operate computer-based graphics software and desktop publishing systems

• Create original visual information displays and graphics

• Multi-media design and production

• Design and manage public and secure websites

• Layout and design military newspapers and magazines

• Manage radio and television stations

• Operate video and electronic imaging equipment

• Operate digital electronic reproduction equipment

• Edit video news, features, and documentation

• Shoot still photographs and video for accident or incident investigations

• Conduct interviews

• Market stories

• Perform as a Public Affairs Officer

Working Environment

Mass Communication Specialist may work outdoors or inside, on board aircraft carrier flight decks, in the field with combat construction units, or in air-conditioned broadcast stations. Work varies from using precision computer graphics equipment in an office, to strenuous work throughout a ship or station. Most MCs work on projects alone or with small teams, normally with little supervision. Their work is primarily mental and creative.
 
Requirements

ASVAB: VE + AR = 115 and VE = 53 (VE is not waiverable); or PC + AR = 115 and VE = 53 (VE not waiverable)
Must be eligible for a Security clearance
60 month obligation
Must be a U.S. Citizen
Normal color perception is required

Notes

Mass Communication Specialist must relate to people in a creative and professional manner. They need above average writing and speaking skills, creativity, curiosity and an interest in people, ideas and information. Also important are a good memory, maturity, and a good personal appearance.  Other necessary qualities are the ability to do detailed work and keep records, manual dexterity, and a good sense of teamwork.