Discover rewarding Local TV Buying Coordinator jobs, a pivotal entry-level to mid-level role within the dynamic world of media planning and advertising. Professionals in this position serve as the operational backbone for local television advertising campaigns, ensuring that media buys are executed flawlessly, on budget, and with meticulous attention to detail. This career path is ideal for organized, detail-oriented individuals who thrive in a fast-paced agency or media buying service environment, bridging the gap between media planners/buyers and the fulfillment of advertising schedules. The core responsibility of a Local TV Buying Coordinator centers on the administrative and logistical execution of television ad purchases for specific geographic markets. They are typically tasked with inputting approved media plans into specialized buying and traffic systems, generating purchase orders, and confirming spot schedules with television station reps. A significant part of the role involves rigorous maintenance of campaign details within media software, ensuring all avails, rates, and client instructions are accurately recorded. Following the launch of a campaign, coordinators diligently pull post-buy reports to verify that advertisements aired as contracted, analyzing delivery against guaranteed ratings points (GRPs) and budget. They prepare summary reports for internal teams and clients, highlighting performance and any necessary make-goods or adjustments. Furthermore, they handle the crucial task of invoice reconciliation, matching station invoices to purchase orders and resolving any billing discrepancies to ensure timely and accurate payment. To excel in Local TV Buying Coordinator jobs, candidates generally need a strong foundational skill set. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel is paramount for data analysis, reporting, and budget tracking. Familiarity with industry-standard software platforms—such as MediaOcean, Donovan, or Strata—is a significant advantage, though many employers provide training. Key soft skills include exceptional organizational abilities, a keen eye for detail to catch errors in complex data, and effective communication skills for interacting with sales reps and internal teams. The role demands the ability to manage multiple tasks under tight deadlines, solve problems proactively, and maintain a high level of accuracy in all work. Typically, employers seek candidates with a bachelor’s degree in advertising, marketing, communications, or a related field. Prior internship experience in media or advertising is highly valued, providing practical understanding of the media landscape and workflow. Pursuing Local TV Buying Coordinator jobs offers a solid foundation for a career in media. It provides hands-on experience with the tactical execution of advertising campaigns, offering deep insight into the local TV marketplace, negotiation strategies, and campaign performance analysis. This role is a critical stepping stone for advancement into positions such as Media Buyer, Media Planner, or Account Manager, making it an excellent starting point for ambitious professionals looking to build a lasting career in the advertising industry.
