News Operations (News Ops) manages the underlying environment which supports news production. Overseeing, designing, and controlling the tools, processes, and services used to produce and deliver news content. Within News Ops is the Operations Desk (Ops Desk), the hub for production services and technical resource management.
The Production Assistant is a full-time position at the Ops Desk responsible for arranging an array of production-related services for internal and external clients; assisting with the management of media production equipment, and ensuring the efficient use of technical resources. This individual must be able to communicate effectively and demonstrate various production procedures as well as be able to handle audio production and mixing duties. This position has shifting hours that may include late evenings, weekends and holidays. The candidate for this position should be customer service oriented, pro-active at providing solutions, and focused on the details that support our team members.
- Provides operational and logistical support to the News and Programming Divisions as well as to outside clients.
- Plans for and responds to requests for studio time, audio, equipment, and other services provided by the Ops Desk.
- Ensures that the appropriate technical resources are booked.
- Fields questions regarding production processes and procedures.
- Assists staff and guests in production facilities and in the field.
- Assists with the loaner equipment process, including inventory management and demonstrating how to use equipment.
- Assists with intake processes as well as media production on multiple platforms.
- Assists with content production training as assigned.
- Regularly reviews and provides feedback on production procedures.
- Helps identify new production tools and equipment and suggestions how they might be beneficial to content production.
- Provides operational and logistical assistance during live/breaking news coverage and other special productions.
- Communicates coverage plans for live/breaking news via Squawk and ContentDepot Messaging.
- At least two years of work experience in a broadcast or multi-media environment.
- Ability to process information and solve problems quickly.
- Ability to collect, organize and disseminate critical broadcast/publication information.
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Familiarity with Microsoft Office, Apple, Google, Adobe and other cloud-based technologies.
- Familiarity with audio and/or video editing, media formats, transfer and storage technologies.
- Familiarity with content distribution and connection technologies such as ContentDepot, ISDN, FTP, IP, mobile apps, etc.
- Ability to work varied shifts.
- Proven ability to consistently work well with others, demonstrating at all times respect for the diverse constituencies at NPR and within the public radio system.
PREFERRED SKILLS
- Knowledge of audio/video post-production practices.
- Familiarity with journalistic practices.
- Familiarity with content management systems.
NPR offers a competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package including health and wellness benefits, retirement, and work/life balance programs, as well as opportunities for career growth and development.