A thriving, mission-driven multimedia organization, NPR produces award-winning news, information, and music programming in partnership with hundreds of independent public radio stations across the nation. The NPR audience values information, creativity, curiosity, and social responsibility – and our employees do too. We are innovators and leaders in diverse fields, from journalism and digital media to IT and development. Every day, our employees and member stations touch the lives of millions worldwide.
The Associate Producer is the primary liaison between NPR and WBUR for the production of NPR segments that are included in Here & Now.
Takes large role in program/coverage planning at NPR headquarters
- Coordinates Here & Now coverage with NPR News managers and editors – securing NPR reporters, editors and bloggers for contributions to Here & Now
- Attends daily NPR editorial meetings advocating for Here & Now with NPR editors
- Participates in all Here & Now daily and weekly editorial meetings suggesting segments using NPR resources including reporters, editors and producers
- Work with various NPR desks and Digital News to advocate ideas and interview possibilities for Here & Now
- Identifies NPR pieces or tape that might be re-purposed on Here & Now
- Assigns Newsdesk/Here & Now intern show related duties
- Participates on behalf of Here & Now in the NPR dibs/chase booking system
- Researches and prepares copy for hosts
Initiates, plans and edits program material for daily show and future shows
- Generates original ideas for host interviews, reporter pieces and other show elements for Here & Now
- Research and identify potential program guests for Here & Now
- Cultivates external sources to serve as potential guests and sources for Here & Now
- Knowledgeable regarding topics and segments produced by NPR desks, shows and npr.org
- Assist Here & Now hosts in production of on-air product, including pre-interview prep time with hosts and thorough pass-off memos as necessary
- Fills in for other NPR producers and editors as assigned
- Performs other duties as assigned
Coordinates LIVE breaking news programming as assigned
- Follows news closely; identifies guests for Here & Now; prepares copy for hosts and facilitates interviews for special ‘live’ broadcast
- Consults closely with news managers at NPR and WBUR regarding breaking news and special coverage including suggestions for guests and other program segments including the use of NPR talent and resources as needed
- Conceptualizes, writes and edits news and feature content for special coverage broadcast
- Edits program materials for special coverage, live and update coverage
- Edits tape and writes continuity as needed
- Coordinates breaking news coverage for H & N between noon and 4 PM EST Monday – Friday with NPR News Operations Desk and News Managers
Required Skills:
- At least three years of experience as reporter, editor or producer
- Demonstrated writing ability
- Demonstrated ability to edit news copy
- Ability to work quickly and efficiently under deadline pressure
- Demonstrated initiative and self-starting skills, ability to work independently
- Ability to handle multiple and complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions
- 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
- Ability to and willingness to travel
- Ability to relocate. In the future, NPR may choose to transfer employees to other geographic locations. Severance provisions of the AFTRA collective bargaining agreement will apply should you choose not to accept a transfer
Preferred Skills:
- Experience on a daily news program
- Experience in public radio broadcasting
- At least one year of experience in editorial decision-making
- Experience producing on Dalet, Cool Edit, ProTools or similar broadcast digital audio workstations
- Experience working in and filing from the field
- Experience in digital news
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.