Life Kit is NPR’s brand for actionable journalism. With the journalistic rigor and in-depth reporting, Life Kit aims to help people be their better selves with podcasts, digital stories and radio pieces. We answer how-to questions on parenting, money, health, and life skills with evidence-based take-aways to help the audience think and specific tips to help them act. Our team is highly collaborative, curious, nimble, and hardworking. We are looking for a person who embodies those traits to join our team.
The Production Assistant works on all aspects of show production; supports the hosts, producer and other contributors to the program; assists in generating story and interview ideas; edits audio; conducts research and assists in arranging interviews; prepares research material; writes program copy and production material. Content for digital media is an integral part of NPR's product and the Production Assistant will be expected to contribute audio and digital material. The ideal candidate will possess strong skills in working with content management systems such as Seamus and coordinating efforts with the Online Production team.
- Researches and pitches ideas for interviews and segments.
- Conducts research and assists in arranging interviews.
- Prepares questions and approaches to host interviews.
- Pre-interviews guests and prepares research material for host.
- Edits host interviews, archive audio, and actualities.
- Works with hosts, producers, and others in arranging for related elements to complete or supplement an episode or guide.
- Drafts copy for host interviews and digital components.
- Writes open and return copy.
- Other duties as assigned.
- At least 1.5 years’ experience in broadcasting.
- At least 1.5 years’ experience in news journalism.
- At least 1.5 years’ journalism-related research, with ability to collect, organize and disseminate information.
- Strong digital media skills, including proficiency in social media as both a newsgathering technique and, especially, as a way to distribute content.
- Demonstrated ability to edit audio.
- Thorough knowledge of research tools, including computer access data banks.
- Ability to work quickly and efficiently under deadline pressure. Ability to handle more than one assignment at a time; ability to prioritize, anticipate and communicate effectively.
- Ability and willingness to work varied shifts.
- Proven ability to consistently work as part of a team, demonstrating at all times respect for the diverse constituencies at NPR and within the public radio system.
- Ability and willingness 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:
- Experience in radio broadcasting
- Experience producing in and operating digital audio self-op facilities
- Familiarity with Life Kit
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.