The Production Assistant assists in producing program materials for NPR’s Morning Edition and Up First podcast. He/she generates story and interview ideas. The Production Assistant researches topics and guests, books live interviews and assists in writing copy for show hosts. The Production Assistant has experience producing under tight deadlines and during live shows. This person must be available to rotate into a variety of shifts including dayside, swing and overnight. Content for digital and social media is an integral part of NPR’s product, and the selected candidate will be expected to contribute material for all platforms.
- Edits audio for air.
- Prepares scripts and other material as required. This includes show opens, returns, tape and copy elements and two-way passoffs.
- Assists in producing program material for reporters, hosts, producers/editors, and others in studio and on location.
- Goes on location (both solo and with hosts) and prepares/files material for air.
- Pitches story ideas and potential show guests.
- Works under tight deadline to produce show material.
- May be given assignments on different platforms, such as multimedia production, including writing Web text, producing interactive material and multimedia content.
- At least one-year experience in broadcasting
- At least one-year experience in news journalism
- Ability to edit audio on digital editing systems
- Ability and willingness to work varied shifts
- Ability to coordinate and collaborate efficiently with hosts and Morning Edition colleagues at NPR West in Culver City, CA and other locations
- Ability to collect, organize and disseminate information effectively, especially across shifts through standard show workflow and protocols
- Strong research skills across legacy and new media data sources
- Demonstrated writing ability with an emphasis on clarity, economy of phrase and a strong grasp of the rules of grammar
- Demonstrated 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
- 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
- Experience in radio broadcasting
- Experience producing in and operating digital audio self-op facilities
- Digital media skills, including proficiency in social media as a tool for topic research, news-gathering and audience interaction
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.