Podcast Producer

KUOW Puget Sound Public Radio is Seattle’s NPR news station. We are an independent, nonprofit news organization that produces award-winning journalism, innovative podcasts, engaging community events, and more.

We have an outstanding opportunity for a Podcast Producer 3 to assist in managing the editorial process. Produce and sound design podcast episodes including audio mixes and selection and commissioning of music and other sound elements.

Under the supervision of the Senior Editor, coach and direct the production team to deliver sound-rich narrative podcast episodes. Conceptualize and assist the Senior Editor in planning long-term and special coverage. Develop pitches and research topics.

Host content for broadcast as assigned. Oversee the sound design of episodes May develop and write online posts and broadcast spots of program content.

JOB SUCCESS SUMMARY

A successful Producer 3 in AudioShop will thrive in a creative, collaborative environment and find opportunity in ambiguity. They will have outstanding communication and planning skills, be a good listener, never shy away from speaking up while also respecting others. They will have an innate curiosity of the world and always be on the lookout for stories and ideas that would interest listeners. They have strong audio production and sound design skills. Value diversity by seeking a multitude of perspectives and striving to be inclusive and equitable.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Project Management and Long-term Planning (25%)

• Manages multiple production schedules for podcasts and special projects.

• Coaches and directs colleagues on deadlines.

• Executes work and planning independently, makes decisions and initiates actions with a minimum of supervision.

• Creates solutions for problems and adjusts quickly to change.

Writing (20%)

• Identifies best audio clips and organizes research information to write script outlines which is the backbone of podcast episodes.

• Edits and rewrites subsequent drafts and provides story direction.

• Manages fact checking to ensure accuracy of all information.

Research and Reporting (15%)

• Researches a topic and becomes a subject expert.

• Distills complex information in a clear, understandable way and communicates research to team.

• Digs deep to find and reach out to multiple sources in order to discover diverse voices and perspectives that are not often heard in the media.

Mixing (15%)

• Responsible for the sound design of episodes, including audio mixes, and selection and commissioning of music and other sound elements.

Field Recording (10%)

• Gathers sound, conducts interviews in the field as assigned.

• Strong knowledge of audio equipment including stereo mics and wireless Lavaliers to build compelling sonic scenes.

Pre-Interview and Booking (10%)

• Pre-interviews guests and books guests that demonstrate a range of perspectives and experiences.

• Provides host with background research.

• Independently conducts studio recorded interviews as needed.

Other Duties as Assigned (5%)

• Backups other producers as assigned.

• Attends and participate in department or organization meeting trainings.

• Provides production support for on-air fundraising drives.

• Supports internal station initiatives.

SUPERVISION

• Position reports to the Senior Editor

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS and Ability

RACIAL EQUITY

Actively contribute to a workplace culture of anti-racism, belonging, and inclusion that is supportive and welcoming to all. This includes pitching stories and guests that demonstrate a range of perspectives and experiences, and actively contributing to a workplace culture of anti-racism, belonging, and inclusion that is supportive and welcoming to all.

SUCCESS PROFILE

Knowledge of:

• Producing podcasts while centering anti-racist practices.

• Strong writing, editing, and production for digital.

• Journalism best practices, including journalistic ethics.

• Researching and information gathering.

• Project management and long-term planning.

• Mixing, sound design and audio storytelling.

• The mission of public radio journalism and a deep commitment to it.

Ability to:

• Work independently and as part of a team.

• Communicate proactively and effectively with both in person and remote individuals, engage in courageous conversations, maintain trust and respect in challenging situations.

• Prioritize effectively and adjust quickly when circumstances change.

• Maintain consistent detail-orientation, time management, and a high level of organization.

• Work independently under deadline pressure.

• Innovate, think critically, be creative, earn trust, center racial equity in everyday work.

Requirements include:

• Bachelor’s degree and three years of professional broadcast journalism experience of increasing responsibility or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Requires knowledge of professional broadcast and journalistic standards and practices.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Duties may occasionally require evening and weekend work when necessary to meet critical deadlines.

• Cubicle/Open workspace environment which may result in additional or higher levels of noise and visual distractions.

• Unassigned desks in designated work area

• Position is suitable/eligible for Hybrid/Occasional Telework.