KCRW Inc is hiring: Producer IV, Press Play in Santa Monica

Who Are We

We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and connection – online, in-person and on the radio. Always excellent, accessible, and often unexpected, we are a constant source of fuel for the imagination, education and good vibes. At least, that is what our members tell us.

As NPR’s flagship member station in Southern California for more than 30 years and a community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW is the next generation of public media.

How You’ll Make An Impact:

KCRW is looking for a Producer IV for Press Play, our flagship news and culture show and podcast. We produce a one-hour show Monday through Thursday and it’s a fast-paced, exciting and demanding environment. This position will be responsible for generating interview segments on a range of topics. From international, national, and local news to arts, music, sports, and lifestyle stories, our coverage delivers compelling conversation with the signature depth and context listeners rely on public radio for. We’re looking for candidates who are:

• Smart audio journalists. You are passionate about public radio and creative with engaging the audience through our intimate medium.
• Keen observers of politics. You’ll be engaging with leading writers, policy analysts and newsmakers with diverse opinions.
• Culture Curious. You are avid about culture and entertainment coverage.
• Mindful collaborators. You’ll support a talented host and collaborate with a close team of experienced producers and engineers, and work with colleagues across KCRW to maximize audience engagement and loyalty to KCRW.

Here’s What You’ll Do:

• Advanced research and analysis

• Booking guests

• Interview preparation

• Writing and editing scripts and web copy

• Editing audio

• Pitching stories

• Listening to taped interviews before broadcast

• Coordinating studio interviews, managing connections and quality control

• Collaborating with host on editorial decisions before, during and after interviews

• Directing live show broadcast

• Contributing to future planning, including overseeing regular segments and series

• Working on advanced tasks proficiently and with minimal supervision. May occasionally engage in supervisory tasks.

• Ability to run editorial meetings when required

Here’s What You’ll Bring:

• Strong broadcast writing and editing skills

• Knowledgeable about national and international news and Southern California

• Highly proficient in audio editing

• Minimum 7 years producing or reporting broadcast news

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Preferred Skill:

• Knowledge of ProTools

• Experience in public media

• Experience covering national politics and elections

• Experience in daily live broadcast production

• Degree in journalism or related field

This job is represented by SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, which ensures that performers receive fair wages, working conditions, and benefits. Membership provides valuable support and resources for those in the industry.

• KCRW employees covered by the 2022-2026 SAG-AFTRA/KCRW contract need to follow the union security article of the contract, become a full voting member or fee-paying non-member

• There are annual base dues plus working dues of 1.575% of the previous calendar year's earnings

• The broadcast initiation fee specific to KCRW is $720 for full time and $360 for part time and there are payment plans

• Upon hire, SAG-AFTRA will be in contact with all necessary information

• Candidates can discuss any union specific questions with a shop steward upon hire

KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.