Co-Host, Short Wave

Job Description

OVERVIEW

Short Wave, the daily science podcast from NPR, is looking for a new co-cost. The ideal candidate will be a strong journalist and writer, as well as engaging, science-curious and committed to scientific integrity. This host should have a proven ability to lead a range of conversations about science, health, climate and technology. The host must be unflappable under pressure and adept at juggling several guests and topics in a day, and work with editors and producers in a collegial and collaborative nature.

Short Wave explains the complex science behind everyday news through story-telling, journalistic rigor and in-depth reporting. It combines this mission with a steadfast commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion from story inception to final edit. The episodes may be funny or thought provoking but are always smart, original and engaging. Our team is highly collaborative, curious, nimble, and hardworking.

Across our organization, we're building a workplace where collaboration is essential, diverse voices are heard, and inclusion is the key to our success.

RESPONSIBILITIES
• Host an average of 2-3 episodes each week, with reporters from the NPR Science Desk, other units within NPR and outside guests.
• Combine storytelling, clear writing and voicing to communicate in a compelling way
• Connect with and hold the attention of listeners, enhancing the engagement and loyalty of the program's audience
• Pitch, write, edit, revise and deliver scripts that weave together complex topics.
• Ensure audio and stories are accurate. Edit and fact-check as needed.
• Maintain high quality audio standards.
• Works effectively with a minimum of supervision, even in complicated situations.
• Help Short Wave maintain its position as a top science news podcast with a reputation for creativity, accessibility and diversity.
• Fulfill marketing, promotion and administrative obligations arising from position and assignments, including making occasional personal appearances on behalf of NPR and Short Wave to further the program's reach and impact.
• Maintains standards of professional performance and journalistic ethical standards.
• Carries out other assignments as designated.

QUALIFICATIONS
• Proven ability to write for a broadcast and/or podcast audience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and well developed curiosity about science news.
• Ability to talk about science in a clear, balanced and intelligent manner.
• Experience maintaining high journalistic standards under deadline pressure, including standards of accuracy and objectivity;
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes, with changing priorities and 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;
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule.
• 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.

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-rekx92-18-116-51-117-42 in your application.