Production Assistant, Louder Than A Riot

Job Description

NPR Music's Louder Than A Riot is a seasonal hip-hop podcast that prides itself on reframing hot-button issues in completely new ways. Louder Than A Riot is hosted by two dynamic, decisive, Black music journalists who between them have more than 20 years of experience covering the world of hip-hop. In Season 2 of the show, Rodney Carmichael and Sidney Madden will continue to investigate hip-hop and the power of American institutions from all angles - the power the music industry wields over artists, the power of institutional forces that marginalize communities of color, and the power dynamics deep-rooted in the rap game. Now, we are looking for someone to help us grow and think about new directions for the show.

About You: You're a knowledgeable hip-hop head who follows the moves of the industry and the culture. You think about Black music's cultural capital, and are always asking questions about its place in the world and its larger social impact. You are also a creative person with new ideas about audio. You have some experience in audio and are excited to grow your skills. You're excited about making something new.

This is a short-term assignment, with the minimum term running from October 1, 2021 through June 1 2022. This job is remote, but you must be willing to travel 30% for field reporting and interviewing.

This is a fully remote position.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Production Assistant works on all aspects of show production as needed: 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. Producing content for digital media, including social 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 writing skills, and experience working with content management systems such as Seamus, managing a show's social accounts and coordinating efforts across departments.
• Researches and pitches ideas for interviews and segments
• Conducts research, assists in arranging interviews and fact-checking
• Works with hosts, producers and others in arranging for related elements to complete or supplement an episode or guide
• Develops basic technical skills under editorial supervision, such as booking, tape-cutting, recording and, where applicable, field producing
• Conceptualizes program segments, interviews and episodes with regular supervision
• Follows best practices and DEI in story development, sourcing and booking
• Writes digital and social media copy
• Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience.

REQUIRED SKILLS
• At least 1.5 years experience in podcasting
• Demonstrated experience in narrative storytelling
• Demonstrated ability to edit audio (preference for ProTools), ability to learn quickly where needed
• Strong digital media skills, including proficiency in social media as both a newsgathering technique and, especially, as a way to distribute content
• 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

PREFERRED COMPETENCIES & SKILLS
• Critical Thinking
• Building Stakeholder Relationships
• Resilience
• Managing Complexity

Jobcode: Reference SBJ-d87k8q-18-118-9-7-42 in your application.