Short Wave is NPR’s science podcast. Three times a week, we give listeners a better understanding of the science around them in around 10 minutes. We might do it through an engaging conversation, a sound-rich story, or maybe a fun explainer off the news. We also aspire to reach new and underrepresented groups, by making science accessible and relevant.

We’re looking for a production assistant to join the Short Wave team. An ideal candidate would be someone detail-oriented, creative, curious, open to learning, and ready to jump right in. The work includes fact-checking as well as research, booking and basic production. A science background (and a sense of humor) a plus. 

This is a union represented role covered under the terms of a collective bargaining agreement with SAG-AFTRA.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist showrunner and hosts as needed in preparation for the podcast.
• Research and book guests as well as suggest interview questions
• Fact-check the podcast and other associated content
• Assist with booking logistics, including technical support before and during the interview.
• Gather tape, assist with production and mixing
• Generate and pitch ideas for the show
• Be an active participant in team meetings 
• Assist with web production of stories as necessary
• Assist with podcast promotion, including social 
• Collaborate with NPR Science Desk reporters
• Actively participate in ensuring that all materials aired meet NPR program standards and practices, including standards of fairness, objectivity, and balance
• Perform other duties as assigned

The above duties and responsibilities are not an exhaustive list of required responsibilities, duties and skills. Other duties may be assigned, and this job description can be modified at any time.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• At least 1 year audio editing and production experience. 
• At least 1 year experience researching and writing for audio: broadcast and/or podcast.
• Excellent research and written/verbal communication skills 
• Experience with and demonstrated commitment to fact checking.
• A passion for science. 
• Ability to effectively collaborate with others, demonstrating, at all times, respect for the diverse constituencies at NPR and beyond.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, under stringent deadlines and changing conditions; ability to prioritize, anticipate and communicate effectively.
• Ability to work independently but also work well as part of a team
• Ability to work a flexible schedule
• Highly supportive of cultivating and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

PREFERRED SKILLS

• Experience in audio production 
• Knowledge or background in science 

WORK LOCATION

• Hybrid Permitted: This is a hybrid permitted role. Some aspects of this role include duties that are better performed at an NPR facility. The employee will be required to be onsite at the Washington, DC office at least 10 days a year. The employee must also reside in an NPR supported location based on the number of onsite days they choose.

JOB TYPE

This is a full time, non exempt position.

COMPENSATION

Hourly Rate: The U.S. based anticipated hourly rate for this opportunity is $32.45 per hour. The range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum hourly rate NPR expects to provide for new hires for the position across all US locations.

Benefits: NPR offers access to comprehensive benefits for employees and dependents. Regular, full-time employees scheduled to work 30 hours or more per week are eligible to enroll in NPR’s benefits options. Benefits include access to health and wellness, paid time off, and financial well-being. Plan options include medical, dental, vision, life/ accidental death and dismemberment, long-term disability, short-term disability, and voluntary retirement savings to all eligible NPR employees. 

Does this sound like you? If so, we want to hear from you.