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Music Programming Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

iHeartMedia

Manager, Marketing Strategy

Chicago, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Podcasting, the fastest-growing new media, today has more monthly users than streaming music ... of programming that reflects the diversity of the many communities we serve - and our company ...

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Music Programming Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$31.4K

$59.5K

$125.2K

How much do music programming manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for music programming manager in Chicago, IL is $59,472.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,200.00 and $65,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music programming manager do?

A Music Programming Manager is responsible for selecting, scheduling, and curating music content for radio stations, streaming platforms, or other media outlets. They analyze audience preferences, industry trends, and performance data to create playlists and ensure the music aligns with the brand or format. Additionally, they collaborate with artists, record labels, and other stakeholders to acquire new music and promote featured content. Their role is crucial in shaping the listening experience and keeping audiences engaged.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a music programming manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Programming Manager, you need a deep understanding of music trends, audience analysis, and experience in playlist curation, often supported by a degree in music, communications, or a related field. Familiarity with music scheduling software (such as RCS Selector or MusicMaster), data analytics platforms, and music licensing systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, creativity, and the ability to collaborate with artists, labels, and internal teams set top candidates apart. These skills ensure that music programming aligns with audience preferences, drives engagement, and supports organizational goals.

What is the difference between Music Programming Manager vs Music Director?

AspectMusic Programming ManagerMusic Director
Primary RoleOversees music scheduling, content curation, and playlist management for radio, streaming, or venues.Chooses and conducts music for performances, broadcasts, or events, often leading musical ensembles.
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in music, communications, or related field; experience in programming or broadcasting.Often has a music performance background, with formal music education or conducting experience.
Work EnvironmentRadio stations, streaming platforms, or entertainment venues.Concert halls, theaters, or broadcast studios.

While both roles involve music selection, the Music Programming Manager focuses on scheduling and content curation for media platforms, whereas the Music Director is more involved in live or broadcast musical performances and conducting. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How does a music programming manager collaborate with other departments to curate playlists and events?

A Music Programming Manager frequently works closely with marketing, artist relations, and data analytics teams to ensure playlists and events align with audience preferences and brand goals. They gather input from these departments to understand trends, promotional priorities, and user engagement metrics, which helps in selecting and scheduling music content. Effective collaboration ensures that programming decisions are both creative and strategic, resulting in engaging music experiences that support wider business objectives.

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Programming jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Music Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Music Programming Manager jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Music Programming Manager jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Programming Manager jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Programming Manager jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Music Programming Manager jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Music Programming Manager job openings:

Music Programming Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Programming Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,472 per year, or $28.6 per hour.

Manager, Digital Media Strategy & Planning

iHeartMedia, Inc.

Chicago, IL • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

iHeartMedia rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 51 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 76 rated media

Job description

iHeartMedia
Current employees and contingent workers click here to apply and search by the Job Posting Title.
The audio revolution is here - and iHeart is leading it! iHeartMedia, the number one audio company in America, reaches 90% of Americans every month -- a monthly audience that's twice the size of any other audio company - almost three times the size of the largest TV network - and almost 4 times the size of the largest ad-supported music streaming service. And we were just recognized as one of the Top Media Sales Organizations by The Myers Report!
In fact, iHeart has: More #1 rated markets than the next two largest radio companies combined;
  • We're the largest podcast publisher, with more monthly downloads than the second- and third-largest podcast publishers combined. Podcasting, the fastest-growing new media, today has more monthly users than streaming music services or Netflix;
  • iHeart is the home of many of the country's most popular and trusted on-air personalities and podcast influencers, who build important connections with hundreds of communities across America;
  • We create and produce some of the most popular and well-known branded live music events in America, including the iHeartRadio Music Festival, the iHeartRadio Music Awards, the iHeartCountry Festival, iHeartRadio Fiesta Latina and the iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour;
  • iHeartRadio is the #1 streaming radio digital service in America;
  • Our social media footprint is 7 times larger than the next largest audio service; and
  • We have the only complete audio ad technology stack in the industry for all forms of audio, from on demand to broadcast radio, digital streaming radio and podcasting, which bring data, targeting and attribution to all forms of audio at an unparalleled scale. As a result, we're able to combine our strong leadership position in audience reach, usage and ad tech with powerful tools and insights for our sales organizations to help them build success for their clients at a more efficient cost than any other option.

Because we reach almost every community in America, we're committed to providing a range of programming that reflects the diversity of the many communities we serve - and our company reflects that same kind of diversity. Our company values stress collaboration, curiosity, welcoming dissent, accepting mistakes in the pursuit of new ideas, and respect for everyone.
Only one company in America has the #1 position in everything audio: iHeartMedia!
If you're excited about this role but don't feel your experience aligns perfectly with the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. At iHeartMedia we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace and are looking for teammates passionate about what we do!
What We Need:
iHeartMedia is seeking a Manager, Digital Media Strategy & Planning to power our sales organization and reinforce our position as the leader in digital audio.
This role is central to shaping winning RFP responses across streaming, podcasting, display, and social - translating complex opportunities into clear, compelling media strategies. You'll own the development of smart, insight-driven plans, produce best-in-class submission materials, and confidently navigate evolving tools and systems.
The ideal candidate is a strong cross-functional communicator who partners seamlessly with sales, manages workflows with precision, and leverages post-sale performance insights to continuously elevate pre-sale strategy and storytelling.
What You'll Do:
  • Support the development of digital RFP strategies across streaming, podcasting, social, and experiential/event offerings, ensuring plans are thoughtfully constructed, insight-driven, and aligned with advertiser objectives.
  • Create and manage all supporting RFP materials, including detailed Excel-based media plans, presentation decks, and custom documentation that clearly communicates strategy, value, and performance expectations.
  • Leverage internal documentation and workflow systems to accurately assign RFP ownership, track progress, meet deadlines, and maintain visibility across multiple stakeholders.
  • Partner closely with inventory and planning teams, utilizing internal inventory management systems to assess availability, pricing, and feasibility in support of strong, competitive RFP responses.
  • Analyze post-sale performance data and campaign insights to identify learnings, optimize future recommendations, and continuously strengthen pre-sale strategy, planning, and storytelling.

What You'll Need:
  • 2 - 4 years experience
  • Interest in media, technologies, and a desire to keep informed of new trends
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail
  • Professional maturity, integrity, discipline and a positive attitude
  • Excellent written communication and presentation skills
  • Expert at PowerPoint and Excel
  • Self-motivated work ethic with the ability to manage time effectively
  • Creative problem solver that can quickly pinpoint client needs

What You'll Bring:
  • Respect for others and a strong belief that others should do this in return
  • Accountability for own work and desire to provide guidance to new team members
  • Ability to contribute to several projects at the same time under a moderate level of direction
  • Application of objective judgement, technical skills and prior experience to solve business problems
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including a knack for explaining complex information in a straightforward manner
  • Desire for continued knowledge sharing and learning
  • Understanding of impact of own decisions

Compensation:
Salary to be determined by multiple factors including but not limited to relevant experience, knowledge, skills, other job-related qualifications, and alignment with market data.
$61,600 - $77,000
Location:
Chicago, IL: 233 N. Michigan Avenue, 30th Floor, 60601
Position Type:
Regular
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Type:
Salaried
Benefits:
iHeartMedia's benefits offering is flexible and offers a variety of choices to meet the diverse needs of our changing workforce, including the following:
  • Employer sponsored medical, dental and vision with a variety of coverage options
  • Company provided and supplemental life insurance
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Paid company holidays
  • A Spirit day to encourage and allow our employees to more easily volunteer in their community
  • A 401K plan
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at no cost - services include telephonic counseling sessions, consultation on legal and financial matters, emotional well-being, family and caregiving
  • A range of additional voluntary programs, such as spending accounts, student loan refinancing, accident insurance and more!

We are accepting applications for this role on an ongoing basis.
The Company is an equal opportunity employer and will not tolerate discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, disability, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other legally protected classification or status.
Non-Compete will be required for certain positions and as allowed by law.
Our organization participates in E-Verify. Click here to learn about E-Verify.

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