Narrative Audio Producer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

External Applicants:Please ensure all required documents are ready to upload before beginning your application, including your resume, cover letter, and any additional materials specified in the job description.Cover Letter and Supporting Documents:Navigate to the "My Experience" application page.Locate the "Resume/CV" document upload section at the bottom of the page.Use the "Select Files" button to upload your cover letter, resume, and any other required supporting documents. You can select multiple files.Important Note: The "My Experience" page is the only opportunity to attach your cover letter, resume, and supporting documents. You will not be able to modify your application or add attachments after submission.Current Employees:Apply from your existing Workday account in the Jobs Hub. Do not apply from this website.A cover letter is required for all positions; optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality roles unless otherwise specified.Job Description SummaryThis role coordinates WFDD's new podcast incubator initiative. The Podcast Producer assists in developing, piloting, and launching three distinct podcast products that serve community needs, advance WFDD's mission, and expand audience reach across platforms. This position requires strong organizational skills, sound editorial judgment, and the ability to manage day-to-day tasks under the general direction of the Content Director.They will coordinate the production pipeline: from concept development and talent engagement to recording, editing, publishing, and audience engagement. The ideal candidate balances editorial judgment, storytelling craft, collaboration, and entrepreneurial thinking.Job DescriptionPrimary Deliverables (Year One)The Podcast Producer will support the development and launch:One Community-Based PodcastsCould be place-based, identity-based, or issue-drivenShould reflect voices and stories from WFDD’s 32-county listening areaFlexible in format: narrative, talk, roundtable, co-produced, etc.One WFDD News-Focused Audio ProductCould be a daily, weekly, or series-based approachMust align with newsroom standards for accuracy, ethics, and editorial qualityShould complement existing broadcast contentOne Youth-oriented productCould be youth-driven or aimed at younger audiencesFlexible in format: narrative, talk, roundtable, shorts, etc.Essential Functions:1. Coordinate the WFDD Podcast IncubatorAssist with/administer the application and selection processCreate and apply an evaluation rubric for submissions at different stages of developmentRecommend projects for selection and support their developmentCoordinate logistics: studio access, training sessions, equipment use, and schedulingDraft participation agreements and guidelines for Content Director approvalProvide hands-on editorial and production support to help creators reach launch or next-stage readinessEnsure all incubated projects reflect WFDD’s mission, ethics, and brand integrity2. Develop One WFDD-Branded News or Public Affairs PodcastIdentify opportunities based on audience needs, newsroom gaps, or existing contentPropose a show concept and format for approvalCoordinate development from pitch through production and rolloutManage the execution without placing additional workload on newsroom staff unless collaboration is pre-approved3. Create a Youth-Oriented Audio ProductResearch how youth audiences are engaging with on-demand audio or adjacent formatsPropose a concept and format (youth-produced, youth-focused, or hybrid)Support production of the series from planning to launchAssist in building partnerships or participation models with minimal disruption to existing staff capacity4. Manage Day-to-Day Production TasksMaintain production schedules, workflows, and project documentation as assignedCommunicate progress, needs, and timelines clearly to the Content DirectorCollaborate across departments only when necessary and with clear planning5. Maintain Editorial, Brand, and Ethical StandardsApply established guidelinesUphold WFDD’s standards around representation, ethics, tone, and accuracyFlag quality or compliance issues to the Content Director promptlyEscalate potential reputational or editorial risks to the Content Director6. Audience Growth, Engagement, and Distribution StrategyTrack performance metrics (downloads, reach, engagement, listener behavior) for all podcast productsCoordinate with Marketing, News, and Membership teams to promote shows, grow audiences, and build visibilitySupport implementation of platform-specific strategies (podcast apps, YouTube, social, streaming, newsletters, partnerships)Adjust production, promotion, or format approaches based on data, trends, and audience needsStay current on emerging platforms, formats, and audience habits—especially youth and on-demand listenershipProvide input when a product isn't reaching its audience goalsDevelop and document outreach, launch, and promotional plans for every new productOther Functions:Participates in on-air fundraisers as needed.Maintains organized project documentation, production calendars, and agreements with participants.Represents WFDD professionally in community, youth, and partner-facing settings.Participates in staff meetings and strategic planning conversations as assigned.Performs other duties as assigned by the Content Director.Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience in journalism, media production, communications, or a related field.Demonstrated two-year experience producing podcasts or narrative audio content from concept through publication.Proficiency with audio recording and editing software (e.g., Adobe Audition).Strong writing, story development, and editorial judgment.Superior organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple high-stakes projects simultaneously.Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work with community partners, youth, and non-professional storytellers.Ability to develop and enforce guidelines, standards, and expectations professionally.Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:Experience in public media, newsroom environments, or nonprofit journalism.Familiarity with podcast distribution platforms and audience engagement strategies.Experience working with youth, educators, or community-based organizations.Knowledge of ethics and best practices in journalism and storytelling.Understanding of branding, voice, and representation standards.Bilingual or multilingual ability (Spanish preferred)Experience developing new products, pilots, or editorial initiatives.Accountabilities:Meets production deadlines and deliverables for the three core incubator projects.Protects WFDD’s editorial standards, mission, and brand in all podcast products.Adheres to approved budgets, schedules, and resource limits.Maintains clear communication and reporting to the Content Director.Ensures project documentation, agreements, and guidelines are followed.Physical Requirements:Ability to work at a computer or audio workstation for extended periods.Ability to operate recording equipment, including microphones, headphones, and mixers.Occasional lifting or transport of audio equipment (up to 25 lbs).Ability to travel locally for recording sessions, trainings, or meetings as needed.Environmental Conditions:Occasional off-site work in community spaces, schools, or partner locations.Work may include evening or weekend hours depending on production needs or recording schedules.This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.Additional Job DescriptionTime Type RequirementFull timeNote to Applicant:This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.Equal Opportunity StatementThe University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.Accommodations for ApplicantsIf you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR@wfu.edu or (336) 758-4700. #J-18808-Ljbffr