Director of Content

Director of Content

Salary

$99,964.80 - $142,355.20 Annually

Location

Johnston - 50131 - Polk County, IA

Job Type

Full-time

Job Number

27-00525

Agency

285 Iowa PBS

Opening Date

08/20/2026

Closing Date

9/10/2026 11:59 PM Central

LinkedIn Tag

#LI-DNP

Point of Contact

humanresources@iowapbs.org

To Apply

Click the Apply button at the top of the page. Please attach your resume and cover letter detailing your qualifications and vision for the role to your application.

• Description
• Benefits

Job Description

This is a non-merit position. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Director of Content

Why Iowa PBS?

Join the driving force behind Iowas statewide public broadcasting network! Iowa PBS is home to a dedicated team of approximately 100 full and part-time employees committed to delivering engaging local programs, comprehensive broadcast services, and impactful educational initiatives. Our mission is powered by our highly-qualified, diverse, and talented staff, who are key to our success. At Iowa PBS, we prioritize career development and foster a community that values each member as our most precious resource.

Position Overview:

Iowa PBS is searching for a visionary and accomplished Director of Content to lead content planning and development for local and statewide programming. This critical leadership role manages all broadcast and streaming content, ensuring our programming educates, informs, enriches, and inspires Iowans. As a member of the leadership team under the direction of the General Manager, the Director of Content will oversee approximately 35 staff members and play a vital role in the organization's strategic planning process.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and execution of local and statewide programming from initial concept through completion.
• Ensure editorial integrity across all Iowa PBS content including broadcast, streaming, and social media. Manage budgets, monitor production processes across the network, and meet project objectives.
• Work closely with the Iowa PBS Foundation and collaborate with internal departments to create cohesive content and distribution plans for new platforms.
• Supervise and evaluate programming, production, master control, and operations staff, fostering a positive and productive work environment.
• Develop and strengthen community partnerships and collaborations to enhance Iowa PBS programming.
• Research and implement best practices in operational processes, audience research, program evaluation, technology, and public broadcasting trends.
• Engage with national network representatives to share insights and learn from colleagues across the country.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong commitment to journalistic standards and editorial integrity.
• Broad experience in managing programming and production for both broadcast and streaming media, including studio-based and remote multi-camera productions, digital shorts, and major documentaries.
• Proven leadership and management skills, particularly in supervising creative staff and managing budgets.
• In-depth knowledge and experience in public media production and programming.
• Ability to understand and consistently leverage local programming that varies from public affairs, culture, sports, music, and history.
• Successful track record of building internal collaborations for effective program production and distribution.
• Ability to drive collaborative efforts between Iowa PBS and content partners.
• Expertise in strategic planning and data-driven decision-making to effectively serve Iowans.
• Innovative mindset to explore and implement new production models that best serve the community.

Benefits:

The State of Iowa is committed to your well-being. As a valued team member, youll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, paid holidays, and unlimited sick leave accrual.
• Health Coverage: Excellent Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance options.
• Retirement Plan: IPERS Retirement package and an option for a deferred compensation plan.
• Flexibility: Flexible Spending Accounts (medical and dependent care).
• Life Insurance: Free Life Insurance coverage.
• Support: Employee Assistance Programs and Employee Discount Programs.

To learn more about the benefits of working with the State of Iowa, visit our benefits webpage.

Join Us!

At Iowa PBS, youll have the chance to shape the future of our programming and production while working with a passionate and talented team. If you are enthusiastic about public broadcasting and have the expertise to lead our programming and production efforts, we invite you to apply. Help us create inspiring content that makes a difference in the lives of Iowans.

Visit our careers page here to learn more about our organization.

E-Verify and Right to Work

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization. For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following minimum requirements to qualify for positions in this job classification:

1) Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and experience equal to six years of full-time management-level work in finance, human resources, engineering, law, social work, regulation, data processing, or program research or evaluation.

2) Ten years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, social work, regulation, data processing, or program research or evaluation.

3) All of the following (a and b):

a. Six years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, social work, regulation, data processing, or program research or evaluation; and

b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

4) All of the following (a, b, and c):

a. Four years of full-time management-level work experience in finance, human resources, engineering, law, social work, regulation, data processing, or program research or evaluation; and

b. A combination of a total of four years of education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where thirty semester hours of accredited college or university course work in any field equals one year of full-time experience; and

c. A combination of a total of two years of graduate-level education and full-time experience (as described in part a), where twenty-four semester hours of accredited graduate college or university course work in a public-service-related area (e.g., public or business administration, social work, law, education, engineering) equals one year of full-time experience. Graduation from the Iowa Certified Public Manager Program is also equivalent to one year of full-time experience or education.

5) Current, continuous experience in the state executive branch that includes eighteen months of full-time work as a Public Service Manager 1 or comparable specific management-level position.

For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.

Why Choose the State of Iowa?

At the heart of our commitment to excellence is a dedication to our most valuable asset - our employees. Discover the outstanding benefits that set us apart as an employer of choice.

Our Robust Benefits Package Includes:

Competitive Compensation:

Enjoy a competitive salary that reflects directly on your skills and expertise.

Keep in mind, your wage is just one part of your total compensation. Unlock the complete value of your employment with the State of Iowa by using our user-friendly Total Compensation Calculator. Gain insights into your comprehensive annual compensation, including salary and State-provided benefits.

Health and Wellness:

Prioritize your well-being with our comprehensive health plans, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing that the State of Iowa covers 90% of the premiums, providing you and your loved ones with excellent coverage at a remarkably low cost.

Retirement Planning:

We are proud to offer the Iowa Public Employees Retirement System (IPERS). A defined benefit plan, IPERS benefits are guaranteed for life, meaning once you retire, you will receive the same monthly benefit for the remainder of your life (once vested). We invest in your long-term financial well-being, so you can retire with peace of mind. Click here to learn more about IPERS.

Paid Time Off:

Life is unpredictable, and at the State of Iowa, we understand the importance of work-life balance. Our leave policies, including paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave with unlimited accrual, ensure you have the flexibility you need for personal and family matters.

Professional Development:

Elevate your career with continuous learning opportunities. We support your growth through training programs, workshops, and tuition reimbursement.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP):

We care about your well-being beyond the workplace. Access confidential counseling, resources, and support through our Employee Assistance Program.

Diversity and Inclusion:

Be part of a diverse and inclusive workplace that embraces all backgrounds and perspectives. We believe diversity is a strength that drives innovation.

Join Us - Elevate Your Career:

Ready to elevate your career with the State of Iowa? Click here to explore more about our unparalleled benefits and discover what makes us unique. Your success is our priority!

Employer State of Iowa

Agency 285 Iowa PBS Address 6450 Corporate Dr

PO Box 6450

Johnston, Iowa, 50131

Website http://www.iowapbs.org/