Producer II, Special Projects - MPR News - Temp

Position Summary:

As 12-month temporary Producer II for MPR News, you will help set the news agenda across multiple channels and deliver exceptional news content and experiences that inform, include, and inspire Minnesota audiences. You will work closely with hosts, editors, newscasters, producers, reporters, and teams across departments and brands to produce a variety of stories, interviews, live and recorded programs on all MPR News channels.  In this Producer II role, you will be responsible for a wide range of assignments.  Creative and conversational writing is a must, with strong organizational skills.  You will deliver content that helps the audience connect and more deeply understand news and topics in their community and around the world.  Experience with live events and remote broadcasts, as well as video and social engagement will contribute to the success of this position.  The ability to work and thrive in a collaborative journalism environment is a must.  Schedule may include nights and/or weekends as assigned.

*This is a temporary role and will last for twelve months.

Expected Compensation Range: $36.24 - $43.49 per hour. The exact salary rate is determined by experience and education related to the role, organizational compensation structure, and internal equity.

Location: On-Site, St. Paul, MN

Application Process: Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Application Deadline: Open until filled.

Position Responsibilities:

• Direct in-studio and remote shows, manage control room, set rundown timing, and coordinate with crew and guests
• Locate, contact, pre-interview, evaluate guests; book guests and confirm bookings
• Coordinate guest bookings and technical requirements for remote studio connections
• Write promos, scripts and edit and fact-check copy
• Prepare audio for podcast, digital presentation, and re-broadcast
• Research sources/guests for background and context
• Rewrite copy for accuracy and clarity
• Support hosts and prepare research notes for hosts
• Coordinate special projects, including organization and collaboration across departments and brands
• Edit pre-recorded interviews and prepare audio from live shows for podcast
• Contribute to the show’s digital presence and strategy
• May represent MPR in official functions
• Support other MPR News projects and programs across channels as needed
• May coordinate work of interns
• Other duties as assigned

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent work experience
• 5 or more years of producing or related experience.

Required Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Dedicated to trusted, fact-based, unbiased standards of journalism excellence
• Solid news judgment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to generate fresh and strong ideas for programs, events and all MPR News channels
• Ability to work interdependently within a team while maintaining effective communication and accountability with minimal supervision
• Ability to function as a team leader in the newsroom
• Ability to see and develop distinct special programming and projects
• Excellent organizational skills; effective with details and deadlines
• Ability to learn new industry-specific skills as required
• Knowledge of digital analytics and Nielson ratings
• Interest in and general knowledge of news, current events, and public media

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Fluency in Spanish, Somali, Hmong, or other languages commonly used in Minnesota

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

• Schedule may include nights and/or weekends
• Must be able to perform the essential duties of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Ability to manage some work outside of standard office hours as needed.

Physical Demands: 

• Required to move about in an office environment and sit for extended periods
• Required to move about in the community
• Frequent use of hands for data entry/keystrokes and simple grasping

Working Conditions: 

• Moderate noise level
• Occasional exposure to prevalent weather conditions

APMG offers a comprehensive benefits package including Medical plans with HSA and FSA options, Dental, Vision, Life and AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Paid Parental Leave and Paid Caregiver Leave after 1 year, Vacation (3 wks./per year, pro-rated, based on hours worked), Sick time (12 days, pro-rated, based on hours worked), Holiday Pay (10 holidays + 2 floating holidays each year), Volunteer Time (8 hours per year), Long-Term Care and Critical Illness insurance options, Employee Assistance Program, 403(b) Retirement Plan, and more.

Diversity creates a healthier atmosphere: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.We are committed to hiring a breadth of diverse professionals and encourage members of diverse groups to apply.

MPR News and its staff adhere to journalism ethics and integrity as outlined in the MPR News Ethics Guidelines.