What are the responsibilities and job description for the Music Program Director position at Iowa Public Radio?
As Music Program Director at Iowa Public Radio (IPR), you will inspire, entertain, and strengthen our audience community through unique and diverse music discovery programming, and will assist the Director of Digital and Music Content in implementing Iowa Public Radio’s music strategy, directly supporting us in attaining our music audience growth goals.
The Music Program Director does this by managing and executing the day-to-day operations of IPR’s Studio One - Adult Alternative Audio (AAA or Triple-A) – service. This includes supervising and coaching producers, hosts, and student employees, ensuring consistency and quality in programming and the on-air sound through direct audio production and “Brilliant at the Basics” radio practices, participating in and evaluating the selection and balancing of music for play on air, and serving as liaison with the music community in Iowa, focusing on Des Moines area relationships with organizations, venues and festivals. Responsibilities also include serving as a producer and on-air host.
Additionally, the Music Program Director will manage the execution of the day-to-day operations of IPR’s Classical service, in a similar manner as for the Studio One service.
IPR offers an excellent benefits package, including health benefits, a retirement plan with a 2-to-1 employer match, immediate accrual of vacation (16 hours monthly) and sick (12 hours monthly) time and a flexible work environment.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in music, communication, or related field
- Five years working in a broadcast environment as a music program host or producer.
- 5-7 years supervisory/management experience.
- Knowledge of broadcast, digital recording, and editing equipment.
- Ability to communicate and negotiate successfully with all levels of organization and outside individuals/businesses.
- Experience successfully leading a team and effectively managing staff
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Extensive knowledge of Triple-A music format
- Knowledge of classical music and classical music programming
- Experience programming a public radio service and coaching on-air talent
- Experience with music scheduling software, radio playback and automation systems, audio editing software, and digital audio control boards
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Apply through the position link on the IPR website.
For full consideration, applications must include the following:
- Cover letter or narrative about what makes you a good candidate for this position
- Resume of work history, experience and education
- Demo reel illustrating both voicing and production work in a AAA or other music audio format
Employment at Iowa Public Radio is dependent upon successful completion of a criminal background check including a driving record review.
IPR will accept applications through 5:00 p.m. Monday, March 24, 2025.
OUR VALUES:
- Integrity: We maintain the highest standards of journalism, providing trustworthy and relevant content with meaningful context.
- Curiosity: We serve an inquisitive audience by asking questions, seeking knowledge, and exploring new ideas.
- Belonging: We strive to reflect Iowa’s cultural complexity by offering a supportive, equitable space for individuals and communities to tell the stories unique to their lived experiences.
- Respect: We create a culture of respect for our audience, sources, and staff.
- Innovation: We support creativity and embrace new ways of serving our audience.
OUR COMMITMENT TO EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
Iowa Public Radio is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Discrimination because of race, color, religion, national origin or sex is prohibited. If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination, please notify the appropriate local, state or federal agency.