Morning Edition Host & Producer - Illinois Public Media

Morning Edition Host & Producer

The Morning Edition Host & Producer is responsible for serving as the local on-air voice for Morning Edition, integrating national NPR programming with timely local news, weather, traffic, and station content. This position hosts and operates live morning broadcasts, writes and produces newscasts under deadline pressure, conducts and edits interviews, supports digital content efforts, and engages with communities throughout the region to strengthen local coverage and audience connection.
Duties & Responsibilities

Live Broadcast & Board Operation
Host and anchor the local broadcast of Morning Edition, delivering a confident, conversational, and authentic on-air presence.
Operate the digital audio control board and automation systems under live broadcast conditions.
Seamlessly integrate local newscasts, weather, traffic, and promotional breaks while strictly hitting national network time posts.
Maintain absolute composure and improvisational agility on-air during technical failures or breaking news.
News Production & Editorial Judgment
Monitor overnight developments, wire services, and local beats to stack, write, and edit fresh hourly newscasts.
Rapidly synthesize complex information into clear, accurate, and objective copy during severe weather or public safety events.
Conduct, record, and edit high-quality interviews ("two-ways") with local newsmakers and regional reporters.
Actively participate in daily newsroom editorial meetings, contributing story ideas and ensuring diverse perspectives are reflected in our coverage.
Digital & Station Support
Repurpose morning audio assets, interviews, and features for digital platforms, such as vertical videos, podcasts, and newsletters.
Serve as a primary on-air talent and pitch-producer during station membership and fundraising drives.
Community Engagement
Travel to libraries in our region to connect with the communities they cover with a focus on rural and under covered communities outside of Champaign-Urbana.
Host pop-up displays to talk with community members about ongoing issues, speak with people one-on-one and promote surveys.
Conduct, record, and edit high-quality interviews ("two-ways") with local residents or newsmakers to help build our regional presence.
Minimum Qualifications

Any one or any combination totaling three (3) years (36 months) of the following types of preparation:
Progressively more responsible work experience in the production and presentation of radio or television programs, social media, and/or print or online journalism
Vocational training in radio and/or television production, journalism, social media, news or feature writing and/or announcing or closely related fields
College course work in radio/television, journalism, social media, news or feature writing or closely related fields
Preferred Qualifications

Experience in public radio
2–5 years of demonstrated experience in a live broadcast environment
Demonstrated experience in audio editing, digital board operation, and production software utilization
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Exceptional Journalism: Sound ethical judgment with a fierce commitment to accuracy, fairness, balance, and public media standards.
Broadcast Writing: The ability to write tight, conversational copy under extreme deadline pressure.
Adaptability: A flexible team player who enjoys working across reporting, technical, and digital production roles.
Community Connection: A deep curiosity about regional issues, politics, culture, and geography.
Utility Journalism: The ability to translate complex regional developments into clear, practical, locally grounded journalism that helps listeners understand how the news affects their daily lives.
Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 4521 - Media Writer/Producer/Announcer I position. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close of the search. The budgeted salary range for this position is $50,000 to $55,000 annually. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on July 27, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. For full consideration, application materials should include a cover letter, current resume (including month/ year employment dates), contact information for three professional references, and transcripts or proof of degree(s). Please ensure your resume highlights your qualifications/experience for this position. This may include professional, academic, volunteer, or other applicable experience that aligns with the responsibilities and requirements of this role. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Jennifer Steiling at steiling@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.