Assistant Program Director / On Air Host

Title :

Assistant Program Director / On-Air Host / WNWC

VP Area : VP - Media

Department : WNWC - Madison

Position Compensation :

$55,100 - $61,200

Location :

Madison, Wisconsin - WNWC

Who We Are

Northwestern is a faith-driven community, unwavering in our Christ-centered principles and identity as those who profess faith in Jesus. Rooted in the unshakable foundation of God’s Word and our calling to impact His world, our mission and vision flow from these core values, expressed through Christ-centered higher education at the University of Northwestern – St. Paul and through gospel outreach and faithfulness with Northwestern Media.

Position Summary

The Assistant Program Director / On-Air Host plays a dual role in supporting the overall programming and content strategy while serving as a key voice on the air. This position assists with music scheduling, production, compliance, and coaching air staff, while also hosting engaging on-air segments that align with the station’s mission. Additionally, this person will serve as a co-host on the morning show, bringing energy and connection to kick off the day with our audience. The role requires strong technical, organizational, and communication skills, with a heart for ministry and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

Assistant Program Director Responsibilities :

Collaborate with the Program Director to schedule music, maintain relationships with record labels, and assist with weekly music selection and music research efforts.

Coordinate and review traffic logs with the Underwriting Director, ensure FCC compliance (including EAS testing and Online Public File maintenance), and assist with the review and approval of underwriting copy.

Help develop and maintain station imaging, promotional content, and production elements; oversee audio production, write and approve liners, and assist in assigning production tasks.

Support air staff development by participating in coaching sessions, leading aircheck meetings, and providing regular feedback and direction in collaboration with the Program Director and Network Coach.

Assist with departmental operations, including voice track scheduling, staff coverage, and completing reporting and submissions required for compliance and performance tracking.

On-Air Host Responsibilities :

Host weekday and weekend air shifts, including full show preparation, live or recorded music segments, interviews, and smooth ad‑lib transitions in alignment with station mission and music policy.

Operate studio equipment, control boards, and transmitters, ensuring proper logging and compliance with FCC regulations.

Engage listeners through social media, live events, community appearances, and fundraising activities; represent the station at concerts, churches, and other outreach opportunities.

Schedule and conduct interviews with artists, authors, and community members; support production of related audio content and participate in podcasts or additional audio projects as assigned.

Perform other duties as requested or assigned.

Because our community is a significant part of our mission and the development of our students and listeners, all employees serve as ministers of the gospel of Jesus Christ by actively partnering with the University to disciple students as they grow intellectually and spiritually, and with Northwestern Media to lead people to Christ and nurture believers to maturity in their faith.

Qualifications

Required :

High School diploma or GED equivalent required

Previous broadcasting, public speaking, or related experience

Maintain a growing, personal relationship with Jesus Christ, reflect His character in all interactions, and faithfully uphold and embrace Northwestern’s mission, Doctrinal Statement and Declaration of Christian Community

Nice To Have : Bachelor’s Degree

On-Air radio experience with demonstrated success in show preparation, delivery and audience engagement.

Prior experience in programming

Key Skills

Independent & Teamwork : Capable of working both independently and collaboratively, with minimal supervision and the ability to coach and support on-air talent

Confidentiality : Detail-oriented and highly organized, with strong time management and problem‑solving abilities; able to prioritize multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain high standards for quality and compliance.

Organizational Skills : Strong time management and problem‑solving abilities; able to prioritize and meet deadlines with attention to detail.

Technical Proficiency : Comprehensive understanding of FCC regulations and compliance requirements, including experience with EAS testing, online public files, and non-commercial underwriting standards, coupled with strong technical proficiency in audio production, studio equipment, automation systems, and intermediate to advanced computer skills, including Microsoft Office.

Written & Verbal Communication : Excellent communication and leadership skills, collaborate effectively with programming and engagement teams, and connect authentically with the target audience across on-air, digital, and in-person platforms. Skilled in writing, editing, proofreading, and delivering compelling verbal communication.

Flexibility : Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed.

Travel : Willingness and ability to travel occasionally for work-related purposes.

Background Check : Must pass initial and ongoing background checks as a condition of employment.

Work Environment

The work environment involves working for a suburban, Christian university or Christian owned and operated radio station alongside those with a demonstrated commitment and personal relationship with Jesus Christ, a commitment to the mission and values of Northwestern, and an agreement to abide by all Northwestern policies.

Media Sample Requirement

Because of the on-air component of this position, a media sample is required. You may include links to your sample in your uploaded resume or send requested media files to jobs@unwsp.edu. Include in Subject line : {Position applying to} and {Last name}. Your application will not be reviewed and considered until all requested files have been submitted.

Northwestern's Benefits Overview

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