Description
WAMU 88.5 is a public media station owned and operated by American University. WAMU is the source for local, regional and NPR news and original programs in Washington DC. Since 1961, WAMU has been amplifying voices and sharing stories from the many neighborhoods and communities in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia.
The Writer/Producer/Booker is a core member of the WAMU Mornings team and a key contributor to the most essential broadcast hours of the day. Reporting to the Supervising Producer — WAMU Mornings, this role ensures the morning show delivers fast, accurate, and compelling news content that reflects the Washington region, its people, and its stories.
This is a multi-platform, multi-tool newsroom role: the Writer/Producer/Booker writes newscast scripts, produces daily segments, finds and books guests, drafts digital updates, and assists with audio and script editing. On a given morning, the person in this position may write a 6 a.m. newscast, cut a two-way for 7:45, pre-interview a guest for 8:30, draft a web headline, and update scripts as stories break.
Essential Functions:
1.) Write and Produce Morning Newscast Content
Quickly create accurate, concise, and compelling newscast scripts for the Morning Host across the 5–10 a.m. broadcast window.
Translate complex stories into clear, audience-focused scripts anchored in WAMU’s local voice.
Monitor breaking developments and update scripts frequently as news evolves.
Shape notes from reporters for on-air use, ensuring clarity, polish, and editorial consistency.
Draft two-way intros, host leads, and segment tee-ups as needed.
2.) Produce Segments and Book Guests
Pitch, research, and produce daily interview segments with strong angles and clear audience value.
Identify, research, and book diverse guests quickly — sometimes at the last minute.
Conduct pre-interviews and prepare background materials, suggested questions, and segment briefs.
Work closely with the Supervising Producer and the Morning Producer to shape narrative flow and build a balanced show.
Coordinate logistics to ensure guests are prepared, available, and supported.
3.) Provide Digital, Social and Cross-Platform Updates
Draft and publish timely digital updates, headlines, and social copy that extend the morning show’s reach.
Coordinate with WAMU’s digital and engagement teams to ensure consistency of framing and tone.
Monitor social, digital platforms, and real-time feedback to surface updates for use on air and online.
Adapt on-air scripts for web and digital use when needed.
4.) Edit Audio and Scripts
Edit short interviews, news spots, and segments for clarity, pacing, tone, and technical quality.
Conduct initial script edits and provide first-round feedback for reporters or producers.
Pull tape, assemble rough cuts, and support basic mix prep.
Ensure all audio meets WAMU’s editorial and technical standards.
5.) Serve as On-Air Backup
Serve as occasional on-air backup for newscasts or two-ways when needed.
Deliver news clearly, confidently, and in alignment with WAMU’s editorial and tonal standards.
Requirements
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:
Full-time.
35 hours per week.
Shift begins early morning (approx. 4:00 a.m. - 5:00 a.m.) on weekdays.
Some holiday or breaking-news coverage may be required.
Hybrid work modality (3 - 4 days onsite).
Salary Range:$67,321.00 annually.
Required Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
1 - 3 years of relevant experience.
1 - 3 years experience in journalism, news writing, producing, or digital reporting (internships, campus media, or freelance work accepted).
Demonstrated ability to write fast, clean, accurate news copy.
Familiarity with audio production, interviewing, or guest booking.
Ability to work under deadline pressure, especially in morning news environments.
Benefits
AU offers a competitive benefits package. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.
Other Details
Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
American University is an E-Verify employer.
