News Producer

Position Overview

Are you a senior reporter who’s looking to shift to a producing role and mentor the next generation of journalists?

Naperville Community Television (NCTV17) is seeking an experienced and mission-driven leader handling news that matters in the third-largest city in the state.

This role is central to our mission to be the trusted source of local information that empowers and connects our community.

From local government and education to cultural events and community milestones, the News Producer helps shape the coverage that reflects the heart of our city. The ideal candidate will bring editorial judgment, strong leadership, and a passion for local journalism to guide a small but mighty news team.

Key Responsibilities

• Story Planning & Assignment: Lead daily and long-term planning of news coverage, identifying stories that inform, connect, and reflect the Naperville community.
• Newsroom Leadership: Manage and support the news team, ensuring clear priorities, efficient scheduling, and timely delivery of stories.
• Breaking news – be able to guide the team in a breaking news situation from live reporting to webpost updates.
• Reporting & Storytelling: Contribute original reporting, including writing and producing news stories, daily email blasts, press releases, and occasionally appearing on camera as needed.
• Editorial Oversight: Review and refine scripts and story structure to ensure accuracy, fairness, clarity, and adherence to journalistic standards.
• Digital Publishing: Prepare and publish content for NCTV17.org, ensuring timeliness, clarity, and accuracy under daily deadlines.
• Production Quality: Oversee the quality of visual and audio content, providing guidance on editing and production best practices.
• Deadline & Performance Management: Ensure content meets tight publishing deadlines while using analytics to track story performance, evaluate reach, and support monthly engagement goals.
• Community Engagement: Foster strong connections with local schools, cultural organizations, nonprofits, and government partners to inform coverage and build trust.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Communications, or Broadcast Media
• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in news as either a reporter or producer for a network affiliate
• Proficient in writing and storytelling
• Proficient in video editing, camera operation, and live reporting
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Demonstrated leadership in a newsroom setting
• Valid Illinois Class D driver’s license

Compensation

• Salary ($60,000 – $70,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience)
• Health insurance
• PTO
• Simple IRA

NCTV17 is committed to equal employment opportunities and a harassment-free workplace.

If you are a senior reporter who’s looking to shift to a producing role and mentor the next generation of journalists, send your resume, link to a demo reel, and cover letter to work@nctv17.org. No phone calls.