News Producer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of news media, the role of news producers has become increasingly crucial.

As stories unfold and the demand for accurate, timely information grows, the need for skilled professionals who can craft, organize, and present our news content escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a news producer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes process of news production,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable news producer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

News Producer Duties and Responsibilities

News Producers play a crucial role in the newsroom, managing various aspects of news programming including content generation, reporting, and broadcasting.

They often collaborate with news directors, reporters, and anchors to create compelling and timely news stories.

News Producers have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Researching and developing news stories from various sources
• Coordinating with reporters, anchors, and other newsroom staff to create cohesive news broadcasts
• Writing and editing news scripts for on-air broadcasting
• Ensuring accuracy and fairness in all stories reported
• Planning the layout and content of news broadcasts
• Managing live broadcasts and breaking news reports
• Overseeing the production process, including video editing and graphics creation
• Participating in editorial meetings and pitching story ideas
• Working under tight deadlines to ensure timely broadcast of news
• Ensuring compliance with relevant laws and ethical guidelines

 

News Producer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented News Producer to join our dynamic news team.

The News Producer will be responsible for researching, writing, and editing news stories for broadcast.

This includes coordinating with the news team to develop story ideas, managing the layout and flow of the newscast, and ensuring that all stories meet the company’s quality and ethical standards.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of news production processes, strong writing skills, and a keen eye for detail.

They should be able to thrive under deadline pressure and have excellent communication and organizational skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and organize newscasts or segments for broadcast
• Research, write, and edit news stories for on-air broadcasting
• Work closely with reporters, anchors, news managers, and assignment editors to determine content needs
• Enhance the content with graphics, video, research, and station branding
• Execute strategies that engage and grow audiences across all media devices
• Review and approve scripts
• Make editorial decisions and provide team leadership
• Coordinate the work of the news team on and off-site
• Follow-up on news tips to develop story ideas
• Ensure newscasts are completed within time limits

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a news producer or similar role
• Proficiency in news production software and editing systems
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work well under deadline pressure
• Sound news judgment with a broadcast style writing
• Ability to multitask and manage time efficiently
• BSc degree in journalism or mass communications

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: News Producer
• Work Environment: News station with potential field work. Must be available to work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the News Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $80,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a News Producer Do?

A News Producer is typically an employee at news organizations like newspapers, radio stations, television stations or digital news platforms.

They are responsible for coordinating all aspects of a news broadcast or article, from the conception of story ideas to the final live presentation.

This includes deciding the content of the news program, choosing the stories to be broadcast, and deciding the order in which they will be presented.

They often work with news reporters, anchors, and other production staff to produce, write, and edit news stories.

They also coordinate live broadcasts, ensuring that all elements of the production run smoothly.

Furthermore, News Producers are responsible for checking the accuracy and fairness of the stories they cover.

They also have to keep updated on breaking news and be able to adjust the broadcast accordingly.

A significant part of their job involves managing deadlines and ensuring that all news stories are finished and ready for air in a timely manner.

They might also work on special projects, such as in-depth features or documentaries, where they are involved in research, interviews, and script writing.

 

News Producer Qualifications and Skills

A competent News Producer should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Strong editorial judgment to determine the relevance and newsworthiness of stories
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with reporters, anchors, and the news director
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced news environment
• Technical knowledge to work with production software and equipment
• Research skills to verify the accuracy of news stories and gather background information
• Writing skills to create engaging and accurate news scripts
• Leadership skills to oversee the news team and ensure smooth operations
• Problem-solving skills to address any technical or editorial issues that may arise
• Creativity to present news stories in an interesting and compelling manner

 

News Producer Experience Requirements

News Producers often start their careers with a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field, where they gain theoretical knowledge and practical experience in news production.

Entry-level news producers may have internships or part-time roles at news stations or media companies under their belt.

These roles can provide them with 1 to 2 years of experience in creating and editing news content, coordinating with news teams, and understanding the fast-paced nature of the news industry.

Mid-level candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have been involved in managing the production of news segments or entire broadcasts, planning coverage of major events, or coordinating with reporters and other staff in the field.

They may also have experience in using various broadcasting software and equipment.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have some leadership experience.

They may have held roles as a Senior News Producer or Assistant News Director, handling multiple productions, managing teams, and making critical editorial decisions.

Their experience can make them ideal candidates for roles with greater responsibilities, such as News Director or Executive Producer.

 

News Producer Education and Training Requirements

News Producers generally possess a bachelor’s degree in journalism, mass communications, or a related field.

Their degree program includes courses in journalism ethics, multimedia reporting, news writing and editing, which provide them with the necessary skills to produce news for various media platforms.

Some roles may require a master’s degree in journalism or a related field, particularly for more specialized or senior positions.

In addition to formal education, News Producers often gain experience through internships at news stations or networks during their college years, which provide practical, hands-on training.

Knowledge of editing software, digital cameras, and other multimedia equipment is also essential.

This can be gained through coursework, internships, or on-the-job training.

News Producers should have strong skills in storytelling, decision making, and time management.

Although not a requirement, certifications in specific areas of news production such as video editing, scriptwriting, or multimedia journalism can enhance a News Producer’s skills and employability.

Continued professional development through workshops, conferences, and other training opportunities is also beneficial for keeping up with the rapid changes in media technology and news production techniques.

 

News Producer Salary Expectations

A News Producer earns an average salary of $46,267 (USD) per year.

However, this can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the size and location of the station, and the scale of news production involved.

 

News Producer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a News Producer need?

News Producers should have excellent written and verbal communication skills.

They need a keen eye for detail, the ability to work under pressure, and meet tight deadlines.

They should also have strong editorial judgment, research and interviewing skills, and the ability to manage a team.

Knowledge of the technical aspects of news production, including the operation of audio/video editing software, is also beneficial.

 

Do News Producers need a degree?

Yes, News Producers usually need a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, broadcasting or a related field.

Some roles may require a master’s degree or significant work experience.

Internships at news stations can also provide valuable practical experience.

 

What should you look for in a News Producer resume?

In a News Producer’s resume, look for a degree in a relevant field, previous experience in news production, and evidence of strong writing and editing skills.

Candidates with experience in a newsroom environment, particularly in a leadership role, will be particularly valuable.

Also, look for experience in using relevant technical equipment and software.

 

What qualities make a good News Producer?

A good News Producer is a strong leader with excellent decision-making skills.

They are able to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet tight deadlines.

They have a passion for news and a good understanding of the needs and interests of their audience.

Good News Producers also have strong ethical judgement and uphold high journalistic standards.

 

How competitive is the field for News Producers?

The field for News Producers is quite competitive.

The nature of the job requires a wide range of skills, from editorial judgement to technical proficiency.

The media industry in general is highly competitive, and News Producers are no exception.

To stand out, candidates need to have strong experience, good connections in the industry, and a portfolio of high-quality work.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look into the dynamic world of a news producer.

Surprising, isn’t it?

It’s not merely about putting together news segments.

It’s about curating stories that shape public opinion and impact lives, one headline at a time.

Our comprehensive news producer job description template and real-life examples have geared you up to take the next step.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your invaluable resource for crafting detailed job listings or refining your resume to stand out.

Remember:

Every news story is a piece of the larger narrative.

Let’s shape that narrative. Together.

How to Become a News Producer (Complete Guide)

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