AAA Radio Broadcast Intern
POSITION: AAA Radio Broadcast Intern
DIVISION: Radio
REPORTS TO: AAA Music Director & On-Air Host
CLASSIFICATION: Non-exempt
PAY: $16.00 per hour
Position Overview
This internship offers a hands-on opportunity to shadow the AAA Music Director at WXXI and gain behind-the-scenes experience in music programming, on-air preparation, and broadcast operations at a public radio station. The intern will work closely with Music Director and on-air host Hannah Maier to learn how a four-hour weekday AAA radio program is planned, produced, and executed.
Interns will observe and assist with music selection, show preparation, music scheduling, and studio operations, while gaining exposure to the technical systems and workflows that support daily broadcasts. Interns will also participate in each department that WXXI has to offer including Programming/Music, News, Production/Continuity, Sales, Traffic/Bookkeeping, Technical/Engineering, and Digital.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with day-to-day tasks associated with AAA music direction and radio show preparation
- Observe and support the planning and execution of a live four-hour weekday radio show
- Help import, organize, and catalog new music in the WXXI music library and station systems
- Assist in planning themed or specialty radio shows and programming segments
- Support the recording of pre-tracked radio shows and on-air content
- Learn and assist with broadcast technology, automation systems, and digital tools used to schedule and play music
- Gain introductory experience in audio production and sound engineering tasks
- Help organize and maintain the station’s music library and related metadata
- Participate in music discovery processes, including reviewing new releases and adhering to AAA format guidelines
Learning Outcomes
At the end of the internship, participants will have:
- A working understanding of AAA radio programming and music direction
- Insight into how music is selected and scheduled within a public radio format
- Hands-on experience with radio automation systems and broadcast technology
- Exposure to audio production and studio workflow
- An understanding of how each department in Public Media contributes to success of the company as a whole
Qualifications
- Interest in a career in the music industry
- Interest in radio broadcasting, music programming, audio production, or media
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Comfort working with computers and willingness to learn new technical systems
- Passion for music discovery, especially within the AAA format
- Ability to maintain professionalism in a live broadcast environment
- Prior audio or radio experience is helpful but not required
Work Environment
This internship takes place in a professional public media setting that includes both an office environment and active radio studios. Interns will spend time working at a computer-based workstation as well as in live and recorded studio settings during broadcast hours. The role involves collaboration with on-air staff, production personnel, and occasional interaction with musicians, artists, and guests.
The studio environment is fast paced during live broadcasts and requires attention to detail, adaptability, and the ability to remain professional while working with audio equipment and broadcast technology. Interns should be comfortable in creative, collaborative spaces and willing to engage in both independent and team-based work.
Please apply at www.wxxi.org