TED Conferences, LLC is hiring : Podcast Producer Temporary in Chicago

Job Description

TED is looking for a Podcast Producer to play a key role in creating an innovative new podcast series for the TED Audio Collective. This show explores life's biggest questions through the lens of contemporary digital culture. The Podcast Producer will have an excellent track record in audio storytelling and will be instrumental in developing a unique blend of philosophical inquiry, scientific discovery, and personal narrative.

While broadly known for its global conferences and signature TED Talk videos, TED is one of the top podcast publishers in the world, garnering over 420 million downloads annually. Our programs are listened to in over 190 countries, and our shows have been consistently ranked by Apple Podcasts as "most downloaded" of the year. TED's award-winning portfolio of leading audio series includes the TED Radio Hour (with NPR), TED Talks Daily, The TED Interview, WorkLife with Adam Grant, and many more.

The Podcast Producer's primary responsibility will be executing the creative vision and production of a new show that tackles existential questions through personal storytelling, expert interviews, and multidisciplinary exploration. This role involves collaborating closely with the podcast hosts and TED team to develop episodes and seasons, create compelling audio content that transforms complex philosophical and scientific concepts into accessible, engaging episodes for young adult audiences navigating life's big questions.

This assignment has an end date of May 31, 2028, and will be primarily focused on the production of this new show, with very limited engagement with TED’s other podcast projects. This is the perfect fit for a producer who is looking for flexibility as a temporary worker and can dedicate the bulk of their time to making this show year-round from December 2025 to May 2028.

Produce podcast episodes, which includes :

Collaborate with hosts to develop episode concepts that explore philosophical questions through contemporary life

Research and book diverse expert guests ranging from philosophers to scientists, spiritual leaders cultural commentators and other great thinkers

Conduct pre-interviews and write comprehensive interview prep that helps hosts connect complex ideas to relatable experiences

Lead or support interview sessions, ensuring high-quality audio capture for both hosts and remote guests

Coordinate technical setup for guests, including sending professional microphones and lighting equipment

Write and edit scripts that seamlessly blend host narratives, expert interviews, and audience voice notes

Cut tape and assemble episodes to support creative scoring and sound design that enhances a contemplative, wonder-filled tone through collaboration with sound designer and mixer

Work closely with story editors and advisors to ensure episodes center align with project objectives

Manage fact-checking process to verify guest sources and maintain TED's editorial standards

Support development of companion video podcast adaptations

Collaborate on integration of audience voice notes and community engagement elements

Participate in marketing and promotional activities, including creating episode descriptions and social media content

Assist with production logistics for annual TED conference recording, as needed

Maintain and manage detailed production calendars and coordinate with multiple stakeholders across all teams, ensuring deadlines are met

Other responsibilities and projects assigned as needed

Qualifications : Qualifications

At least three to five years of experience in producing audio for radio or podcasts, with a preference for educational or long-form narrative content

A background in journalism, audio storytelling, and / or educational media production

Experience working with young adult content creators and understanding of digital native culture

Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to work with philosophical and scientific subject matter

Strong ability to craft compelling narratives that weave together storytelling, interview, reporting and other kinds of experimental and genre-bending tape

Experience in gathering tape, conducting in-depth interviews, and assembling multi-layered stories with editing software (ProTools, Adobe Audition, or similar DAWs)

Deep knowledge and interest in philosophy, science, technology, and culture, with an eye for what makes for a captivating piece of audio

Experience with remote recording setups and coordinating technical equipment for guests

An eye for detail, self-direction, and proven track record as a collaborative team player

Strong organizational and project management skills, particularly for serialized content

Interest in or familiarity with podcast video creation, YouTube and educational content creation

Additional Information

Hourly Rate : $30-$50

TED Conferences LLC is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We invite all qualified candidates to apply online with their resume and cover letter.

Compensation : $35-$35

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