Full job description
The Production Assistant operates autocue and supports control room workflows on live and pre‑recorded programs. This role is responsible for loading and following rundowns and scripts, cueing presenters accurately, maintaining clear talkback communication, and responding quickly to changes during transmission. The Production Assistant works calmly and precisely in live broadcast environments. This role requires a thorough knowledge of the Farsi/Dari language (to native standard) and excellent timekeeping and organizational skills.
Job Responsibilities:
- Operate autocue/prompt equipment during all live and recorded programs, following established control room procedures and directions from the Director and Program Editor.
- Ensure rundowns and scripts are correctly loaded, updated, and followed as required
- Adjust autocue settings accurately to meet program and presenter requirements.
- Maintain high standards of control room etiquette and communication at all times.
- Liaise with presenters over talkback as required to support smooth delivery.
- Escalate technical issues to relevant technical support teams in a timely manner.
- Demonstrate the ability to work confidently during high pressure, live on air situations.
- Respond effectively to changes in running orders, scripts, or news agendas, including ad-libbing and late amendments.
- Check emails, bookings, and daily communications to remain informed of program updates and requirements.
- Proactively read and follow show documentation, briefs, and updates issued by team leads.
- Support consistent working practices and contribute positively to team culture and output quality.
- Undertake all other reasonable duties as required to support broadcast operations.
Minimum Requirements:
- Fluent in Farsi, excellent spelling and grammatical skills in Farsi.
- Good English language skills.
- Capable of learning to use autocue/prompter and related production technology.
- Good IT literacy and ability to work confidently with Windows, exposure to newsroom and broadcast systems is advantageous.
- Strong verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with journalists, presenters, and technicians.
- Calm, assured, and focused under pressure, particularly in live broadcast environments.
- Excellent time management skills with the ability to concentrate for extended periods.
- Flexible approach to shift work across a 24-hour operation, including overnights, weekends, and public holidays.
- Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive approach to learning.
- An interest in News and Current Affairs.
Pay: $50,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Flexible spending account
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- Newsroom: 2 years (Preferred)
- working with automated broadcast systems: 2 years (Preferred)
Language:
- English (Required)
- Farsi (Required)
Shift availability:
- Day Shift (Required)
- Night Shift (Required)
- Overnight Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- Washington, DC 20005 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Washington, DC 20005: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
