Producer, History show
A project or contract position at Ark Media, New York or Remote NY, USA
Salary range: $5,600 to $7,800 (monthly rate) - subject to experience
About Ark Media Ark Media is a mission-driven podcast network exploring the big questions shaping Jewish life, Israel's future, and our rapidly changing world. Through high-impact original programming and conversations with thought leaders and decision-makers, Ark Media aims to build a global community driven by curiosity and meaningful dialogue.
Home to the Call Me Back podcast and a growing slate of original shows and editorial initiatives, Ark Media moves fast, sweats the details, and cares deeply about the audience experience.
About the Role We're seeking an experienced Producer (3-5 years' experience) to lead the creative and editorial direction of our Jewish history podcast. This weekly show features a two-host format—an expert historian and a curious co-host who serves as a proxy for the audience—exploring compelling stories from Jewish history in an engaging, accessible, and narrative-driven format.
As the sole producer on this show, you'll work closely with the hosts—particularly the subject matter expert—to shepherd each 35-50 minute episode from concept through final mix. You'll be responsible for identifying stories, shaping narrative structure, story editing scripts, directing recording sessions, crafting visual storytelling elements (b-roll, graphics, archival footage), and collaborating with our sound designer and video editor to create polished, emotionally resonant episodes for both audio and YouTube distribution. This role requires strong editorial judgment, exceptional storytelling skills, and a deep understanding of three-act structure for audio-visual content.
Reports to: Executive Producer
Works with: Hosts, Sound Designer, Video Editor, Social/Marketing Team Schedule: Remote; flexibility to work in Israel/Europe time zones when needed for host coordination and recording sessions
What You'll Do Editorial & Story Development
- Collaborate closely with the expert host to identify, research, and develop compelling stories from Jewish history
- Participate in weekly pitch meetings and assess potential episodes for narrative strength and cultural relevance
- Establish framing, structure, and tone for weekly episodes in collaboration with the Executive Producer and hosts
- Story edit scripts for a clear three-act structure and a compelling thematic arc
- Provide both top-line notes and specific line edits/revisions to strengthen narrative clarity and emotional impact
- Insist on the highest standards for scripts, storytelling, and historical accuracy
Visual Storytelling & Content Development
- Identify and source b-roll, archival footage, photographs, maps, and other visual elements that enhance storytelling
- Craft visual narrative strategies and create detailed visual briefs and shot lists for the video editor, conceptualizing graphics, animations, and on-screen text while specifying timing, tone, and purpose of visual elements
- Collaborate with the video editor to ensure visual elements enhance rather than distract from the narrative
- Ensure visual content is historically accurate, appropriately sourced, and properly licensed
Production & Recording
- Oversee day-to-day operations of the show, shepherding episodes from inception through final mix
- Run production meetings, communicate deadlines, track assets, and maintain the production schedule
- Oversee recording sessions with talent and direct hosts to capture authentic, engaging performances
- Prepare and approve final edits and create documentation for pickup sessions
- Give specific and constructive feedback and guidance throughout the production process
Post-Production & Quality Control
- Work with the sound designer and video editor to give detailed mix, sound design, and visual editing notes
- Ensure all episodes meet the highest standards for audio and visual quality, pacing, and emotional resonance
- Conduct final quality control on audio mixes, video edits, and metadata before release
- Flag and prepare potential marketing and social media assets for promotion across platforms
Must-Have Skills & Experience
- 3-5 years of experience producing narrative podcasts, audio documentaries, radio features, or audio-visual content
- Deep understanding of three-act structure and narrative storytelling for audio and visual media
- Proven track record of story editing scripts and providing constructive, actionable editorial feedback
- Strong editorial judgment with the ability to identify compelling stories and shape them for maximum impact
- Experience conceptualizing and directing visual storytelling elements (b-roll, graphics, archival footage)
- Ability to create clear visual briefs and communicate effectively with video editors and designers
- Experience directing hosts and talent in recording sessions
- Exceptional organizational and project management skills; ability to manage multiple deadlines and workflows
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Proficiency in Descript (or equivalent audio editing software)
- Comfortable working remotely with flexibility to accommodate Israel/Europe time zones when needed
- Self-motivated and able to work independently while collaborating effectively with a remote team
Nice to Have
- Audio and video editing skills
- Knowledge of or deep interest in Jewish history and culture
- Background in history, journalism, documentary filmmaking, or audio-visual storytelling
- Experience producing for YouTube or other video platforms
- Familiarity with archival research and sourcing historical imagery/footage
- Experience with Google Drive and Airtable for project management
- Understanding of visual pacing and how graphics/b-roll enhance narrative storytelling
- Experience producing two-host or conversational podcast formats
- Understanding of social media best practices and multi-platform content optimization
Working Conditions
- Remote position
- Weekly production schedule for ongoing podcast series
- Flexibility required to work across time zones (Israel/Europe) for host coordination and recording sessions
- Collaborative, creative environment with a focus on high-quality storytelling across audio and video platforms
Compensation & Benefits This is a contractor role. Compensation will be based on location and experience and is expected to range from $1,300 to $1,800 per week, paid per week of service. As a contractor position, this role is not eligible for employee benefits. Contractors are responsible for their own taxes, insurance, and benefits. Interested candidates can apply here.
Please mention podnews.net in your application.
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