Programming Director

Job Description

SUMMARY

Reporting to the General Manager, the Programming Director is responsible for the strategic programming vision of NJ PBS across all platforms, including broadcast television, streaming, and digital channels. This role curates and schedules content that reflects the full diversity of New Jersey's communities, maintains the station's relationship with PBS and national content partners, and ensures that locally produced, community-driven programming remains central to the station's public service mission.

NOTE: Hiring is contingent upon the execution of the contract between the State of New Jersey and Montclair State University.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversee the development and commissioning of locally produced content, with particular focus on representing underserved New Jersey communities and partnering with the state’s business, art, educational and creator communities.
• Ensure programming reflects New Jersey's geographic, cultural, and linguistic diversity, including content for non-English-speaking audiences.
• Develop and implement a programming strategy balancing national PBS content with locally produced and acquired programming.
• Plan and manage the station's broadcast and streaming schedules, including prime time, daytime, and overnight blocks.
• Serve as the primary station liaison to PBS National for programming acquisitions, underwriting content, and compliance with PBS editorial standards.
• Serve as the primary station liaison to other national programming services, including PBS (Public Broadcasting Service), American Public Television (APT), and the National Education Telecommunications Association (NETA).
• Use ratings data, audience research, and community feedback to evaluate programming performance and guide scheduling decisions.
• Coordinate all programming for multiple platforms, including on-demand libraries, streaming channels, and YouTube presences.
• Manage the programming department budget, including content acquisition, licensing fees, and production underwriting.
• Supervise programming staff.
• Ensure all programming meets FCC content requirements, including E/I mandates and closed-captioning standards.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Management retains the right to add or change job duties at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS

REQUIRED

• A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Minimum five years of professional experience in the communications, media, or related industry.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and creating video-based content.

PREFERRED

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Experience at a PBS affiliate or public television station.
• Knowledge of PBS national programming catalog and clearance processes
• Familiarity with FCC programming requirements.
• Experience with broadcast programming management, scheduling, or traffic operations.
• Experience with Nielsen ratings and broadcast audience data analysis.

PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY

Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions.

Salary Range

$145,000.00-$160,000.00 Annually

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/