Fill-In Host, Classical Radio

The Role

WQED Multimedia is recruiting a knowledgeable and engaging Fill-In Host Classical Radio to support weekday evening and weekend air shifts as needed for WQED-FM. This role is intended to help strengthen the bench of WQEDs classical music service provide flexible support for scheduled absences and special coverage and contribute to WQEDs broader investment in Voice of the Arts its signature franchise for arts and culture in western Pennsylvania.

For decades Classical WQED 89.3 FM has been shaped by the experience artistry and deep knowledge of hosts including Jim Cunningham and Anna Singer. This role is designed to complement WQEDs established hosting team while helping preserve and extend the stations distinctive sound standards and connection to the regions cultural life.

The Fill-In Host will serve as an on-air voice of WQED-FM during assigned shifts presenting classical music with warmth accuracy and context. The role may also include hosting interviews for Voice of the Arts and other arts and culture features with opportunities to learn from respected colleagues as WQED expands its team of classical music and arts communicators.

Key Responsibilities

On-Air Hosting

• Host live classical music programming during assigned shifts typically four hours.
• Deliver engaging conversational on-air breaks with accurate and compelling information about composers works performers and recordings.
• Maintain a warm knowledgeable tone that reflects WQED-FMs sound standards and audience expectations
• Provide context that enhances listener understanding and enjoyment of classical music
• Prepare for each assigned shift with attention to repertoire pronunciation timing and station priorities
• Participate in WQED-FM fund drives making clear authentic mission-centered appeals for listener support while maintaining the stations trusted tone and relationship with its audience.

Music Knowledge & Presentation

• Accurately pronounce composer and artist names titles ensembles venues and musical terminology
• Introduce and back-announce selections clearly and concisely
• Incorporate connections to Pittsburghs arts and cultural community as appropriate
• Bring curiosity care and good judgment to the presentation of classical music for both longtime listeners and newer audiences

Technical Operation

• Operate the audio control board and automation systems independently after training
• Execute smooth transitions between live breaks recorded segments underwriting station messaging and music playback
• Monitor audio levels and maintain broadcast quality throughout assigned shifts
• Troubleshoot minor technical issues during live broadcasts and communicate larger issues promptly
• Follow station logs timing requirements and operating procedures accurately
• Interviews and Local Arts Coverage
• Host interviews for Voice of the Arts and similar features as assigned
• Prepare thoughtful questions and conduct interviews that are informed conversational and respectful of guests work
• Highlight Pittsburgh-area arts organizations performances artists and cultural initiatives
• Support station initiatives that deepen WQEDs connection to the regions arts community

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of classical music repertoire composers performers and terminology
• Prior on-air radio audio hosting podcasting or comparable presentation experience
• Strong verbal communication skills and clear professional delivery
• Ability to work independently in a live broadcast environment
• Strong preparation habits and attention to detail
• Technical proficiency or willingness to learn audio board operation automation systems and WQED-FM procedures
• Availability for part-time on-call shifts which may include weekdays evenings weekends holidays or coverage for scheduled absences

• Experience in public media or classical music broadcasting
• Familiarity with Pittsburghs arts and cultural landscape including music theatre dance visual arts festivals and cultural institutions
• Background in music performance education musicology or a related field
• Experience conducting interviews with artists performers conductors composers educators or community leaders
• Existing connection to the Pittsburgh region

Key Attributes

• Warm authentic and relatable communicator who can build trust with listeners
• Self-sufficient and confident operating solo in a live studio environment
• Calm under pressure with the ability to recover smoothly from on-air challenges
• Passionate and knowledgeable about classical music public media and community service
• Curious about Pittsburghs cultural life and eager to help listeners feel connected to it
• Respectful collaborator who values WQED-FMs established sound hosts audience relationships and public service mission

Schedule Pay & Benefits

• On-call position classified as a temporary Project Employee
• Flexible schedule between 5 and 30 hours per week depending on station needs and employee availability
• Hourly non-exempt position
• Pay range: $24$28 per hour based on experience.
• No benefits or paid time off beyond what is required by the Allegheny County Paid Sick Leave Ordinance and the City of Pittsburgh Paid Sick Days Act

Required Cover Letter

Applications must include a cover letter. Please briefly address the following:

1. Your knowledge of and connection to Pittsburghs arts and culture community
2. Your commitment to community service and public media values
3. Your knowledge of and passion for classical music and the fine arts

WQED Multimedia is a fair and equal employer providing access and opportunities to all applicants without regard to race color creed religious beliefs gender gender identity self expression sexual orientation marital status age national origin ethnicity ancestry citizenship disability medical condition pregnancy veteran status membership in the uniformed services genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable law and as directed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. WQED Multimedia provides equitable consideration for employment for qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with relevant legal requirements. Qualified applicants with a disability or disabled veterans who are unable or limited in their ability to apply (as a result of their disability) have the right to request reasonable accommodation by emailing