Production Assistant, The Whole Story

About the role

CNN seeks a talented Production Assistant to join The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper! This role may be located in New York or Atlanta. This role will also work with the Fareed Zakara Documentary team in NY.

Responsibilities

• Work closely with show and other unit producers to execute documentary projects and long form stories– from inception to completion.
• Perform heavy research and telephone reporting.
• Conduct pre‑interviews.
• Coordinate logistics for field production.
• Work closely with producers and associate producers to find the best video and elements within CNN systems and third‑party sources.
• Responsible for all show transcriptions.
• Organize and maintain assets via the Grid, SharePoint, etc.
• Populate scripts with appropriate asset suggestions and assist Editors throughout the project.
• Work closely with rights and clearances, affiliate desk, and assignment desks to ensure the best and latest video is acquired, used and credited properly.
• Responsible for pitching ideas and stories.
• Help with the weekly production of the taped show, from control room duties to post‑production to deliver the show.

Qualifications

• One or more years of experience in TV/news/digital production.
• Long form documentary experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism or related field of study is preferred, or equivalent experience.
• Familiarity with databases such as MediaSource, MIRA, and the CNN Library is very helpful.
• Proficiency with archive sources, such as Getty Images and Associated Press is very helpful.
• Must demonstrate strong research skills.
• Must demonstrate strong initiative, commitment, and interpersonal skills.
• Must be team‑oriented, able to take direction from producers and editors, capable of meeting deadlines and functioning calmly in high‑pressure situations, including breaking news.
• Must be flexible and able to work an extended schedule as the news cycle and deadlines require.

Pay

Pay Range: $43,112.00 - $80,065.00 salary per year. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, short- and long-term incentives, and program-specific awards.

Benefits

• health insurance coverage
• employee wellness program
• life and disability insurance
• retirement savings plan
• paid holidays
• sick time
• vacation

Schedule

This role requires long hours, including nights/weekends/holidays, and may require assisting in production of breaking news specials. Must be flexible and able to work an extended schedule as the news cycle and deadlines require.