Careers at Kansas City PBS

Whether you are a seasoned professional in the field or a newbie with innovative ideas, please take a moment to check out the various job opportunities currently available at our station. If you have questions or if your organization would like to be notified of future job vacancies at Kansas City PBS, please email our team at humanresources@kansascitypbs.org.

The Organization

Kansas City PBS is entering a bold new era, powered by a newly renovated, state-of-the-art headquarters designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and community engagement. As President & CEO, this position will lead dynamic TV, radio and digital media brands that inform, inspire, and connect the people of Kansas City through trusted public media programming and alternative, non-commercial music programming, with an emphasis on music discovery.

The position requires a forward-thinking leader, who can navigate the changing media landscape, engage deeply with the greater Kansas City community, drive revenue growth, and champion entrepreneurial strategies. Working closely with a dedicated Board of Directors and a talented team, this leader will shape policies, oversee fiscal responsibility, and cultivate partnerships that amplify our reach and relevance.

Kansas City

Kansas City is a thriving city—home to championship-caliber sports teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, the Kansas City Royals, Sporting Kansas City, and the Kansas City Current. This fast-growing Midwest metro is an excellent place to live for job opportunities, top-rated universities, pro sports events, an incredible arts culture, a robust philanthropic environment and—of course—some of the best barbecue in America. The “Paris of the Plains” is one of the most affordable places to live in the U.S. offering great neighborhoods for families and young professionals.

Within the 33 rd largest media market in the country, Kansas City PBS and its sister station The Bridge at 90.9 FM are uniquely positioned to deliver meaningful content that resonates across platforms and generations. We seek candidates who are passionate about public media, committed to community engagement, and eager to lead in a city that values creativity and progress.

Position overview

This is an opportunity for an innovative leader with a proven track record to create a next generation public media model. The goal of Kansas City PBS is to move the organization to become a more central part of the entire community we serve – reflecting and empowering community stakeholders, life-long learners, and new audiences who appreciate quality programs and services, delivered on the most innovative platforms available.

Among the President and CEO’s responsibilities:

• Oversees the operations of all media assets, ensuring high-quality content across all platforms (radio, television, web, mobile, and social media).
• Leads a team of more than 42 full-time staff and manage an annual operating budget exceeding $12 million. Position scope includes directing the licensed PBS station at Channel 19 in Kansas City and the non-profit AAA music radio station at 90.9 FM – The Bridge. 
• In collaboration with the Board of Directors, staff and community, develops and implements a strategic plan and vision for a public media institution that effectively delivers innovative, relevant, and creative programming in service to the Kansas City community.
• Ensure financial sustainability and growth through grants acquisition, direct fundraising, mid-level and major giving.
• With the board, stewards KCPBS assets including the endowment and other financial reserves.
• Serves with fiscal integrity, maximizes resource use and assures the organization is operating efficiently.
• With a committed group of stakeholders, the leader will be expected to grow the organization and expand the mission by building relationships throughout the community and optimizing organizational talent.
• Culture Leadership 
  Creates a diverse, inclusive and team-based organizational culture built on values of respect, openness, transparency, communication, collaboration, and innovation. Attracts, recruits, leads, develops, mentors, and motivates a diverse staff ensuring everyone is connected to the organization's mission, vision, and shared values.
• Creative Innovation
  In this time of change, leads with an entrepreneurial approach, inspires others to look at emerging trends and techniques to deliver inventive original programming, education and services to the viewership and the community at-large.
• Journalism and Civic Leadership:  
  Places a strong emphasis on fact-based journalism and local coverage, maintaining a culture of editorial integrity and independence. Expands current multi-media initiatives, building on the work of The Hale Center for Journalism, founded in 2013. Develops local content, including educational resources, documentaries, and short-form videos. Through its association with the Kansas City Media Collective, KCPBS collaborates with other nonprofit news outlets to support and enhance local journalism. 
• Community Engagement: 
  Invites and empowers audience members to be part of a growing community focus, as a convener and a source of local news, documentaries, culture and information.  The Bridge offers the opportunity to expand the organization’s impact by showcasing local music and musicians and arts and cultural opportunities.
• Board Relations:
  Works closely with the Board of Directors to fulfill the organization’s mission. Develops positive, collaborative relationships with the Board providing proactive communications, support to committees and leadership in the strategic planning process.

Experience and education

The preferred candidate will bring significant experience in a senior leadership role and with a demonstrated ability in managing innovation and change. A true collaborator and an inclusive leader, the ideal candidate will bring strong business acumen, a track record of developing a strategy and shared vision in a collaborative manner with key stakeholders and the demonstrated ability to execute a plan and deliver results.  

• Experience in leading an organization and reporting to a board of directors is preferred.
• Experience creating a diverse, positive team-based work environment in collaboration with staff.
• A proven track record of building and leveraging relationships within and among key stakeholders in the community, along with government, non-profits and local businesses is required.
• Proven successful fiscal management required and fundraising experience preferred.
• At least seven years of experience in a leadership role within broadcast/digital media, nonprofit management or a related industry preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree required. Advanced degree, relevant continuing education, etc. preferred.

Key leadership competencies

1. Strategic & Visionary Leadership
   • Visionary leader with the ability to articulate and execute a clear strategic direction
   • Strategic thinker with an enterprise-wide perspective
   • Innovative and future-focused
   • Creative problem solver
   • Decisive and action-oriented
   • Comfortable taking informed, calculated risks
   • Entrepreneurial, agile, and adaptable in evolving environments
   • Mission-driven with a sense of urgency and accountability
2. Community Engagement & External Leadership
   • Skilled convener and coalition builder
   • Collaborative and partnership-driven
   • Authentic community ambassador and relationship builder
   • Proven fundraising and resource development success
   • Deep appreciation for and commitment to the Kansas City community
   • Fosters and guides partnerships with other civic organizations
3. Interpersonal Effectiveness & Culture Leadership
   • Exceptional listener and communicator
   • Empathetic leader
   • Open-minded and intellectually curious
   • Builds trust across diverse stakeholders
   • Demonstrates humility, warmth, and a sense of humor

How to apply
The Board of Directors of Kansas City PBS is offering a very competitive salary and benefits package. The public media search organization, NETA Consulting, is partnering with the Kansas City PBS search committee in this process.

Candidates should submit applications to Apply@netaconsulting.org. Required: A letter of introduction; your resume and a one-page vision statement for leading Kansas City PBS. For optimum consideration, applications should be received by April 10, 2026. For additional information related to this search, please contact Linda O’Bryon (linda@netaconsulting.org), Tom Rieland (tom@netaconsulting.org) or Malcolm Brett (malcolm@netaconsulting.org) at NETA Consulting.

Kansas City PBS is an E-Verify, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Location: Kansas City, MO
Salary Range: $54,000-$57,000
Reports to: Content & Programming Manager
FLSA classification: Hourly/Nonexempt

Job summary:
Reporting to the Programming & Content Manager, this administrative position provides logistical support for local productions and ensures broadcast schedules are completed on time and support engaged audiences. The ideal candidate will excel in project management, recurring data entry, managing timelines and schedules, streamlined communications, and coordinating tasks across a spectrum of station projects. Successful candidates will possess a passion for smooth project execution and logistics and serving in a support role for a dynamic and creative team.

Job functions:

• Work with Programming & Content Manager to build and disseminate KCPBS’ monthly broadcast schedules with a focus on continuity, accurate data entry, and compliance in broadcast operations.
• Respond to program-related customer questions in a timely and informative manner.
• Coordinate timelines for local productions tracking deliverables and due dates, ensuring stakeholders are informed and ensuring deadlines are met.
• Coordinate and schedule equipment and vehicle needs for internal production.
• Schedule photographers as needed.
• Upload approved video files to digital distribution platforms following best practices laid out by the Kansas City PBS production team.
• Work with the content team to ensure assets are delivered to appropriate project management applications.
• Maintain production vehicle, scheduling regular maintenance and repair, and maintaining registration.
• Work with the Traffic team to ensure timely communication for log entry and communicate broadcast schedule changes, program information alerts from PBS, and ratings to key stakeholders in a timely manner.
• Coordinate the collection of local programming and service metrics to share with marketing team and other internal stakeholders.
• Track production-related grant and corporate underwriting deliverables ensuring contracts are fulfilled.
• Maintain and track tools, subscriptions, and platforms across the production department.
• Maintain the equipment inventory system by identifying missing or damaged items and ensuring proper check‑in/check‑out protocols are followed by staff.
• Work across departments to maintain open lines of communication about projects and deadlines.
• Ensure key stakeholders have all the information and resources required for maximum efficiency, including the maintenance of calendars, daily scheduling and project management software.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required skills/abilities:

• Exceptional organization, process mindset and demonstrated strong attention to detail.
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for detailed, process‑driven work and accurate data entry.
• Ability to work flexibly on multiple projects simultaneously, and across teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Working knowledge of Trello or related project management tools a plus.
• Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing spreadsheets, databases and other organizational software.

Education and experience required (an equivalent amount of training, education and experience will be considered):

• Undergraduate degree in media studies, digital media, Library and Information Sciences, Or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• Minimum 1 year in related field required.
• Project management experience is preferred.
  
   

How to Apply

If interested in this exciting opportunity, send cover letter and resume to humanresources@kansascitypbs.org. Please include in your cover letter how you found out about this position.

Kansas City PBS is an E-Verify, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Reports to: Chief Content Officer
FLSA classification: Salary/Exempt
Salary range: $66,000-$70,000

Job summary:
Content & Programming Manager serves as a central connector for internal teams, external partners, and the station’s diverse audiences. This role supports strong operational precision, ensuring productions are scheduled and executed accurately, and that programming recommendations align with the station’s mission and audience needs. The Manager oversees a team of production operations professionals working across multiple functions, supporting efficient workflows and consistent execution. In collaboration with leadership, the Manager helps ensure a high‑quality broadcast and digital content service by monitoring program acquisition opportunities and maintaining an ongoing understanding of content inventory and performance to guide strategic decision‑making. With an exceptional eye for detail, this role ensures accuracy, consistency, and clarity across schedules, metadata, archives, and partner communications.

Job functions:

• Lead the development and execution of monthly broadcast schedules, including program acquisitions, thematic programming, and long‑term planning.
• Liaise with PBS programmers, monitor long‑lead calendars, and ensure internal teams are informed of PBS priorities and programming opportunities.
• Review acquisition opportunities and share recommendations with key stakeholders.
• Supervise internal production roles (Production Specialist, Studio Coordinator, Part‑time Producer, Content Coordinator) and coordinate with external contractors.
• Coordinate internal production needs with the Content Coordinator to ensure staff, equipment, vehicles, and engineering resources are scheduled as needed.
• Support studio and field production workflows, ensuring efficient operations across all content initiatives.
• Partner with Development to execute on‑air fundraising strategies.
• Collaborate with Marketing to develop and implement on‑air promotions and thematic campaigns.
• Maintain timely communication with internal stakeholders about programming priorities, long‑range plans, and content updates.
• Work with Programming & Content Manager and YouTube internal lead to share timely metrics and adjust titles, thumbnails and keywords as needed to support video impression goals.
• Serve as project manager for the annual live broadcast of the Kansas City Symphony’s Celebration at the Station.
• Other Duties as Assigned.
   

Required skills/abilities:

• Demonstrated enthusiasm and aptitude for detailed, process‑driven work and accurate data entry.
• Ability to work flexibly on multiple projects simultaneously, and across teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing spreadsheets, databases and other organizational software.
• Strong cross-department communication and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Data literacy and reporting skills and ability to summarize trends and share insights
• Digital Asset Management system or other digital archive experience preferred.
• Customer-first communication skills with sound judgment and professionalism.

Education and experience required (An equivalent amount of training, education and experience will be considered):

• Bachelor's degree in media studies, communication, marketing, Library and Information Sciences, or a related field preferred.
• Equivalent education and relevant experience will be considered.
• Experience with Trello or related project management tools a plus.
• Management experience required.
• 3+ years in administrative role in media, marketing, project management, or a similar deadline- driven environment required.
  
  How to Apply

If interested in this exciting opportunity, send cover letter and resume to humanresources@kansascitypbs.org. Please include in your cover letter how you found out about this position.

Kansas City PBS is an E-Verify, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Internship Terms (dates can be flexible)

Spring: January – May (decision date: October)

Summer: May – August (decision date: February)

Fall: August – December (decision date: May)

Location: 

Kansas City, MO

Reports to: 

Digital Engagement Manager

Classification: 

Part-time, Hourly

Salary Range: 

$00.00-$00.00

About KCPBS:

At Kansas City PBS, a rich legacy of service has laid the foundation for a limitless future with our community. Our content platforms — television, radio, digital and education — exist to serve our region. We advance conversations through community engagement and social media, explore complicated issues with thoughtful reporting, and share the stories of people, places, and progress in our community. 

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Digital Engagement Manager, this part-time, temporary role is a vital resource for the entire Marketing department. While the primary focus is on implementing the social media strategy for Kansas City PBS, Flatland, and 90.9 The Bridge, the intern will also provide crucial support across various marketing functions, including web management, drafting press releases, proofing marketing grids, and other miscellaneous marketing assistance.

This position plays a key role in translating marketing and development goals into compelling social media and digital content. The intern will support the creation of relevant, engaging content that deepens the station’s relationship with audiences, accurately reflects our mission, and drives social media audience engagement and growth. They will also collaborate with producers to effectively promote local content across all digital and broadcast platforms.

The ideal candidate is tapped into pop culture and social trends, demonstrating the ability to not just follow but trend-set. They possess a genuine passion for social media and community engagement, keen attention to detail, and exceptional writing skills. 

What You Will Learn:

• This internship is designed to be a significant learning experience that provides tangible, career-ready skills. Upon completion of this placement, the intern will have gained:
• Hands-on experience supporting the development of and executing a comprehensive social media strategy for three distinct media brands (Kansas City PBS, 90.9 The Bridge, and Flatland) in a professional setting
• Proficiency in creating and editing multimedia content (graphics, short-form video) specifically optimized for different digital platforms and experience with content scheduling tools (i.e. Hootsuite).
• Practical knowledge of day-to-day marketing operations, including the process of drafting official communications like press releases and managing departmental planning grids.
• Exposure to the fundamentals of website maintenance and content management systems (CMS).
• Understanding of how to interpret social media metrics and analytics to measure performance and adjust strategies that drive engagement and growth.
• Experience working effectively within a professional media organization, collaborating with production, communications, and membership teams to achieve shared organizational goals.

Key Functions:

Social Media & Content Management 

• Support the creation and scheduling of brand-appropriate content, as well as posting in real-time daily across all social channels (Kansas City PBS, Flatland, 90.9 The Bridge).
• Work with key stakeholders to develop original content aligned with the unique brand voice and tone of each Kansas City PBS digital property.
• Support community engagement on social channels through direct responses to questions and interaction with comments to foster dialogue.
• Work with production staff and external production partners to identify opportunities for creating and distributing engaging short-form social media videos (e.g., Instagram Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts).
• Assist the Digital Engagement Manager and Communications and Engagement Manager in setting monthly and weekly priorities for each social media platform and supporting audience and engagement goals.

Cross-departmental Marketing Support

• Assist with content updates and maintenance on designated brand websites.
• Post and distribute various communications, including press releases, blog posts and media alerts.
• Provide general administrative and project assistance to the broader Marketing and Communications team as needed.

Qualifications:

• A genuine passion for pop culture, technology, and a commitment to staying up-to-date with emerging trends in social media and marketing.
• Excellent communication, professional writing, and grammar skills are essential.
• Highly detail-oriented with exceptional organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to take direction, work independently, and contribute collaboratively within a cross-departmental team.
• Availability to occasionally work outside of normal business hours for special events or campaigns.

Required Education and Experience:

• Pursuing or recently completed an undergraduate degree in Journalism, Communications, Marketing, or a related field (i.e. Film, Media). Equivalent job experience will be considered.
• Prior (and proven) experience managing or contributing to a professional social media account a plus.
• Experience editing and posting videos to social media platforms (e.g., Instagram/TikTok/YouTube Shorts).
• Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Premiere Pro, Photoshop) or equivalent digital media editing tools is a plus.
• A High School Diploma or GED Equivalent is required.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of public media in Kansas City. You’ll work with a passionate team, support meaningful storytelling, and make a lasting impact on how our community connects with trusted content.

How to Apply

If interested in this exciting opportunity, send cover letter and resume to humanresources@kansascitypbs.org. Please include in your cover letter how you found out about this position.

Kansas City PBS is an E-Verify, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.

Internship Terms (dates can be flexible)
Spring: January – May (decision date: October)
Summer: May – August (decision date: February)
Fall: August – December (decision date: May)

Location: 
Kansas City, MO

Reports to: 
Events Manager

Classification: 
Part-time, Hourly

Salary Range: 
$00.00-$00.00

About KCPBS:
At Kansas City PBS, a rich legacy of service has laid the foundation for a limitless future with our community. Our content platforms — television, radio, digital and education — exist to serve our region. We advance conversations through community engagement and social media, explore complicated issues with thoughtful reporting, and share the stories of people, places, and progress in our community. 

Position Summary:
Are you passionate about helping community-centered events come to life? Kansas City PBS is looking for an enthusiastic Events Intern to assist our team. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event planning, marketing, and community engagement with one of Kansas City’s most trusted local media organizations.

Reporting to the Events Manager, this part-time, temporary role is a vital resource for bringing our community-centered events to life. This is an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event planning, logistics management, public relations, and community engagement with one of Kansas City’s most trusted local media organizations.

The Events Intern is responsible for supporting the entire events lifecycle, from creative conceptualization and vendor coordination to hands-on execution and post-event analysis. The intern will provide crucial on-site support for both private and public events hosted by Kansas City PBS, Flatland, and 90.9 The Bridge.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, action-oriented, possesses excellent communication skills, and has a genuine passion for creating memorable and impactful experiences for the public.

What You Will Learn:

This internship is designed to be a significant learning experience that provides tangible, career-ready skills in the events and project management fields. Upon completion of this placement, the intern will have gained:

• Practical experience in the planning, coordination, execution, and breakdown phases of diverse events (screenings, fundraisers, community forums, etc.).
• Proficiency in managing vendor communications, contract tracking, scheduling logistics (catering, A/V, photography), and budget tracking for multiple concurrent projects.
• Hands-on ability to manage event flow, direct volunteers, coordinate setup/teardown, and quickly resolve day-of operational challenges.
• Exposure to creating event-specific collateral, including basic graphics, presentations, signage, and contributing creative ideas for audience engagement materials.
• Experience working effectively with internal teams (Marketing, Production, Membership) and external community partners to achieve successful event outcomes.

Key Functions:

• Events Planning & Logistics Coordination
• Participate actively in KCPBS team meetings, technical rehearsals, and live events, representing the Events team.
• Manage vendor communications and coordinate logistics, including scheduling meetings, arranging catering, booking photography/videography, and sourcing event materials.
• Assist with maintaining and organizing event supplies, equipment inventory, and managing recommended vendor lists.
• Assist with building tours and walkthroughs for facility rental inquiries.
• Collaborate with Marketing Intern to ensure that all materials are in alignment
   

Event Execution & On-Site Support

• Provide essential on-site support during events, including setup, teardown, registering guests, vendor coordination, volunteer direction, and guest assistance.
• Create necessary digital assets, such as slideshows, music playlists, and simple graphics/signage for event use.
• Contribute creative and actionable ideas for event elements, including handouts, activities, speaker needs, educational components, decor, and signage.
• Support other event-related responsibilities as tasked, ensuring all events run smoothly and professionally.
• 15 – 20 hours per week
• The standard schedule will typically be Tuesday – Thursday (times are flexible).
• Some weekends & evenings will be required based on the event schedule and will be agreed upon in advance

Required Skills:

• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and demonstrated
• professionalism when interacting with vendors, staff, and event attendees.
• Action-oriented with a proactive approach to anticipating needs and problem-solving.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience using event platforms such as Eventbrite are preferred.
• Proficiency in scheduling software and basic presentation/design tools (e.g., PowerPoint/Keynote/Canva).

Required Education and Experience:

• Currently enrolled in college/university program is preferred.
• Must be interested in event planning, communications, marketing, hospitality, or a related field.
• Prior event or project management experience (professional, academic, or volunteer) is highly desirable.
• High School Diploma or GED equivalent is required.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of public media in Kansas City. You’ll work with a passionate team, support meaningful community engagement, and make a lasting impact on how our community connects with trusted content.

How to Apply

If interested in this exciting opportunity, send cover letter and resume to humanresources@kansascitypbs.org. Please include in your cover letter how you found out about this position.

Kansas City PBS is an E-Verify, Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.