KCRW DJ

Who Are We

We are a global community that is driven by the creative spirit of Los Angeles. Through an inspiring mix of music, news, and culture, we bring joy and connection – online, in-person and on the radio. Always excellent, accessible, and often unexpected, we are a constant source of fuel for the imagination, education and good vibes. At least, that is what our members tell us.

As NPR’s flagship member station in Southern California for more than 30 years and a community service of Santa Monica College, KCRW is the next generation of public media.

How You’ll Make An Impact:

As KCRW continues to grow from a beloved public radio station into a vibrant, multi-platform destination for music and culture, our DJs remain central to how we inspire curiosity, foster community, and explore the evolving soundscape.

Being a KCRW DJ means more than spinning tracks; it’s about shaping a rich, immersive experience that reaches audiences on-air, online, and in real life. You bring a unique perspective, curatorial instinct, and technical skill to every set, translating a love of music into moments that resonate deeply with listeners.

Whether you’re championing emerging artists, unearthing forgotten gems, or weaving together genres in unexpected ways, your role helps define the station’s signature sound, one that is adventurous, inclusive, and always forward-thinking.

This opportunity is ideal for someone who lives and breathes music, stays tuned into cultural trends, and believes in the power of shared listening. You're not just a tastemaker, but a companion, someone who connects with a wide audience through authenticity, insight, and creativity. You thrive in collaboration, embrace innovation, and see every show as a chance to inspire and connect.

As part of the KCRW team, your work will span live hosting, musical exploration, community engagement, and behind-the-scenes collaboration, all contributing to the station’s mission and continued evolution.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

On-Air hosting + Show Production

Curate and host compelling, well-prepped music mixes with attention to flow, tone, connection to our audiences and storytelling.

Maintain familiarity with KCRW’s Top 30 charts, new album releases, and artist developments.

Research artists, trends, and themes to deepen the listener experience and reflect KCRW’s curatorial excellence.

Ensure playlists are accurate, complete, and submitted within 24 hours of airing.

Manage standard studio operations (e.g., board operation, profiles, EAS compliance, etc.) with technical proficiency.

Promote your brand as a KCRW DJ and the station via social media, and external channels to build community and grow audience no matter where they may interact with KCRW

Actively participate in DJ meetings, staff meetings, and required training sessions (e.g., interviewing workshops, air checks).

Be available for regular and substitute on-air shifts as needed.

Submit payroll on time and check KCRW email regularly for updates and coordination.

Give ample notice when requesting a substitute host.

Follow all KCRW protocols for studio conduct, including guest procedures, safety guidelines, and station policies.

Attend pledge drive meetings and actively participate in on-air fundraising efforts.

Help script or voice station IDs, promos, and imaging elements.
Represent the station at promotional events, concerts, remote broadcasts, and sponsor activations.

Emcee live events and manage on-site audience interaction.

Produce short-form audio/video content for social channels, livestreams, the KCRW app and digital exclusives for members.

Here’s What You’ll Bring:

A consistently high-quality on-air experience that builds audience trust and engagement.

Accurate, timely playlists and clear communication with staff and production teams.

Creative, well-researched programming that highlights new music and connects with listeners across platforms.

A collaborative presence in the station, supporting peers, attending meetings, and contributing to KCRW’s growth.

Strong relationships within the local and national music ecosystem, including artists, labels, managers, and creative collaborators.

Passion for KCRW’s mission and a belief in the power of music and storytelling to move hearts, minds, and culture.

Flexibility to work nights and weekends as needed for live sessions and special events.

Required Knowledge, Qualifications & Skills:

Minimum 2–3 years of experience hosting and/or producing live or recorded radio shows, podcasts, or music-related content/

Proficiency in audio production tools such as ProTools, Adobe Audition, or similar software, with the ability to edit, mix, and prepare audio content for broadcast.

Working knowledge of basic recording equipment and studio operations, including microphones, mixers, and playback systems.

Familiarity with digital scheduling and playout systems (e.g., Dalet, RCS, or similar) and content management tools for radio or digital audio platforms/

Comfort with basic graphic and digital tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe, Photoshop, or similar) to create materials for social media and station platforms.

Strong verbal communication skills and on-air presence, with the ability to engage and inform listeners while maintaining a distinctive voice and tone.

Solid knowledge of music and music culture, including multiple genres, artist histories, current trends, and emerging talent, including independent, local, and underrepresented scenes.

Experience curating playlists or programming music for a target audience, with an understanding of flow, mood, and musical storytelling.

Familiarity with digital and social media platforms (e.g., Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Spotify), including how to create content for maximum audience growth on the platform where it’s delivered.

Basic understanding of live show production, including voice tracking, recording segments, broadcasting, and live DJ sets or events.

Ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing the weekly production cycle of a regular show, from music selection and show prep to recording/editing and publishing.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to meet deadlines, manage audio assets, and maintain consistent show quality and branding.

What We Offer:

(Salary Range/Union minimum) $187.25 per on-air show
Sick leave award
Vacation leave accrual
Passionate office environment surrounded by an incredible community of curious and talented colleagues
KCRW is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness

(PSLF) program - read more here to determine your eligibility

This job is represented by SAG-AFTRA, the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists, which ensures that performers receive fair wages, working conditions, and benefits. Membership provides valuable support and resources for those in the industry.

KCRW employees covered by the 2022-2026 SAG-AFTRA/KCRW contract need to follow the union security article of the contract, become a full voting member or fee-paying non-member
There are annual base dues plus working dues of 1.575% of the previous calendar year's earnings
The broadcast initiation fee specific to KCRW is $720 for full time and $360 for part time and there are payment plans
Upon hire, SAG-AFTRA will be in contact with all necessary information
Candidates can discuss any union specific questions with a shop steward upon hire

KCRW aims to be representative of Southern California, and candidates with traditionally underrepresented backgrounds and perspectives are encouraged to apply. KCRW is an equal opportunity employer and actively recruits to promote diversity in our workforce. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, status as a parent, national origin, disability, family medical history or genetic information, political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors.

KCRW Inc Music Jobs

New Jobs

Music DJ