Workplace Type: Onsite
Employment Type: FT
Job Location: Barberton, OH
JOB SUMMARY
Heartfelt Radio / WKJA is seeking a dynamic, Christ-centered Morning Show Host to lead and produce our weekday morning drive program. Reporting to the General Manager, this role is responsible for delivering engaging, interactive, and audience-centered content that honors the Lord and connects deeply with the Northeastern Ohio community.
As both Host and Producer, you will set the tone for our listeners each morning, bringing encouragement, biblical truth, and relevant local focus. This position requires creativity, strong on-air presence, technical proficiency, and a heart for ministry.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
On-Air Hosting & Production
- Prepare, produce, and present the weekday morning program (Monday–Friday, 5:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m.).
- Arrive early to plan, rehearse, and prepare content; remain available after the program for wrap-up duties.
- Lead and provide direction to a co-host, ensuring each program maintains high production standards, strong local emphasis, and is Christ-centered, engaging, edifying, and entertaining.
- Operate studio equipment and automation systems during live broadcasts, ensuring seamless, professional delivery.
Audience Growth & Engagement
- Develop and implement strategies to engage existing listeners and attract new ones.
- Support and participate in Sharathons, promotions, and fundraising campaigns, both on-air and at community events.
- Actively represent WKJA at public events, remote broadcasts, and ministry opportunities, serving as a positive ambassador for the station.
- Collaborate with the Listener Engagement Coordinator to maximize personal interaction with listeners through special events, outreach projects, and ministry activities.
Fundraising, Sponsorships & Underwriting
- Assist with fundraising efforts by developing and maintaining local sponsorships and underwriting packages in alignment with FCC regulations for non-commercial content.
- Build and maintain strong, ongoing relationships with sponsors and underwriters for the benefit of both WKJA and the supporting organizations.
Team Collaboration & Ministry Contribution
- Work closely with the General Manager, programming staff, and national ministries to support promotions and initiatives.
- Contribute to a team environment by assisting coworkers, offering support across departments, and seeking guidance when needed.
- Embrace opportunities for ministry, prayer, and outreach as part of the station’s mission.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Required
- Agreement with and commitment to the mission and Statement of Faith of Heartfelt Radio / WKJA.
- Previous on-air broadcast experience with demonstrated on-air personality, strong voice, and listener engagement ability.
- Proficiency with radio automation systems (e.g., ENCO, WideOrbit, RCS, or similar), audio boards, and digital editing software (e.g., Audacity, Adobe Audition).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, including telephone and interpersonal skills.
- Computer proficiency, including word processing, spreadsheets, and digital media platforms.
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and maintain confidentiality.
- Availability for occasional evenings, weekends, travel, and community events as required.
Preferred
- Degree in Communications, Journalism, Media, or related field (or equivalent professional experience).
- Experience with podcasting, livestreaming, and social media platforms for listener engagement.
- Fundraising and/or sponsorship sales experience in a nonprofit or ministry environment.
PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
- A strong and consistent Christian walk with a passion for sharing the Gospel.
- Authentic, engaging, and approachable on-air presence.
- Team-oriented with a collaborative spirit, yet able to take initiative independently.
- Adaptable to a changing media environment and open to new processes and technologies.
- Creative thinker with the ability to balance ministry focus with audience engagement.
WORKING CONDITIONS
- Standard on-air schedule: Monday–Friday, 5:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. (with additional prep and wrap-up time expected).
- Flexibility required for fundraising campaigns, community events, and remote broadcasts.
Position is based at WKJA headquarters in Barberton, Ohio.