Associate Manager Programming
Apply Now Apply Later Job ID 10156336 Location Bristol, Connecticut, United States Business ESPN Date posted Aug. 05, 2026Job Summary:
The Associate Manager Programming supports the planning, execution, and maintenance of network programming schedules across ESPN platforms. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate schedule implementation, coordinating network-level graphics elements, managing programming adjustments, and supporting long-term strategic initiatives. The ideal candidate combines strong organizational skills, operational excellence, ability to communicate with executive level leadership, and a passion for sports and television programming.
Responsibilities:
Programming & Scheduling Operations
- Learn and apply network scheduling guidelines, operating procedures, and conditions philosophies.
- Populate join-in-progress (JIP) points and other critical on-air network information within scheduling systems such as NCS and Content Scheduler.
- Monitor scheduled programming and support the execution of schedule changes as needed.
- Prepare and distribute reports documenting programming and content decisions for department-wide communication.
Content Coordination
- Collaborate with the Content Strategy team to develop alternate programming solutions when schedule disruptions occur, including events that conclude earlier than expected.
- Provide operational support to ensure programming continuity across networks and platforms.
Network Graphics & Presentation
- Manage planning and execution of network-level graphics initiatives, including:
- Navigation pane coordination
- Bottom-line takeovers
- Other network presentation elements that support viewer navigation and engagement
Strategic Projects & Stakeholder Support
- Assist with long-term programming strategy and operational improvement projects.
- Attend sport-specific, project, and operational meetings as assigned, providing scheduling and conditions-related input and follow-up.
- Perform shift-specific responsibilities and other duties as assigned by management.
Required Qualifications:
- Minimum 2 years of experience working in television production.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Knowledge of television operations and scheduling processes.
- Ability to analyze information, solve problems, and adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Creative thinker with strong analytical skills and the ability to develop innovative solutions.
- Passion for sports and broad knowledge of sports rules and events.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Broadcasting, Media Studies, or a related field.
- Minimum 4 years of experience in television programming, production, operations, affiliate relations, media scheduling, or a related area.
- In-depth knowledge of schedule change procedures and broadcast operations.
- Experience working with scheduling systems such as NCS, Content Scheduler, or similar broadcast planning tools.
- Highly organized and detail oriented.
- Thrives in a deadline-driven, live-event environment.
- Strong collaborator who can effectively work across content, programming, and operations teams.
- Demonstrates sound judgment and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
- Passionate about delivering a seamless viewer experience through accurate and efficient programming execution.
#ESPNMedia
The hiring range for this position in Bristol, CT is $$65,300.00 to $87,500.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.
About ESPN:
Working at ESPN is unlike anything else. That’s because we’re always finding new ways to interact with fans – however and wherever they connect with sports. Every day we’re doing things that no one has done, all in a dynamic culture where we defy odds and continuously outdo ourselves. When you have the latest technology, game-changing ideas and world-class talent on your team, every day is extraordinary.
About The Walt Disney Company:
The Walt Disney Company, together with its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a leading diversified international family entertainment and media enterprise that includes three core business segments: Disney Entertainment, ESPN, and Disney Experiences. From humble beginnings as a cartoon studio in the 1920s to its preeminent name in the entertainment industry today, Disney proudly continues its legacy of creating world-class stories and experiences for every member of the family. Disney’s stories, characters and experiences reach consumers and guests from every corner of the globe. With operations in more than 40 countries, our employees and cast members work together to create entertainment experiences that are both universally and locally cherished.
This position is with ESPN Productions, Inc, which is part of a business we call ESPN.
ESPN Productions, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, medical condition, genetic information or disability, or any other basis prohibited by federal, state or local law. Disney champions a business environment where ideas and decisions from all people help us grow, innovate, create the best stories and be relevant in a constantly evolving world.