Job Title: Scheduling Assistant
Company: Rapid Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd
Division: News and Programming
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
Job Type: Contract
Closing Date: 23 April 2026
Overview
Rapid Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd is inviting applications for a Scheduling Assistant position within its News and Programming division. This opportunity is based in Johannesburg and is ideal for candidates who have a strong interest in broadcast media, content coordination, and scheduling operations. The successful candidate will play a key supporting role in ensuring the smooth execution of daily programming activities, contributing to the overall efficiency and accuracy of broadcast schedules.
This role reports directly to the Forward Planning Editor and is suited to individuals who are detail-oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced media environment.
Role Purpose
The Scheduling Assistant will provide essential support to the scheduling team by managing daily programming updates and ensuring all broadcast-related data is accurate and up to date. The role focuses on coordinating scheduling logistics, updating programming systems, and maintaining communication between various internal departments such as production, marketing, and technical teams.
A key objective of this position is to ensure that all changes to programming schedules are correctly reflected across systems such as the Final Program Chart (FPC) and Electronic Programming Guide (EPG). The role also involves tracking performance, reporting discrepancies, and ensuring all broadcast elements are aligned before transmission.
Key Responsibilities
Programming and Scheduling Updates
- Maintain and update daily programming schedules on internal systems including FPC and EPG.
- Ensure that all schedule changes are accurately captured and communicated to relevant teams.
Content Coordination
- Monitor the receipt of promotional material from the promotions team.
- Verify that promotional content is uploaded to the appropriate FTP system and coordinate with the Master Control Room (MCR) to ensure files are correctly transferred and backed up before broadcast.
Reporting and Analysis
- Compile daily and weekly reports on commercial airtime, including any dropped or missed commercials.
- Share reports with both internal stakeholders and external partners such as MultiChoice.
- Track competitor programming and provide insights on activities across other news channels.
Metadata and Content Information Management
- Liaise with producers to obtain synopses for new shows or segments.
- Ensure all content descriptions are reviewed and approved by the head of marketing before being published on the EPG.
Broadcast Coordination
- Follow up with Executive Producers (EPs) to ensure that L-boards (lower third graphics) are prepared and aired as scheduled.
- Monitor on-air performance of programming and report any inconsistencies or issues.
Performance Tracking
- Keep detailed records of programming performance and scheduling accuracy.
- Provide daily feedback on whether all scheduled elements, including L-boards and commercials, were successfully broadcast.
Minimum Requirements
- A degree in Administration or a related field, or an equivalent qualification.
- Previous experience in a scheduling, research, or broadcast coordination role.
- Familiarity with programming systems and broadcast workflows will be advantageous.
Skills and Competencies
Organizational Ability
The ideal candidate must demonstrate excellent time management skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Strong planning and coordination abilities are essential for maintaining accurate schedules and meeting tight deadlines.
Communication Skills
Clear and professional communication is critical in this role. The Scheduling Assistant must interact with various teams, including producers, marketing personnel, and technical staff, ensuring that all scheduling requirements are understood and executed.
Attention to Detail
A high level of accuracy is required when updating schedules, managing metadata, and compiling reports. Even minor errors can impact broadcast operations, making attention to detail a key requirement.
Analytical Thinking
The ability to analyze scheduling data, track performance, and identify trends is important. Candidates should be comfortable working with numerical information and interpreting data to support decision-making.
Initiative and Flexibility
This role requires someone who can take initiative and work independently when needed. A flexible approach is essential, as the broadcasting environment can be dynamic with frequent last-minute changes.
Interpersonal Skills
The ability to build and maintain strong working relationships across departments is crucial. The Scheduling Assistant must collaborate effectively with teams at all levels within the organization.
Work Environment
This position operates within a fast-paced broadcast media setting where deadlines are critical and accuracy is non-negotiable. The Scheduling Assistant will be part of a collaborative team that ensures seamless programming delivery to viewers. The role may require working under pressure, particularly when handling last-minute schedule adjustments or resolving broadcast issues.
Core Values
Rapid Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd seeks candidates who align with the following values:
- Results-Driven: A focus on delivering high-quality outcomes and meeting deadlines consistently.
- Integrity: Maintaining honesty and professionalism in all aspects of work.
- Viewer-Centric Approach: Prioritizing the viewing experience by ensuring accurate and timely programming.
- Innovation: Embracing new ideas and improving processes within the scheduling function.
- Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals.
Why Apply
This role offers a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the broadcast media industry. It is particularly suited for individuals looking to build a career in television programming, media operations, or content scheduling. The position provides exposure to industry-standard systems, cross-functional collaboration, and real-time broadcast operations.
Candidates who are passionate about media, thrive in structured yet dynamic environments, and enjoy working with data and schedules will find this role both challenging and rewarding.
Application Process
Interested applicants should ensure their applications are submitted before the closing date of 23 April 2026. Only candidates who meet the minimum requirements and demonstrate the necessary competencies will be considered for the role.
This Scheduling Assistant position represents a strong entry point into the broadcast industry, offering practical experience and the opportunity to contribute to a high-performing programming team.