Opportunity: Overnight Radio DJ at KEXP
Opportunity Overview: Overnight Radio DJ at KEXP
The most actionable and distinctive opportunity currently available for DJs is the Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ position at KEXP in Seattle. This role offers a rare combination of on air creative freedom, association with a globally respected independent radio brand, and steady paid hours for experienced curators who are comfortable working overnight. For DJs who care about discovery, storytelling, and community radio, this opening is a major chance to move beyond standard club or event work and into broadcast media.
According to the official KEXP job listing, Friends of KEXP are recruiting a part time Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ to host and produce live radio between midnight and 6 AM as needed. The position is hourly, non exempt, and focused on delivering high quality music programming that reflects KEXP’s commitment to independent artists and diverse sounds.
Who This Opportunity Is For
This role is ideal for DJs who already have strong skills in selection and sequencing, and who want to bring those strengths into a radio format. It is best suited to:
- Experienced DJs with a deep and broad music library, especially beyond mainstream club hits.
- Selectors who enjoy introducing listeners to new artists, catalog cuts, and underrepresented scenes.
- DJs comfortable speaking on the microphone, framing sets, and presenting back announcing tracks.
- Curators with an ear for genre fluid programming, since the show is described as a Variety Mix, not a single style format.
- Individuals who can reliably work overnight hours and maintain energy and focus during late night broadcasts.
Because this is a public radio environment, the fit is especially strong for DJs who value editorial standards, community service, and inclusive programming, rather than purely commercial or festival contexts.
Key Details: Role, Pay, and Schedule
The Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ role is part time, with shifts scheduled between midnight and 6 AM. As a fill in host, the successful candidate will cover overnight broadcasts as needed, which can include regular recurring slots in addition to coverage for other talent.
The official listing states an hourly rate of 35 US dollars, and identifies the role as non exempt. That structure makes the opportunity attractive for DJs who want predictable pay within a respected organization, rather than variable event based income. Working in the Uptown area of Seattle, the DJ will operate from KEXP’s studio facilities, benefitting from professional engineering support and an established audience.
How to Apply and Timeline
Application is handled directly through KEXP’s hiring portal. Candidates are asked to submit a resume, a cover letter, and responses to specific screener questions, all via the online system. Technical issues with the application can be addressed via the email contact listed in the posting.
The listing specifies a closing date of February 16, 2026. That means DJs interested in the role must prepare and submit their materials before that deadline to be considered. Given typical public radio hiring processes, strong applications will likely demonstrate both on air or DJ experience and clear alignment with KEXP’s mission and music culture.
To apply, visit the KEXP jobs page for the Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ position, review the detailed role description, then complete the online application form with all required documents.
Why This Opportunity Matters for DJs
For working DJs, radio roles like this can significantly broaden a career. Instead of focusing only on dancefloor response, an overnight variety show allows space for long form storytelling through music, deep cuts, and genre blends that would be difficult to attempt in a busy club or wedding setting. It is a chance to build a named on air presence, craft themed episodes, and reach listeners who tune in specifically for discovery.
The association with KEXP is also substantial. The station is globally recognized for championing independent artists, live sessions, and thoughtful programming. Securing an on air role there can strengthen a DJ’s professional profile, open doors to future music industry collaborations, and provide a platform to support scenes they care about, from local Seattle acts to international underground movements.
For DJs looking to transition into broader media work, such as podcast hosting, music journalism, or curation roles at streaming platforms, this kind of radio experience is highly valuable. It demonstrates the ability to plan and deliver engaging audio content on a deadline, work within editorial guidelines, and maintain quality during off peak hours.
In practical terms, the Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ job at KEXP stands out among current opportunities because it connects live performance skills with broadcast reach, offers clear pay and a defined schedule, and sits within a respected cultural institution. For the right DJ, it can be a strong next step in building a sustainable, multifaceted career in music.
Source: Official KEXP employment listing for the Overnight Fill In Variety Mix DJ position