About Company
Universal Music Group (UMG) is the world leader in music-based entertainment, with a broad array of businesses engaged in recorded music, music publishing, merchandising, and audiovisual content in more than 60 countries. We identify and develop recording artists and songwriters, and we produce, distribute, and promote the most critically acclaimed and commercially successful music in the world. Our vast catalogue of recordings and songs includes some of the most important and enduring music in history. We are committed to artistic innovation, embracing new technologies, and a diverse and inclusive workplace. At UMG, we believe in the power of music to inspire, connect, and transform lives, and we foster a culture where creativity thrives and boundaries are continually pushed. Join our team and be a part of shaping the future of global music.
Job Description
Are you a highly creative and data-savvy individual with an unparalleled passion for music across diverse genres? Universal Music Group is seeking a talented Playlist Curator to join our dynamic remote team. While the role is nominally associated with our operations in Phoenix, Arizona, this is a fully remote position open to exceptional candidates based in Houston, Texas, who possess the expertise to craft compelling and trend-setting playlists. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in shaping the sonic landscape for millions of listeners worldwide, driving discovery and engagement across various digital streaming platforms. You’ll combine your deep musical knowledge with analytical insights to identify emerging artists, anticipate cultural trends, and optimize existing content for maximum impact. This is more than just selecting songs; it’s about understanding listener behavior, collaborating with artists and labels, and leveraging data to tell powerful musical stories. Your work will directly influence listener habits, artist exposure, and UMG’s strategic presence in the digital music ecosystem. If you thrive in a fast-paced, innovative environment and are ready to contribute to the forefront of music curation, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Curate, update, and manage a diverse portfolio of playlists across various digital streaming platforms, ensuring freshness and relevance.
- Utilize data analytics and listener insights to inform playlist strategy, optimize performance, and identify growth opportunities.
- Research and identify emerging artists, sounds, and musical trends across multiple genres and global markets.
- Collaborate closely with A&R, marketing, and label teams to support artist releases and promotional campaigns through strategic playlisting.
- Monitor competitive landscape and digital trends to ensure UMG’s playlists remain innovative and leading-edge.
- Maintain a deep understanding of music rights, licensing, and platform-specific guidelines.
- Provide regular reports on playlist performance, audience engagement, and cultural impact.
- Act as a tastemaker and advocate for diverse musical talent, contributing to UMG’s commitment to artistic and cultural diversity.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in music curation, A&R, or digital content management within the music industry.
- Demonstrable deep passion for and encyclopedic knowledge of multiple music genres, both mainstream and niche.
- Proficiency in data analytics tools (e.g., Spotify for Artists, Chartmetric, internal analytics platforms) to interpret listener behavior and trends.
- Strong understanding of digital streaming platforms (Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, etc.) and their respective ecosystems.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a remote team environment.
- Proven ability to identify and anticipate musical trends and artist potential.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Self-motivated and able to work independently with minimal supervision.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Music Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
- Experience with music metadata management systems.
- Established network within the music industry (artists, managers, labels).
- Familiarity with intellectual property rights and digital distribution.
- Proficiency in multiple languages is a plus.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) plan with company matching.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Flexible remote work environment.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- Employee assistance program.
- Access to exclusive music events and artist showcases.
- Dynamic and inclusive company culture at the forefront of the music industry.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to click on the application link below to submit their resume and a compelling cover letter. Please highlight your experience in music curation, your analytical skills, and your passion for specific genres. Tell us about a playlist you’ve curated that you’re particularly proud of and why.