macos-task-scheduler

Manage macOS launchd plist files for automated background task scheduling.

2|Updated Apr 30, 2026

Search Tags:#automation #macos #scheduling #sysadmin #launchd #plist

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/ShaggyD/agent-toolkit --skill macos-task-scheduler

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: macos-task-scheduler
Source: https://github.com/ShaggyD/agent-toolkit/tree/main/productivity/macos-task-scheduler
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ShaggyD/agent-toolkit --skill macos-task-scheduler

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill eliminates the complexity of manually writing and managing XML-based launchd plist files, preventing common configuration errors and silent job failures.

Core Features & Use Cases

Lifecycle Management: Simplifies the loading, unloading, starting, and stopping of background tasks.
Configuration Templates: Provides standardized structures for scheduling scripts to run at specific intervals or calendar times.
Use Case: Automate daily database backups or recurring system maintenance scripts without needing to manually edit XML or navigate complex man pages.

Quick Start

Use the macos-task-scheduler skill to generate a launchd plist for a script that runs every day at 9 AM and register it with the system.

Frequently Asked Questions about macos-task-scheduler

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I create a launchd plist file for scheduling macOS background jobs?▼

To create a launchd plist for macOS background jobs, use the macos-task-scheduler skill to abstract XML syntax and generate standardized configuration templates for recurring system tasks. It simplifies defining intervals or calendar times without manual XML editing.

What is the best way to automate daily shell scripts on macOS without writing XML?▼

Automating daily shell scripts on macOS without writing XML is achieved by using the macos-task-scheduler skill, which abstracts plist file creation. It generates the required launchd configurations for you, preventing common syntax errors and silent job failures.

How do I load and unload macOS LaunchAgents using launchctl?▼

To load and unload macOS LaunchAgents, the macos-task-scheduler skill manages the complete lifecycle of background tasks by abstracting launchctl command execution. It handles loading, unloading, starting, and stopping jobs automatically without manual terminal input.

Do I need special permissions to modify user-level LaunchAgents on macOS?▼

Yes, modifying user-level LaunchAgents requires appropriate system permissions. The macos-task-scheduler skill needs valid shell script paths and the necessary privileges to modify user-level LaunchAgents to successfully register and execute recurring background jobs.

Why does my macOS launchd job fail silently when running a recurring task?▼

macOS launchd jobs often fail silently due to manual XML configuration errors in the plist file. The macos-task-scheduler skill eliminates this by providing standardized structures for scheduling, preventing common configuration mistakes during launchd setup.

Can I schedule a macOS maintenance script to run at a specific calendar time?▼

Yes, you can schedule a macOS maintenance script at a specific calendar time using the macos-task-scheduler skill. It provides configuration templates that facilitate scheduling recurring system jobs at defined intervals or specific calendar times like 9 AM daily.