Mirkin was the executive script supervisor and writer for the popular television show, Newhart from 1982 to 1990.
In the early 1990s, Mirkin created an unusual television series with comedian Chris Elliott, entitled Get A Life, which he also usually wrote and directed. That show only lasted a couple of seasons, but has a loyal following of fans to this day. Around that same time, Mirkin became the executive producer and a writer for the popular animated series, The Simpsons.
From 1992 to 1998, Mirkin was one of several directors for the HBO series, The Larry Sanders Show.