8 Video Editing Jobs and How To Get One

Key Takeaways

Video editing turns raw footage into engaging content for film, social media, and digital platforms.

• Video editors deliver finished products such as films, wedding videos, and social media clips by cutting footage, adjusting color, adding sound or music, and applying effects.

• Video editing jobs are projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics [1].

• You can prepare to apply for video editing jobs by building a strong portfolio, technical editing skills, and gaining collaboration experience.

Learn more about video editing jobs and how to land one in the following article. If you're ready to get started right away, consider enrolling in the Adobe Premiere Pro for Beginners Specialization, in which you'll master essential video editing techniques like color grading, motion graphics, and cinematography. In as little as one month, you could earn a certificate for your resume.

8 video editing jobs to consider

Video editing skills apply across many industries, from entertainment to marketing and media. The following eight roles highlight common video editing jobs and show how your skills can support different career paths.

1. Videographer

Average annual base salary (US): $74,000 [2]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in a field related to film, communication, photography, or digital media; internship as a production assistant or video editor; and certifications 

Job description: Videographers are responsible for taking and editing video footage of specific events, such as weddings, graduations, or films. Their responsibilities vary based on their industry; however, they typically deliver long—or short-form content to companies, individuals, or brands.

Once you complete your education, you may choose to pursue video editing certifications, which will strengthen your resume and make you stand out to future employers. 

2. Assistant video editor

Average annual base salary (US): $66,000 [3]

Requirements: Entry-level video editing jobs often require a bachelor’s degree in a related subject, such as film production, graphic design, photography, or digital media. Technical skills, such as proficiency in using video editing software, are also needed.

Job description: As a more junior position within the industry, an assistant editor often works beneath a more experienced video editor. You assist them with tasks such as organizing and tracking video assets, loading video assets into video editing software as needed, and performing minute editing tasks. If required, assistant editors may work on teams with several other assistants.

Working as an assistant video editor is a great way to gain field experience to start a career as a film editor or videographer eventually. In this role, you should be well-versed in video editing technology and software such as Adobe Premiere and know how to handle camera and audio equipment.

3. Broadcast technician

Average annual base salary (US): $68,000 [4]

Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in performing arts, communication, or a related field; video editing and production management skills; and broadcast certifications 

Job description: Broadcast technicians operate audio and visual equipment during a broadcast. As a broadcast technician, you are in control of the sound and video pictures that viewers are seeing. Broadcast technicians are also referred to as audio and video technicians or broadcast engineers.

To become a broadcast technician, you must know how to operate broadcast equipment and collaborate well with others, especially because many broadcasts are live. Some jobs may require you to pass a certification specific to broadcast engineering to prove that you know how to operate the technology in use.

4. Film editor

Average annual base salary (US): $77,000 [6]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in film studies, broadcasting, performing arts, communications, or a related subject; and knowledge of editing software. Certification proving this technical proficiency is desirable as well.

Job description: Film editors take film footage of performances or events and work with a team to edit the final product. In this role, you'll use editing software, technical skills, and creativity to tell an audience a compelling and entertaining story. You perform these tasks by using techniques such as rearranging sequences or adding visual effects and music, or overseeing the addition or editing of auditory features. It’s your job as the film editor to ensure that the final video meets the directors’ and producers’ expectations in tone and storytelling. 

To get a job as a film editor, you must be familiar with different film editing software. Popular video editing programs include Adobe Premiere, iMovie, Davinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro.

5. Television editor

Average annual base salary (US): $113,000 [7]

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a related field like cinematography may be preferred, or background in film and television production

Job description: Television editors use video footage gathered to film a television program and organize it to complete a finished product. In this role, you'll work alongside the director and show's creator to get compelling angles, shots, and takes before editing the program to create an entertaining story. A television editor performs many functions as a film editor, but their specialty is crafting video content for television rather than major motion pictures. As such, you may choose specific specialties or career paths related to the many different types of televised content, such as television news, reality TV, or live TV broadcasts, such as sporting events. 

You can also gain experience by working as a production assistant or getting an internship on the set of a film or television show. Television editors must know editing software to perform their daily duties and work well with a team.

6. Animator

Average annual base salary (US): $64,000 [8]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer graphics, computer science, graphic design, or a related major; portfolio with samples; and prior experience in the field

Job description: Animators create moving pictures or videos using digital software. These videos tell an animated story through moving artwork on-screen. Animators may start by working on paper and eventually use editing software to piece their story together to create either a commercial, video game, short film, television show, or feature film.

If you want to stand out from other candidates, put together a portfolio with examples of your work so employers can get a sense of your skill level and if you’re a good fit for the role.

7. Colorist

Average annual base salary (US): $91,000 [9]

Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in film production, film studies, or a related major; video editing software certifications

Job description: Colorists are responsible for altering digital and film videos and images. As a colorist, you'll work with a video editor or cinematographer to create the final product of a movie, video, or image by changing the color balance using video editing software. You may use programs like DaVinci Resolve, Adobe, or Final Cut Pro to achieve color correction or grading goals.

As a colorist, you must know film editing software to perform your daily tasks and collaborate well with others to produce a shared vision. Another vital skill to obtain is understanding color theory, which helps understand why a cinematographer or film director may want you to edit their film to look a specific way.

8. Creative video editor or video content creator

Average annual base salary (US): $76,000 [10]

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in photography, film, communication, or a related field; marketing internships

Job description: A creative video editor or a content creator produces short-form videos to share on social media. In this role, you'll film videos to market yourself or a product. Once you finish filming, you edit the video to fit specific time constraints so that it will perform well on social media platforms.

If you’re looking to become a creative video editor or content creator, you should have a background in film and photography. Having a robust foundation in SEO and marketing tactics is also helpful.

How to become a video editor

Before beginning your career as a video editor, you need to consider what employers will look for on your resume. Typically, employers look for video editing or a related degree field. Certifications can enhance your resume by showcasing your knowledge of relevant technology and software.

1. Consider a degree.

Some video editing jobs require you to have a bachelor’s degree in film production, communication, or a related major. Consider pursuing a bachelor’s degree that interests you and will give you the knowledge you need about video editing. Related video editing majors include photography, digital media studies, and journalism. 

Read more: Is a Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

2. Earn certifications.

Beyond pursuing a degree, some video editors expand their skills, obtain specializations, increase their value to potential employers, and keep abreast of the latest video editing trends and technical requirements through certifications and continuous learning. Earning video editing certifications may make your resume stand out from other applicants. These credentials show that you took the extra step to enhance your skills, especially in video editing software. Many programs, such as Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro, offer certifications you may earn directly from the company.

3. Build the essential skills for a video editing career

Regardless of your selected video editing career path, many video editors choose to develop a few general, overlapping skills to reach their full potential. These skills include technical proficiencies and workplace expertise. 

Technical skills

Video editing requires various software programs to process and manipulate video and audio to achieve the desired effect. While different organizations use different video editing software, popular software applications that many employers expect their video editors to be familiar with include Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects, Adobe Photoshop, Avid, and Apple Final Cut Pro.

Practical knowledge of HTML and AJAX can also prove helpful, as well as familiarity with specific AI tools, as AI becomes increasingly prevalent in the video editing industry. 

Workplace skills

Beyond technical proficiency, video editors are often very creative, capable of imagining and producing video content that achieves its desired effect (e.g., telling a story, selling a product). You'll need strong communication and teamwork skills to collaborate frequently with producers, directors, and similar industry professionals.

To become a video editor, you need to continue learning and building your skills. These skills involve familiarity with video editing software and other skills needed while working with others on the job. Examples include being communicative, organized, adaptable, and working well with a team of other creative individuals. 

Highly talented video editors also often exhibit a keen eye for detail as they review each element of their content to ensure accuracy and intention. 

Learn more with our free resources.

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