When you need to hire a qualified person for the film industry, you should focus on writing a strong video editor job description. In their work, video editors put filmed scenes together using raw footage from cameras. They work with the director of a project to create a cohesive narrative based on the goals of the story.
A bachelor’s degree in film or communications is usually required for people in this job. Video editors must also be familiar with the common types of video editing software to be successful. Some companies look for candidates who have official certifications in video editing software.
Skilled video editors have natural creativity. It’s also important for a video editor to have an excellent attention to detail. You can see more information about this job in the video editor job description template below.
Video Editor Job Summary
Are you a natural storyteller looking for your next piece of inspiration in film or video work? Our film production company is looking for innovative and experienced video editors to join our editing department. The perfect person for this job is skilled in the craft of filmmaking and understands all of the components of video production, including sound, music, visuals and point of view. In this role, you would be responsible for piecing together raw footage from the cinematographer and sound recorder to create a unique and exciting story. If you are ready to show your true editing talent to the world, our company needs you today.
Job Responsibilities
- Splice raw film footage together from various sources and shoots, and combine it with other scenes to create a cohesive story
- Evaluate edited footage to make sure it matches the story from the script and meets the narrative agenda of the producer and director of the film
- Edit footage into timelines and cut time out of certain shots to create a more impactful story for the audience
- Combine visual footage with audio sound effects, dialogue, ambient sound and a musical soundtrack to create more drama in the story
- Use computer editing software programs, video switching devices, digital video effects programs and other tools to piece together film components
- Ensure all editing cuts, splices, changes and additions appear seamless and natural and help the story flow more effectively in the finished product
- Create sound effects by recording specific audio clips or choose audio effects from a database of sounds to include in the final film
- Discuss project timeline, narrative structure, story goals and more with the director and any producers as the project is edited
Job Skills & Qualifications
Reqiured:
- Bachelor’s degree in film, video production or communications
- Experience working with video editing software
- Submission of a video editing reel of your best work
- Solid attention to detail
Preferred:
- Certification in Adobe Premiere
- Experience working on a film set
Don’t underestimate the influence of a well-written job description. When looking for the next video editor to synchronize your media productions, convince quality candidates to apply by composing your video editor job description with them in mind. First, show off your company by describing the benefits you offer and the unique environment you’ve created. Then, demonstrate to potential video editors their distinct role within the company by describing upcoming projects they’ll collaborate on and the end goals of those projects. Show an editor’s connection to the company’s wider aim, and you are sure to attract quality candidates who see beyond the next project to the final destination. When formatting the job responsibilities section of the video editor job description, think about it as a reference of the most significant contributions an editor makes. Use bullet points to create an easy-to-read list and start each with a strong verb to capture the clear actions you expect of a video editor. Keep in mind that although candidates should be able to quickly skim the core functions, this section is the most extensive of the job description, so plan it carefully with adequate thought.
Some video editor job responsibilities you may include are the following:
Video Editor Job Specifications
The skills and qualifications the video editor job description outlines are just as important as the list of job responsibilities. A similar approach is appropriate for both because your goal is introducing the specifications and responsibilities as if you’re writing directly to the candidate you hope to attract. The more specific your lists are, the greater chance you have of reaching that candidate.
When you begin drafting the video editor job description, consider your ideal applicant. What is his or her education level? What prior experience does that person have? If you’re not sure of the answers to these questions, talk to your production staff. What qualities do they find most helpful when working with editors to put the finishing touches on a film? Use their input to draft the specifications the job description presents, and create an accurate portrait of the video editor who’ll be an excellent addition to your team.
Here are some examples to consider including in the video editor job specifications:
Master’s degree in film production or a bachelor’s degree with 5+ years of experience as a video editor Strong collaborative skills for consulting with producers and directors on each project and editing projects according to their specifications Working knowledge of oral, written and visual media in addition to competency in production processes, dissemination techniques and quality standards in media production Proven expertise in video creation and editing software, including Adobe Director, Apple DVD Studio Pro or Apple Final Cut Pro