Video Editor Job Description Template

Use this Video Editor job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a talented Video Editor to assemble recorded footage into a finished project that matches director’s vision and is suitable for broadcasting.

Ultimately, as a Film and Video Editor, you should be able to bring sight and sound together in order to tell a cohesive story

Responsibilities

  • Manipulate and edit film pieces in a way that is invisible to the audience
  • Take a brief to grasp production team’s needs and specifications
  • Review shooting script and raw material to create a shot decision list based on scenes’ value and contribution to continuity
  • Trim footage segments and put together the sequence of the film
  • Input music, dialogues, graphics and effects
  • Create rough and final cuts
  • Ensure logical sequencing and smooth running
  • Consult with stakeholders from production to post-production process
  • Continuously discover and implement new editing technologies and industry’s best practices to maximize efficiency.

Requirements

  • Proven work experience as a Video Editor
  • Solid experience with digital technology and editing software packages (e.g. Avid Media Composer, Lightworks, Premiere, After Effects and Final Cut)
  • Demonstrable video editing ability with a strong portfolio
  • Thorough knowledge of timing, motivation and continuity
  • Familiarity with special effects, 3D and compositing
  • Creative mind and storytelling skills
  • BS degree in film studies, cinematography or related field

What does Video Editor do?

A video editor's day-to-day activities can vary depending on the specific project they are working on, but here are some common tasks they typically perform:

  1. Review and organize footage: The video editor spends time reviewing and organizing the raw footage that has been captured or provided for the project. They carefully select the best shots and categorize them accordingly.

  2. Editing: Based on the project requirements or the client's instructions, the video editor begins the process of editing the footage. They cut, rearrange, and trim the clips to create a cohesive story or narrative.

  3. Enhancing visuals: Video editors work on enhancing the visual appeal of the footage. This can involve adjusting color, brightness, contrast, and saturation to ensure a consistent look and feel.

  4. Applying transitions and effects: To make the video visually engaging, a video editor may add transitions between shots, such as fades, wipes, or dissolves. They may also apply effects like text overlays, graphics, or motion graphics to enhance the overall visual experience.

  5. Sound editing: Apart from visuals, a video editor is responsible for audio editing. They clean up the background noise, adjust the volume levels, add or remove sound effects, and synchronize sound with visuals.

  6. Music selection: If the project requires it, a video editor may select and add appropriate background music or soundtracks that match the theme or mood of the video.

  7. Collaboration and feedback: Throughout the editing process, video editors often collaborate with other team members, such as directors, producers, or cinematographers. They incorporate feedback and make necessary adjustments to meet the project's objectives.

  8. Exporting and delivering the final product: Once the editing is complete, the video editor exports the final video in the desired format, resolution, and aspect ratio. They may also compress the video to meet specific file size requirements. The editor then ensures the final product is delivered to the client or appropriate distribution channels.

  9. Staying updated: Video editing techniques and software tools are constantly evolving. A video editor strives to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and industry standards to deliver high-quality work.

Overall, a video editor's primary goal is to transform raw footage into a well-crafted, visually appealing, and cohesive video that effectively communicates the desired message or story.