Film and Video Editors
Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate moving images that entertain or inform an audience.
Is film and video editors a good career?
It scores 19/100 and ranks #330 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays above the U.S. median wage ($75,420)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
What film and video editors earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. film and video editors earn between $52,720 and $105,310 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Strongest employment concentration
Live film and video editors jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- None
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow as fast as average through 2034.
Education
Film and video editors and camera operators typically need a bachelor’s degree to enter the occupation. The degree is often in film, broadcasting, or a related fine and performing arts or communications field. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training.
Film and video editors and camera operators must have an understanding of digital cameras and editing software because both are now used on film sets.
Training
Employers may offer new employees training in the type of specialized editing software those employers use. Most editors eventually specialize in one type of software, but beginners should be familiar with as many types as possible.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Editors may demonstrate competence in various types of editing software by earning certification, which is generally offered by software vendors. Certification requires passing a comprehensive exam, and candidates can prepare for the exam on their own, through online tutorials, or through classroom instruction.
Advancement
Experienced film and video editors and camera operators with creativity and leadership skills can advance to overseeing their own projects.
Important qualities
Communication skills. Film and video editors and camera operators must communicate with other members of a production team, including producers and directors, to ensure that the project goes smoothly.
Computer skills. Film and video editors must use sophisticated editing software.
Creativity. Film and video editors and camera operators should be able to imagine what the result of their filming or editing will look like to an audience.
Detail oriented. Editors look at every frame of film and decide what should be kept or cut in order to maintain the best content.
Hand–eye coordination. Camera operators need to be able to move about the action while holding a camera steady.
Physical stamina. Camera operators may need to carry heavy equipment for long periods, particularly when they are filming on location.
Visual skills. Film and video editors and camera operators must see clearly what they are filming or editing in the postproduction process.
Related occupations
How much do film and video editors make?
The national median wage is $75,420 a year, with the middle half earning between $52,720 and $105,310 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is film and video editors a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 19 of 100 and ranks #330 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +4.0% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a film and video editor?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree.
Where do film and video editors earn the most?
Among states, New York pays the highest median ($103,440). Local pay for every state and metro is below.