Career Definition for a TV Editor
TV editors transform raw footage filmed on the set of a television show into a polished final product for broadcast. Using computer technology, TV editors mix video footage with music, sound effects, and audio and special effects. They are responsible for the majority of the post-production process, and their editorial decisions determine how the story is told, ultimately molding the audience's experience. TV editors may work with footage for scripted TV shows, television documentaries, news programs, music videos, professional training videos, or advertisements. Most editors are employees of the affiliate stations of national networks, advertising agencies, large cable and television networks, or independent television stations.
| Education | No requirements, but usually hold a 4-year degree |
| Job Skills | Good computer and video editing skills, able to adapt to technology, creative, resourceful, and good communication skills |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $62,680 (for film and video editors) |
| Job Growth (2021-2031)* | 12% (for film and video editors) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Required
There are no specific education requirements for a job as a TV editor. Many TV editors hold media, film, information technology or art degrees from 4-year colleges and universities, while others acquire skills solely from on-the-job training. In general, TV editors enter the industry at a lower level, often as camera operators or assistants, and gradually develop their own skills by observing professionals.
Required Skills
The advent of digital technology has rendered the traditional method of cutting film strips manually obsolete. Nowadays, all film and video editors must have computer-savvy and extensive knowledge of video editing software. Moreover, they must be able to adapt to rapidly changing technology. Successful TV editors also need a vivid imagination, artistic eye, and a creative mindset. Oftentimes raw footage is of poor quality but necessary to the final product, and TV editors must be resourceful enough to rescue it. A solid understanding of storytelling techniques, good communication skills, and the ability to work well under deadlines are also necessities.
Salary Information and Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, www.bls.gov), the median annual salary of film and video editors was $62,680 in 2021. Those working in the motion picture and video industry earned a median wage of $82,240 in 2021. Competition for positions was fierce due to the large pool of job applicants. Employment of film and video editors was expected to grow at a rate of 12% from 2021-2031, which was higher than the national average.
Alternate Career Options
Similar careers to a TV editor include:
Broadcast Technician
A broadcast technician is responsible for operating and maintaining the technical equipment used for transmitting television or radio signals. Depending on the size of the station they work for, broadcast technicians may also have some equipment set-up and video editing duties. This job requires an associate's degree; it's helpful for broadcast technicians to have completed classes in math, science, video editing, and production management. On-the-job and on-going training are common. Voluntary industry certification is available. According to the BLS, the number of jobs for broadcast technicians is expected to increase by 10% from 2021-2031. The BLS also reported that broadcast technicians earned median pay of $48,790 in 2021, with higher pay reported in larger markets.
Reporter
Reporters gather and synthesize information on a specific topic through research, interviews, and observation. They report their story through media outlets like television, radio, print, or online. They usually have a bachelor's degree in journalism or a closely related field; they have also typically worked for several years on their college paper, radio station, or television station. The BLS reports that employment of reporters and correspondents is predicted to decline by 9% from 2021-2031, attributable in part to the decrease in ad sales and consolidation among major media players. Reporters with experience are expected to have better job prospects. Reporters and correspondents earned a median salary of $48,370 in 2021.
