Film Editor

Description: Film and video editors edit soundtracks, film, and video for the motion picture, cable, and broadcast television industries. They collaborate with directors, cinematographers, and sound designers during the post-production stage.

Knowledge Required: Fine arts, film, literature, computers, rhythm, pacing

Skills: Employers usually seek applicants with a good eye, imagination, and creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of editing software.

Career Path: Many universities, community colleges, and trade schools offer degrees and courses in post-production. While in school, it is important to build a demo reel to help with future employment. After graduation, it is important to get a foot in the door through internships and entry-level film jobs.

Best Cities for this job: Large metropolitan areas with a concentration of entertainment such as Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, and San Diego

Median Annual Income: National: $63,680 CA: $83,850

Future Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts employment of editors to grow 11 percent over the 2008–18 decade.

From the field: “Usually the end product is a culmination of the director's ideas, and my ideas, and the writer's ideas.” - Maryann Brandon, Editor

Associated Curriculum: Digital Media Arts: Introduction to Visual arts and Digital Design, Unit 3