Audio Description Writer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving era of multimedia, the spotlight on Audio Description Writers has never been brighter.

As our media experience expands, the demand for skillful individuals who can enhance, shape, and enrich our auditory narrative landscape escalates.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Audio Description Writer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the profile of an ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of audio description writing,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Audio Description Writer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Audio Description Writer Duties and Responsibilities

Audio Description Writers play a crucial role in making visual media, such as films and television, accessible to visually impaired individuals.

They describe essential visual elements of a scene, making the media more inclusive.

Here are some of the duties and responsibilities of an Audio Description Writer:

• Watch and thoroughly understand the content to be described
• Create a detailed script that describes essential visual elements such as actions, gestures, clothing, facial expressions, settings, and scene changes
• Ensure the script adheres to the principles of Descriptive Video Service (DVS)
• Work with editors and producers to ensure the descriptions fit into the natural pauses in the dialogue
• Revise scripts based on feedback from editors, producers, and audience
• Ensure descriptions maintain the original intent, tone, and style of the content
• Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in audio description and accessibility standards
• Work closely with voice-over artists to ensure they understand the nuances of the script
• Ensure that the final product meets the high standards of accuracy, timing, and relevance

 

Audio Description Writer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented Audio Description Writer to join our team.

The ideal candidate will have a passion for storytelling and a keen ear for detail.

The Audio Description Writer will be responsible for writing clear and engaging audio descriptions for various multimedia content, including films, television shows, and digital media, to make it accessible for visually impaired audiences.

 

Responsibilities

• Reviewing and thoroughly understanding the content that needs audio descriptions
• Writing clear, concise, and creative descriptions of visual elements without interrupting the original audio
• Ensuring that the descriptions accurately depict the visual content
• Collaborating with the production team to ensure the proper implementation of audio descriptions
• Remaining up-to-date with the latest industry trends and advancements in audio description technology
• Adhering to strict deadlines and delivering quality work on schedule
• Maintaining a library of common descriptions for consistency across projects

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Audio Description Writer or similar role in multimedia production
• Excellent writing skills with an emphasis on clarity, brevity, and creativity
• Strong listening skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work quickly and accurately under tight deadlines
• Strong understanding of the needs and preferences of visually impaired audiences
• A degree in Communications, English, Journalism, or related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Audio Description Writer
• Work Environment: This role is primarily remote with occasional in-office meetings. Some evening and weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Production or Content Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, market standards, and business considerations.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Interested candidates are requested to submit their resume along with a cover letter stating their qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Audio Description Writer Do?

Audio Description Writers primarily work in the media and entertainment industry, providing a crucial service for visually impaired audiences.

They create descriptive narrations to enable visually impaired individuals to follow along with television shows, movies, live performances, and other visual media.

The descriptions, which are carefully timed to fit in the gaps between the dialogue, give details about significant visual elements such as characters’ actions, expressions, and settings.

Audio Description Writers work closely with a team of voice actors, sound engineers, and directors to ensure their scripts are adequately expressed and that they enhance rather than detract from the original work.

They may also liaise with visually impaired consultants to ensure their descriptions are effective and useful.

Their role also involves doing research, especially for productions that involve complex or specialized topics, to ensure their descriptions are accurate and meaningful.

They may also update or modify their scripts based on feedback or changes in the production.

Above all, an Audio Description Writer helps make visual media accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of visual ability.

 

Audio Description Writer Qualifications and Skills

An Audio Description Writer is a specialist who provides a verbal version of visuals for those with visual impairments.

The skills and qualifications required for this role are as follows:

• Strong narrative skills to effectively and efficiently describe the key visual elements without interfering with the program’s audio.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to convey visual content in a clear, concise and engaging manner.
• Deep understanding of television, film, and theater production to better interpret and describe the visual elements of a scene.
• Detail-oriented and observant to accurately describe the environment, characters, costumes, and actions in the scene.
• Creativity and the ability to think quickly to adapt the narration to the pace and tone of the program.
• Understanding of the specific needs and preferences of the audience who will use the audio descriptions.
• Ability to work under strict deadlines and deliver high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of the specific guidelines and standards for audio description in various media platforms.

 

Audio Description Writer Experience Requirements

To become an Audio Description Writer, individuals generally start with a background in writing, broadcasting, or a related field.

Degree programs in English, Communications, or Journalism can provide relevant foundational knowledge.

Entry-level candidates often have 1 to 2 years of experience in a related field.

This experience can be gained through internships or part-time roles that require script writing or creative storytelling, such as positions in radio broadcasting or podcast production.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have often honed their skills in creating descriptive, concise, and engaging audio content.

These individuals may have worked in roles such as Script Writer, Broadcast Journalist, or Audio Producer.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience in the field often bring additional skills to the table, such as experience with specific audio description software and tools, and may have worked on larger projects or with high-profile clients.

This level of experience may qualify them for leadership positions within the team.

Extensive knowledge of the subject matter is vital in this role.

It’s also essential to have a strong understanding of the unique requirements of writing for audio description, such as the need to convey visual information in a clear, concise manner that complements the primary audio content.

 

Audio Description Writer Education and Training Requirements

Audio Description Writers typically have a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, media studies, creative writing or a related field.

They also need strong writing skills, an understanding of audio-visual media, and a keen sense of observation to accurately and creatively describe scenes, actions, and non-dialogue elements in audio and video content for visually impaired audiences.

Some positions, particularly those in specialized fields such as theater or film, may require Audio Description Writers with a master’s degree or specific courses in audio-visual translation, creative writing, or screenwriting.

Some individuals may also pursue a certification in audio description writing from organizations like the American Council of the Blind or the Audio Description Project.

In addition to formal education, practical experience such as internships or freelance work can greatly enhance an Audio Description Writer’s skills and employability.

This role requires continuous learning and keeping up-to-date with advancements in technology related to audio description software and tools.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification can also demonstrate a candidate’s dedication to the profession and their ability to handle more complex audio description projects.

 

Audio Description Writer Salary Expectations

An Audio Description Writer can expect to earn an average salary of $51,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary based on factors such as years of experience, level of expertise, the complexity of the project, and the region in which they are employed.

 

Audio Description Writer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Audio Description Writer need?

An Audio Description Writer needs excellent listening and writing skills to provide precise and concise descriptions of visual elements in a film, TV show, or theater performance.

They should also have a good understanding of the medium they’re working with, whether it’s film, TV, or theater.

Creativity and imagination are important as they need to paint a vivid picture with words.

Good research skills are also crucial for fact-checking and ensuring accuracy in their descriptions.

 

Do Audio Description Writers need a degree?

While a degree is not strictly necessary, many Audio Description Writers have a background in English, Journalism, or a related field.

Some may also have training in screenwriting or playwriting.

There are also specialized courses and certifications available for audio description.

Ultimately, the most important thing is having the requisite skills and understanding of the role.

 

What should you look for in an Audio Description Writer resume?

Look for experience in writing and storytelling, as well as any background in theater, film, or television.

Any experience with scriptwriting, screenwriting, or playwriting could be beneficial.

Also, check for any certifications or training in audio description.

A good Audio Description Writer should also have strong research skills, so any evidence of this on their resume would be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Audio Description Writer?

A good Audio Description Writer should have a keen attention to detail, as they need to accurately describe visual elements that are crucial to the story.

They should also be creative and imaginative, able to convey these descriptions in a way that enhances the viewer’s experience.

Being able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines is also important.

Finally, a strong understanding of storytelling and narrative structure can help an Audio Description Writer create descriptions that fit seamlessly into the story.

 

Is it difficult to hire Audio Description Writers?

Hiring Audio Description Writers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the work.

It requires a unique combination of skills, including writing, storytelling, and an understanding of visual media.

Therefore, finding candidates with the right experience and skill set can be difficult.

However, there are training programs and certifications available that can help individuals develop these skills.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve unraveled the magic behind what it means to be an audio description writer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about crafting scripts.

It’s about painting vivid pictures with words, one description at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive audio description writer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your journey.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to finely-sculpted job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Each description is a stroke in the broader canvas.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.

How to Become an Audio Description Writer (Complete Guide)

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