Caption Editor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the ever-evolving media landscape, the demand for proficient caption editors has never been greater.

As technology advances and accessibility becomes paramount, the need for skilled individuals who can create, enhance, and ensure the accuracy of our media captions grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a caption editor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of caption editing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable caption editor job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Caption Editor Duties and Responsibilities

Caption Editors play a critical role in making video content accessible to people who are hard of hearing or deaf, people who speak different languages, and for instances where audio can’t be played.

They are responsible for transcribing, syncing and editing video captions or subtitles accurately, providing essential information about dialogues, music, and sounds.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Transcribing all spoken dialogue and significant audio cues from a video into written text
• Synchronizing the transcribed text with the timing of the video
• Editing captions for accuracy, readability, and adherence to captioning standards and guidelines
• Reviewing and correcting errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, and syntax
• Formatting captions or subtitles to ensure they are clear and easy to read
• Ensuring captions convey the meaning and tone of the spoken dialogue
• Using specialized software to embed captions into the video or to produce subtitle files
• Collaborating with production team to understand and match the style and theme of the video content
• Maintaining confidentiality and adhering to copyright laws

 

Caption Editor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Caption Editor to join our team.

You will be responsible for creating, editing and synchronizing text that matches the audio in our media content.

The Caption Editor’s responsibilities include ensuring accurate spellings, correct grammar, and proper synchronization.

They should also be adept at understanding different accents and dialects.

Our ideal candidate is someone who has a keen eye for detail, excellent language skills, and is familiar with various caption editing tools.

 

Responsibilities

• Create, edit and sync captions to match the audio in video content
• Ensure accurate spelling, punctuation, and grammar in all captions
• Review scripts and raw video to create accurate captions
• Ensure captions are readable and properly timed for viewer comprehension
• Work closely with the production team to meet deadlines
• Adapt to different content styles and tones
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements for closed captioning
• Proofread and correct errors in existing captions

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Caption Editor or similar role
• Proficiency with caption editing software and tools
• Excellent command of the English language, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation
• Strong attention to detail and ability to meet strict deadlines
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Understanding of FCC captioning regulations preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent; Bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or related field is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Caption Editor
• Work Environment: This job typically involves working in a quiet, office setting, but remote work may also be possible depending on the employer. Some weekend or evening work might be required to meet deadlines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Content Manager or Production Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• 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 at our company. 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: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Caption Editor Do?

Caption Editors primarily work for media companies such as television networks, film studios, and online video platforms.

They can also work on a freelance basis or for third-party captioning companies.

Their main responsibility is to create, edit, and synchronize captions for various forms of media.

This includes television shows, movies, online videos, and sometimes even live events.

They carefully review and transcribe the dialogue, background noises, and other audible elements into written form, ensuring the accuracy of the content.

The captions are timed to match the corresponding audio and visual elements.

In addition to transcribing dialogue, Caption Editors also provide descriptions of non-verbal elements that are crucial for understanding the context, such as laughter, music, or sound effects.

Their work plays a significant role in making media content accessible for the deaf and hard of hearing community.

Additionally, their captions aid viewers in noisy environments or those who are learning the language in which the content is produced.

Caption Editors often have to work under tight deadlines and are required to have excellent attention to detail, strong linguistic skills, and a good understanding of the context of the content they are working on.

 

Caption Editor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient caption editor must possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, including:

• Excellent command of the English language, grammar, and punctuation for precise transcription and captioning.
• Ability to accurately transcribe dialogues and background sounds to ensure clear understanding for hearing-impaired viewers.
• Strong typing skills to maintain a rapid transcription pace that keeps up with real-time broadcasts.
• Proficiency with various captioning software and transcription tools to ensure high-quality output.
• Attention to detail to catch and correct errors in captions or transcripts, ensuring accuracy and comprehensibility.
• Good time management skills to prioritize workloads and meet strict deadlines.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a team to ensure quality and consistency across all projects.
• Understanding of FCC guidelines and regulations for closed captioning to ensure all captions meet standard requirements.
• Excellent listening skills to accurately interpret and transcribe a variety of accents and dialects.
• Adaptability to handle various content types, from news broadcasts to entertainment shows, with appropriate captioning style and tone.

 

Caption Editor Experience Requirements

Entry-level Caption Editors may possess around 1 to 2 years of experience, primarily acquired through internships, part-time roles, or voluntary work in roles such as Transcriptionist, Copy Editor, or Proofreader.

These professionals often start their career by gaining on-the-job experience in relevant roles that require meticulous attention to detail and a strong command of language, grammar, and punctuation.

Candidates who have more than 3 years of experience have typically honed their skills in roles such as Caption Writer, Subtitle Editor, or Content Editor.

During this period, they often acquire a deeper understanding of the nuances of time-coding, caption synchronization, and the usage of captioning software.

Professionals with more than 5 years of experience may have additional experience in supervisory or team lead roles, managing and overseeing the quality of work produced by a team of captioners.

They are adept in ensuring content accessibility standards and might be prepared for a managerial position in the field of caption editing.

Moreover, depending on the industry, some roles may require specialized knowledge or experience in a specific subject matter, such as legal, medical, or technical terminology.

 

Caption Editor Education and Training Requirements

Caption Editors, also known as closed captioning editors, typically require a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.

They need to have a high level of proficiency in the English language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Some positions may require proficiency in another language or specialized knowledge in a particular field, such as law or medicine, to accurately caption specific content.

Caption Editors also need strong typing and listening skills, and an ability to accurately transcribe audio in real-time.

There are several courses and certifications available for those interested in pursuing a career in closed captioning, including certifications in stenography and transcription.

Experience in transcription work, proofreading, or editing can also be beneficial.

Continued education and training in evolving technologies and software used in captioning can be beneficial as the field continues to grow and evolve.

 

Caption Editor Salary Expectations

A Caption Editor can expect to earn an average salary of $47,848 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate depending on factors such as professional experience, geographical location, and the specific industry in which they are employed.

 

Caption Editor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Caption Editor need?

Caption Editors should have strong linguistic skills, including a keen understanding of grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

They must also have strong typing skills and the ability to work quickly and accurately under pressure.

Familiarity with multiple languages and cultures can be an advantage in this role, as can an understanding of the deaf and hard of hearing community.

 

Do Caption Editors need a degree?

While a degree is not necessarily required for a Caption Editor, many employers prefer candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.

Some companies also prefer candidates with previous experience in captioning or subtitling.

 

What should you look for in a Caption Editor resume?

A strong Caption Editor resume should demonstrate the candidate’s proficiency in language and grammar, as well as their ability to work quickly and accurately under tight deadlines.

Experience with transcription services or closed-captioning software is a big plus.

Look also for any evidence of problem-solving abilities, as this is often required in matching text to on-screen visuals.

 

What qualities make a good Caption Editor?

A good Caption Editor is detail-oriented and has a strong command of the language.

They have the ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines without compromising on accuracy.

Good Caption Editors also have excellent research skills, which can come in handy when dealing with complex or technical terminology.

They should also be familiar with different captioning styles and standards.

 

What are the daily duties of a Caption Editor?

A Caption Editor’s daily duties include transcribing dialogues, ensuring accuracy of captions, proofreading and editing captions, synchronizing captions with the video, and ensuring compliance with various regulations and standards.

They may also need to collaborate with other members of the production team to ensure the quality and accuracy of the final product.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

We’ve just uncovered the true nature of a caption editor‘s role.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about adding text to visuals.

It’s about shaping the narrative and enhancing the viewer’s experience, one caption at a time.

Armed with our comprehensive caption editor job description template and real-life illustrations, you’re ready to step into action.

But why stop now?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ideal guide to crafting laser-focused listings or honing your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every caption contributes to a larger story.

Let’s create those narratives. Together.

How to Become a Caption Editor (Complete Guide)

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