Closed Captioner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital communication, the importance of closed captioners has never been more pronounced.

As our world becomes more inclusive and accessible, the demand for skilled individuals who can create, refine, and provide critical text interpretation for audio-visual content continues to grow.

But what does it really mean to be a closed captioner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or just curious about the intricacies of closed captioning,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a customizable closed captioner job description template, created for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Closed Captioner Duties and Responsibilities

Closed Captioners provide essential services to the deaf and hard of hearing community by converting spoken language in visual media into written captions.

They work with a range of multimedia content such as TV shows, movies, and online videos.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Closed Captioner may include:

• Watching and listening to video content to transcribe spoken dialogue
• Adding descriptions of important non-dialogue audio, such as music or sound effects, into the captions
• Ensuring captions are synchronized with the audio-visual content
• Proofreading captions for spelling, grammar, and clarity
• Using specialized software to create and edit captions
• Working with a team of video editors and producers to ensure caption accuracy and timing
• Adhering to specific style guides and captioning rules
• Being aware of cultural nuances, idioms, and slang to accurately convey meaning
• Meeting tight deadlines for caption delivery

 

Closed Captioner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Closed Captioner to provide accurate and timely captions for our video content.

The Closed Captioner’s responsibilities will include transcribing audio content to text, ensuring accurate spelling and grammar, and synchronizing the captions with the audiovisual content.

Our ideal candidate has excellent listening skills, a strong command of the English language, and can accurately interpret and transcribe different accents and dialects.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribe audio content of our video materials into written text.
• Proofread and correct transcribed text for spelling and grammatical errors.
• Coordinate the timing and placement of captions to match the audiovisual content.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable captioning standards and regulations.
• Make adjustments to captions based on feedback and quality control checks.
• Work closely with the production team to ensure the timely delivery of captions.
• Maintain confidentiality of all video content and information.

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Closed Captioner or similar role is preferred.
• Excellent listening skills and strong command of the English language.
• Ability to accurately interpret and transcribe different accents and dialects.
• Detail-oriented with strong spelling and grammar skills.
• Experience with closed captioning software and tools.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines without compromising on quality.
• A degree in English, Communications, or a related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Closed Captioner
• Work Environment: This is a remote position, requiring a quiet workspace and a strong, reliable internet connection.
• Reporting Structure: Reports 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 $60,000 maximum
• Location: 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 Closed Captioner Do?

Closed Captioners, also known as caption writers, primarily work in the broadcasting industry, but they may also find jobs with online streaming services, educational institutions, and companies that produce videos.

Their main task is to provide written transcripts of audio content in television shows, movies, video games, and online videos.

These captions not only transcribe dialogue, but also describe relevant non-dialogue sounds such as music, sound effects, and other audio cues that could be important to understanding the narrative.

Closed Captioners often work live, transcribing content in real-time for news broadcasts, live shows, or sports events.

This requires fast and accurate typing skills, a good understanding of the language, and exceptional listening skills.

They may also work with prerecorded material, where they have more time to ensure accuracy and adherence to specific style guides.

This can involve creating time-coded scripts that synchronize the captions with the audio.

Closed Captioners play a crucial role in making media content accessible to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, as well as individuals who may watch videos in noisy or sound-sensitive environments.

They may also assist in translating and localizing content for foreign audiences.

 

Closed Captioner Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Closed Captioner should possess skills and qualifications that are in line with the job role, such as:

• Excellent English language skills to clearly and accurately transcribe spoken words, sound effects, and music into written text.
• Speed and accuracy in typing to capture and transcribe dialogue in real time, often at a speed of over 200 words per minute.
• Attention to detail to ensure the correct spelling of complex words or names, and accurately capture the tone and context of the conversation.
• Good listening skills to understand and decipher overlapping conversations, accents, and muffled or distorted audio.
• Understanding of grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure to create clear and readable captions.
• Technical skills to use specialized captioning software and equipment effectively.
• Knowledge of FCC captioning guidelines and regulations to ensure compliance.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines without compromising the quality of captions.
• Proficiency in a second language can be an added advantage for translating foreign language content.
• Understanding of the needs and requirements of Deaf and Hard of Hearing viewers to provide accessible and inclusive content.

 

Closed Captioner Experience Requirements

Closed Captioners generally require at least 1 to 2 years of experience in transcription, captioning, or other similar fields.

Many Closed Captioners begin their careers in roles such as a Transcriptionist or Proofreader, where they can gain valuable skills in typing, listening, and quality control.

Candidates may also gain experience through internships, freelance work, or part-time roles in media companies, broadcasting stations, or online platforms that utilize captioning services.

Such practical experience allows candidates to develop their proficiency in captioning software, audiovisual content comprehension, and high-speed typing.

For positions demanding higher proficiency, such as live closed captioning or captioning for complex or technical content, employers might require candidates to have more than 3 years of relevant experience.

These candidates often have a broader range of skills including stenography, real-time captioning, and familiarity with technical terminologies in fields like law, medicine, or technology.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some managerial experience, and may have supervised a team of Closed Captioners.

They may be ready for a supervisory role or a role involved in training and mentoring newcomers in the field.

In all cases, Closed Captioners need to have excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing skills, and a good command over the language in which they are captioning.

They should also have extensive knowledge of the guidelines and standards for closed captioning.

 

Closed Captioner Education and Training Requirements

Closed Captioners usually have at least a high school diploma, however, an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as English, communications, or journalism is often preferred.

They must possess strong grammar, punctuation, and spelling skills, and have a keen understanding of the English language.

Knowledge of other languages may also be beneficial for certain roles.

While there are no specific degree programs for closed captioning, there are training programs and courses available that provide a comprehensive understanding of the role, which includes real-time captioning, broadcast captioning, and offline captioning.

Closed Captioners also require an exceptional typing speed (around 200-300 words per minute), as accuracy and speed are crucial for this role.

Candidates might need to pass a typing speed test.

Certification is not always necessary but can enhance job prospects.

The National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) offers a Certified Broadcast Captioner (CBC) credential.

To earn this certification, captioners must pass a written knowledge test and a skills test.

Continuing education and staying updated with evolving technology in the field is also important, as technology plays a significant role in the work of a closed captioner.

Prior experience in transcription or other related fields can be beneficial but is not mandatory.

 

Closed Captioner Salary Expectations

A Closed Captioner earns an average salary of $60,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can vary based on factors such as experience, the complexity of the work, and the region in which they work.

Some experienced professionals in this field can earn up to $80,000 or more per year.

 

Closed Captioner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Closed Captioner need?

Closed Captioners should possess excellent listening skills and be able to accurately transcribe spoken dialogue in real time.

They must have proficient typing skills and good command of the language in which they will be providing captions.

Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task are also crucial as they need to follow the dialogue, sound effects, and music while typing.

 

Do Closed Captioners need a degree?

While a degree is not required, some Closed Captioners may have a background in transcription or in the language in which they are captioning.

Most companies that hire Closed Captioners will provide on-the-job training, but previous transcription experience can be advantageous.

Understanding of broadcasting may also be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Closed Captioner resume?

Look for any experience in transcription or typing roles.

Proficiency in multiple languages can be beneficial for closed captioning in different languages.

Also, check for any technical skills related to closed captioning software or equipment.

Good attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines are also important qualities to look for.

 

What qualities make a good Closed Captioner?

A good Closed Captioner should have excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing skills, and a good understanding of grammar and punctuation.

They should be able to work under pressure and deliver accurate results in real time.

Good Closed Captioners also need to be adaptable as they may need to caption a wide variety of content, from news broadcasts to live events, movies, and TV shows.

 

Is it challenging to hire Closed Captioners?

Finding qualified Closed Captioners can be challenging as the job requires specialized skills and the ability to work under pressure.

As it’s a niche field, there might be fewer candidates with the required experience and skills.

Therefore, it’s crucial to offer competitive compensation and invest in training to attract and retain the best Closed Captioners.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the true essence of being a closed captioner.

Surprised?

It’s not just about transcribing words.

It’s about bridging the communication gap, one caption at a time.

With our practical closed captioner job description template and real-world examples, you’re fully equipped to take the next step.

But, why limit yourself?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for crafting accurate job listings or refining your resume to the utmost precision.

Remember:

Each caption you create contributes to the larger narrative.

Let’s create an inclusive world. Together.

How to Become a Closed Captioner (Complete Guide)

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