Closed Captioning Reporter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of accessibility, the demand for Closed Captioning Reporters has never been higher.

As multimedia content continues to expand, so does the need for individuals who can make it accessible to all, ensuring that no dialogue or important information is lost in translation.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Closed Captioning Reporter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the profile of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes process of closed captioning,

You’ve found the right resource.

Today, we present a customizable Closed Captioning Reporter job description template, created for easy use on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Closed Captioning Reporter Duties and Responsibilities

Closed Captioning Reporters, also known as stenographers, play an essential role in making media content accessible to the hearing impaired.

They use specialized equipment to provide real-time transcription of audio content into written form, also known as closed captions.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Listen carefully to audio content and transcribe it into written text
• Use stenotype machines or voice captioning software to provide real-time transcription
• Review transcriptions for accuracy and correct any errors
• Edit captions to ensure they match the pacing of the audio and fit within the screen space
• Work with producers and directors to understand the context and nuances of the content
• Follow specific formatting guidelines for different types of media content
• Provide written transcriptions for pre-recorded content
• Research terminologies and names to ensure accurate spelling
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines for sensitive content

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Closed Captioning Reporter to transcribe spoken words and sounds in various forms of media.

You will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy, completeness and synchronization of the captions with the video content.

The ideal candidate has excellent listening and fast typing skills, a keen attention to detail, and a deep understanding of language nuances and cultural references.

Ultimately, the role of a Closed Captioning Reporter is to provide accurate and timely closed captions that enhance the viewer’s experience and make the content accessible to a broader audience.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribe spoken words and sounds in real-time or from recorded video
• Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and synchronization of captions with video content
• Review and correct errors in captions, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation
• Understand and accurately represent context, tone, and nuances
• Keep up with fast-paced dialogue and action scenes without missing any crucial information
• Adhere to specific style guides and captioning rules
• Ensure captions are readable, coherent, and retain the original intent of the dialogue
• Work closely with editors and producers to meet deadlines and quality standards

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Closed Captioning Reporter, Transcriber or similar role
• Exceptional listening skills and attention to detail
• Fast and accurate typing skills (minimum 60 words per minute)
• Excellent command of English language, grammar, and punctuation
• Knowledge of captioning software and equipment
• Understanding of FCC captioning regulations and guidelines
• Able to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• High school diploma or equivalent; certification in Court Reporting or relevant field is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Closed Captioning Reporter
• Work Environment: Fast-paced, high pressure media or broadcasting environment. This role may require irregular hours to cover live events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Production or Senior Editor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $30,000 minimum to $60,000 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 Closed Captioning Reporter Do?

Closed Captioning Reporters, also known as realtime captioners, provide critical services to the deaf and hard-of-hearing community, making audio content accessible through visual means.

They typically work for broadcasting companies, legal settings, educational institutions, or even at live events.

They could also work as freelancers offering their services to various clients.

Their primary task involves listening to live or recorded audio feeds and transcribing the spoken words into written captions.

This includes capturing every word, sound effects, and significant background noises, and accurately conveying the speaker’s tone and emotions.

Closed Captioning Reporters need to ensure that the captions synchronize with the audio, and they need to correct errors promptly.

They use specialized software and equipment, including stenotype machines, to keep up with the rapid pace of speech.

In addition to this, they often prepare and update personal dictionaries and reference materials to improve accuracy.

The role requires excellent listening, typing, and grammar skills, as well as a strong grasp of language and knowledge of various subjects to understand context and jargon.

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Qualifications and Skills

Closed Captioning Reporters require a set of specialized skills and qualifications to translate spoken words into written form for the deaf or hard of hearing, including:

• Fast and accurate typing skills, often requiring the ability to type 200+ words per minute to keep up with live dialogue.
• Excellent listening skills to accurately transcribe verbal information into written form in real time.
• Proficient understanding of the English language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Ability to process information quickly and accurately, even in high-pressure situations, which requires excellent cognitive abilities and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of stenography or the use of stenotype machines can be advantageous in this role.
• Familiarity with the use of captioning software and equipment.
• Understanding of different accents, dialects, and speech patterns to ensure accurate transcription.
• Discretion and respect for confidentiality, as they may often work with sensitive or proprietary information.
• Ability to work irregular hours, as live captioning may be required for events that take place outside of normal business hours.
• Basic knowledge of technical or specialized vocabulary related to various fields, such as sports, politics, science, etc., in order to accurately transcribe specific terminologies.

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Experience Requirements

Closed Captioning Reporters are typically required to have a minimum of one to two years of experience in the field.

This experience could be acquired through internships, part-time roles or previous employment as a transcriptionist, typist, or other related positions that require fast and accurate typing.

Candidates who have undertaken relevant coursework or training programs in transcription, court reporting, or closed captioning are also considered to have necessary experience in the field.

This could involve learning specific software, developing a high typing speed, and understanding the specific language, terminology, and syntax used in captioning.

Those with more than three years of experience are likely to have a more in-depth understanding of the work.

They may have developed advanced skills such as real-time captioning, editing, and the ability to work with complex technical or industry-specific jargon.

Candidates with more than five years of experience in closed captioning reporting might have had the opportunity to work in diverse settings like live television, courtrooms, classrooms, or conferences.

They may also have gained some leadership experience, coordinating teams of closed captioning reporters and supervising the quality of the work, thereby being suitable for managerial roles.

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Education and Training Requirements

Closed Captioning Reporters, also known as court reporters or stenographers, typically require a postsecondary non-degree award from a court reporting program.

These programs are offered by vocational schools, technical institutes, or community colleges.

In these programs, students learn to use stenotype machines, voice writing, and other specialized equipment for transcription.

Graduates usually earn a certificate or associate degree.

A strong understanding of the English language, including grammar, punctuation, and spelling, is also required.

These reporters must also be able to listen effectively and transcribe quickly and accurately.

Many states require Closed Captioning Reporters to have a professional license or certification.

This generally includes passing a written and skill-based test, and some states may require continuing education to keep the license or certification valid.

Experience with computer-assisted transcription (CAT) systems is often required, as many employers use this technology.

Some Closed Captioning Reporters may choose to pursue additional certifications in this area to demonstrate their skills and dedication.

Furthermore, due to the technical nature of many conversations they transcribe, specialized knowledge or experience in a particular field, such as medical or legal, can be beneficial.

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Salary Expectations

A Closed Captioning Reporter earns an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, specializations, geographical location, and the size and type of the employing organization.

 

Closed Captioning Reporter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Closed Captioning Reporter need?

Closed Captioning Reporters should have excellent listening and typing skills to be able to caption live or recorded broadcasts accurately.

They need a strong grasp of the English language, including grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Speed and accuracy are crucial in this role, as well as a good understanding of different accents and dialects.

They should also have knowledge of specialized vocabulary depending on the type of broadcast they are captioning.

 

Do Closed Captioning Reporters need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, having a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, or a related field can be beneficial.

Closed Captioning Reporters often require certification from a nationally recognized court reporting association.

This certification usually involves passing a written examination and a skills test where they have to demonstrate their ability to caption at a certain speed with a high degree of accuracy.

 

What should you look for in a Closed Captioning Reporter resume?

A resume for a Closed Captioning Reporter should highlight their typing speed and accuracy.

It should also show their certification and any specializations they might have, such as medical or legal terminology.

Look for experience in live environments, as this shows they can keep up with fast-paced dialogue.

Proficiency in using captioning software is also a key requirement.

 

What qualities make a good Closed Captioning Reporter?

A good Closed Captioning Reporter is a patient and focused individual who can handle high-pressure situations.

They should have excellent concentration skills to keep up with fast-moving dialogue and accurately interpret what is being said.

They also need to be flexible, as they may need to work irregular hours depending on when broadcasts are scheduled.

A solid understanding of confidentiality rules and a high degree of professionalism are also important.

 

How is the job market for Closed Captioning Reporters?

The job market for Closed Captioning Reporters is generally stable, with a steady demand for their services.

This demand is driven by the need for accessibility in television, online media, and live events.

There are opportunities for both full-time and freelance work.

However, competition can be high, especially for live captioning jobs, so having a specialization or advanced certification can give candidates an edge.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on the intricate world of a closed captioning reporter.

And guess what?

It’s not just about transcribing words.

It’s about ensuring accessibility and inclusivity, one caption at a time.

With our go-to closed captioning reporter job description template and real-world examples, you’re on the right track to make your career move.

But why stop there?

Immerse yourself even more with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every caption you create makes a significant difference.

Let’s make communication accessible. Together.

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