Closed Captioning Writer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of digital communication, the focus on closed captioning writers has become more prominent than ever.

As media accessibility continues to advance, the demand for skilled individuals who can accurately transcribe, edit, and format our audiovisual content grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What is actually expected from a closed captioning writer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager designing the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the process of closed captioning,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we reveal a flexible closed captioning writer job description template, created for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Closed Captioning Writer Duties and Responsibilities

Closed Captioning Writers work to provide textual versions of the audio content during video broadcasts, films, or online content for the benefit of hearing-impaired viewers.

They are responsible for ensuring that the captions are accurate, well-timed, and convey the intended meaning.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Transcribe and translate audio content into text
• Provide real-time captions for live broadcasts or events
• Edit pre-existing closed captions for accuracy and appropriateness
• Ensure that captions are synchronized with the audio
• Use specialized software to input captions and subtitles
• Review and correct any spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors
• Adapt language and phrasing to reflect accurate tone and context
• Work closely with video editors, producers, and other team members to ensure the quality of captions
• Follow confidentiality and copyright laws
• Maintain awareness of cultural nuances and idioms to ensure accurate translation
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends and advancements in captioning technology

 

Closed Captioning Writer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Closed Captioning Writer to provide accurate and timely captions for our video content.

The Closed Captioning Writer’s responsibilities include transcribing spoken dialogues, describing relevant non-verbal sounds, and ensuring the synchronization of captions with dialogues.

Our ideal candidate has a strong command over the English language, a keen ear, and a fast typing speed.

Experience with transcription software and knowledge of industry standards are also essential.

Ultimately, the Closed Captioning Writer will contribute to making our content accessible to a broader audience, including those with hearing impairments.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribing audio content of videos into written text
• Describing important non-verbal elements within the video content
• Ensuring synchronization of captions with spoken dialogues
• Correcting errors in spelling, grammar, and punctuation in captions
• Meeting tight deadlines without compromising the quality of captions
• Adhering to specific styles and guidelines
• Reviewing and revising work as necessary

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Closed Captioning Writer or similar role
• Proficient typing speed and accuracy
• Excellent command over English language, including spelling, grammar, and punctuation
• Strong listening skills
• Attention to detail
• Familiarity with captioning software and transcription tools
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• High school diploma; relevant certification is a plus

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Closed Captioning Writer
• Work Environment: This is typically a remote role with flexible hours. However, occasional in-office meetings or training may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Content Manager or Editor.
• Salary: Salary will be determined based on candidate’s experience, qualifications, and the prevailing industry standard.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time, Part-time, or Freelance depending upon the needs of the business
• 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, a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience, and any relevant certification to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Closed Captioning Writer Do?

Closed Captioning Writers are primarily responsible for providing written transcriptions of audio content in television broadcasts, films, or online videos for the benefit of the hearing impaired or for those who might be watching in a sound-sensitive environment.

They listen to dialogues, sounds, and music and convert them into text format in real-time or pre-recorded settings.

Their job is to ensure that the captions accurately reflect the audio, including the identification of speakers and any significant sounds.

Closed Captioning Writers must be adept at following along with fast-paced dialogue, be skilled in grammar and punctuation, and have a good understanding of the context to provide accurate captions.

They also need to be able to handle different accents, dialects, and slangs.

In addition, they might be required to edit and correct any errors in existing captions or transcripts, ensuring that the final output is clear and free from mistakes.

Some Closed Captioning Writers may specialize in specific areas like news broadcasts, sports, or entertainment, while others work across different types of content.

Their work is pivotal in making video content accessible to a wider audience, including those with hearing impairments or those who are not native speakers of the language of the broadcast.

 

Closed Captioning Writer Qualifications and Skills

Closed Captioning Writers require a specific skill set and qualifications to accurately transcribe and synchronize text with audiovisual content, such as:

• Proficient typing skills to quickly transcribe audio into written content.
• Excellent listening skills to accurately interpret and transcribe spoken dialogue and important non-verbal elements.
• Strong knowledge of the grammar, spelling, and punctuation of the language being transcribed.
• Technical skills to operate and troubleshoot captioning software and equipment.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure synchronization between audio and captions, accuracy of transcriptions, and proper identification of speakers.
• Research skills to accurately transcribe specialized terminology, names, or cultural references.
• Time management skills to meet strict deadlines for captioned content.
• Understanding of accessibility laws and regulations related to closed captioning.
• Ability to work in a team environment, collaborating with editors, producers and other production staff.

 

Closed Captioning Writer Experience Requirements

Closed Captioning Writers usually start their careers with an entry-level position after completing a degree or a certification in English, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.

These early stages of their careers may include internships or part-time roles where they can gain a basic understanding of the closed captioning industry, learn about real-time captioning, transcription, and subtitling.

Within 1 to 2 years of experience, these professionals typically develop their speed in typing and improve their listening skills, while gaining a solid understanding of punctuation, grammar, and spelling.

They may also develop proficiency in using specialized software for captioning and transcription.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience usually have a strong command over the English language and its nuances, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the technical aspects of closed captioning.

They are expected to have excellent typing speeds and the ability to work under strict deadlines.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may have leadership experience and could be ready for roles such as Team Leader or Manager in the closed captioning department.

They are often expected to oversee the quality of work, mentor new writers, and liaise with clients and broadcasting networks.

 

Closed Captioning Writer Education and Training Requirements

Closed Captioning Writers typically require a bachelor’s degree in English, journalism, communication, or a related field.

Having a keen eye for detail, excellent English language proficiency, and a fast typing speed are key skills required for this role.

Most employers also require familiarity with various captioning software and editing tools.

These writers need to be proficient in the use of grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

They must also understand the technical aspects of broadcasting and digital media.

Some employers may require Closed Captioning Writers to have previous experience in a similar role or in transcription services.

Certification in closed captioning, available through organizations such as the National Court Reporters Association, may also be required or preferred.

Ongoing training and experience in the field of broadcasting, journalism, or media production can be beneficial for career advancement.

A strong understanding of cultural references, idioms, and slang is also helpful as it ensures that the captions accurately reflect the content being shown.

Advanced courses and training in different forms of closed captioning, such as real-time captioning, can further enhance a Closed Captioning Writer’s skills and employability.

 

Closed Captioning Writer Salary Expectations

A Closed Captioning Writer earns an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can vary greatly depending on the individual’s level of experience, the complexity of the work required, and the geographical location.

 

Closed Captioning Writer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Closed Captioning Writer need?

A Closed Captioning Writer should possess excellent listening skills and be able to accurately transcribe dialogue, background noises, and music.

They should also be proficient in grammar and punctuation, and possess a good understanding of the technical jargon associated with various industries.

Speed and accuracy in typing are critical skills, along with proficiency in using transcription software.

Familiarity with foreign languages could also be beneficial.

 

What does a Closed Captioning Writer’s work entail?

A Closed Captioning Writer’s work primarily involves transcribing audio content of television programs, films, and online videos into written text.

This includes not only dialogue but also sound effects, background noises, and music.

The writer needs to ensure that the captions synchronize with the audio, are accurately spelled, and properly placed on the screen, providing viewers with a full understanding of the content.

 

What qualifications does a Closed Captioning Writer need?

Many employers prefer Closed Captioning Writers with a bachelor’s degree in English, Journalism, or a related field, but this is not always required.

Essential is a strong command of the English language and experience or training in transcription.

Experience with specific transcription software could also be beneficial.

Some companies require Closed Captioning Writers to pass a speed-typing test.

 

What qualities make a good Closed Captioning Writer?

A good Closed Captioning Writer should have excellent attention to detail and the ability to concentrate for long periods of time.

They should be able to work quickly and accurately under pressure to meet strict deadlines.

Moreover, they should have a keen ear for distinguishing different voices and sounds and a good understanding of the context to create accurate captions.

An appreciation of diversity in language use and cultural references could also be beneficial.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

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

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about transcribing words.

It’s about weaving a story that speaks to everyone, one subtitle at a time.

With our comprehensive closed captioning writer job description template and real-life instances, you’re ready to make your next move.

But don’t put a full stop here.

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating perfectly tailored job postings or enhancing your resume to the nines.

Remember:

Every word transcribed is a part of a larger narrative.

Let’s script that story. Together.

How to Become a Closed Captioning Writer (Complete Guide)

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