Film and Video Subtitler Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of visual storytelling, the role of Film and Video Subtitlers has never been more significant.

As globalization expands and the demand for content in multiple languages increases, the need for skillful professionals who can accurately translate, transcribe, and synchronize subtitles for diverse audiences grows significantly.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Film and Video Subtitler?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of film and video subtitling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Film and Video Subtitler job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Film and Video Subtitler Duties and Responsibilities

Film and Video Subtitlers play a key role in making audiovisual content accessible to a broader audience, including foreign language speakers and the hearing-impaired.

They are responsible for creating concise and accurate written versions of spoken dialogue in films, television shows, and videos.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Watching and thoroughly understanding the content to be subtitled
• Transcribing the dialogue, sound effects, and noting any significant visual information
• Translating the dialogue into another language, if necessary
• Timing subtitles to match the audio, ensuring synchronization with the spoken dialogue
• Editing subtitles for brevity while maintaining the original message and tone
• Proofreading and editing subtitles for grammatical and linguistic accuracy
• Using specialized software to encode and place subtitles into the video
• Collaborating with directors, producers, or scriptwriters to ensure the accuracy of context-specific references
• Maintaining a current understanding of language trends, slang, and idiomatic expressions

 

Film and Video Subtitler Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a detail-oriented Film and Video Subtitler to convert dialogues and sounds in a film or video into text.

Responsibilities include understanding the context of the scenes, transcribing dialogues accurately, translating if needed, and synchronizing the subtitles with the video.

Our ideal candidate has a keen ear, a good command of the English language and other languages as required, and a deep understanding of cultures for accurate translation and representation.

Ultimately, the role of the Film and Video Subtitler is to provide clear, correct, and well-timed subtitles for the enjoyment of viewers, regardless of their language proficiency or hearing ability.

 

Responsibilities

• Watch video content to understand context and dialogue
• Transcribe dialogues accurately
• Translate dialogues to other languages if required
• Synchronize subtitles with the video
• Edit and revise subtitles as needed
• Ensure subtitles are displayed long enough to be read by viewers
• Follow script and style guide provided by the company
• Ensure subtitles are in sync with audio
• Work closely with the video editing team for finalization

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Subtitler or similar role in translation
• Proficiency in English and one or more foreign languages
• Excellent writing skills
• Strong understanding of grammar and spelling in the languages you will be working with
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Familiarity with subtitling software and translation tools
• Ability to work under tight deadlines
• Degree in Translation, Linguistics or relevant field

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Work from home opportunities
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Film and Video Subtitler
• Work Environment: Remote work with occasional office meetings. May need to work during unusual hours due to time differences or tight deadlines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Post-production Manager or Project Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Location: Remote or [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a sample of your subtitling work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Film and Video Subtitler Do?

Film and Video Subtitlers work in the film, television and online video industry.

Their primary role is to provide written translations of the audio content of a video, film, or television show into another language.

Their work involves listening to, transcribing, and translating dialogues, narrations, or any spoken content into written words.

They have to ensure that these subtitles match the timing of the speech and actions on screen.

Subtitlers also need to take into account cultural nuances to ensure that the translation is accurate and culturally appropriate for the target audience.

They also have to make sure that the subtitles are not too long or complicated, and are easy to read and understand.

In addition to translation, subtitlers may also be responsible for providing written descriptions of non-dialogue audio elements, such as music or sound effects, for the benefit of hearing-impaired viewers.

They often work closely with translators, video editors, and film directors to ensure that the subtitles are accurate and do not interfere with the viewer’s experience.

Subtitlers may work for film studios, television networks, video production companies, or as freelance consultants.

They may also specialize in a specific type of video content, such as movies, documentaries, or educational videos.

 

Film and Video Subtitler Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Film and Video Subtitler should possess a combination of technical skills, linguistic abilities and a keen understanding of the film and media industry.

The necessary qualifications and skills include:

• Excellent language skills, with fluency in at least two languages, for translating dialogues accurately without losing the nuances or tone of the original content.
• Strong comprehension and writing skills to interpret and transcribe dialogues, ensuring that the subtitles are in sync with the visuals and audio.
• Attention to detail and precision to ensure accurate representation of words, expressions and emotions in the translated language.
• Proficiency in using subtitling software to create, edit and synchronize subtitles with the visual and audio elements of the film or video.
• Time management skills to meet strict deadlines, often working under pressure without compromising on quality.
• Familiarity with the film and video production process, understanding the context and cultural references to maintain the integrity of the original content.
• Sound knowledge of grammar, punctuation, and spelling in the languages they are working with.
• Ability to adapt and create subtitles for a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, action, etc.
• Research skills to understand specific terminology, accents or cultural references in the content.

 

Film and Video Subtitler Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, potentially acquired through an internship or part-time role in film production, media translation, or similar fields.

Professionals can also gain valuable hands-on experience in roles such as Copy Editor, Scriptwriter, Translator or other media-related roles.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience have usually honed their skills in translating spoken words into written form, synchronizing subtitles with dialogue, and ensuring that subtitles are properly displayed on screen.

These skills can be developed through roles like Subtitle Editor, Translation Specialist, or Closed Captioner.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are often proficient in multiple languages and have extensive knowledge of the cultural contexts of the languages they work with.

They have typically worked on a wide range of video content, including movies, TV shows, and online media.

They may also have some leadership experience and might be ready for a supervisory or managerial position in the subtitling industry.

Advanced roles may require candidates to have experience with specific subtitling software, complex translation tasks, or managing a team of subtitlers.

 

Film and Video Subtitler Education and Training Requirements

Film and Video Subtitlers typically have a bachelor’s degree in linguistics, communications, or a related field.

They require excellent language skills in at least two languages, usually including English.

It’s also crucial for them to understand cultural nuances and context to accurately translate the dialogue.

Training in audio-visual translation or a related field is highly beneficial.

Courses in this area often cover subtitling software, timing, text reduction strategies, and synchronization techniques.

Some positions may require subtitlers to have a certification from a recognized translation or interpretation body, demonstrating a high level of linguistic proficiency.

Experience in the film and video industry, as well as familiarity with various genres and formats of content, can be advantageous.

Continuing education and professional development, such as attending workshops or pursuing advanced courses in translation or film studies, can also enhance a subtitler’s skills and career prospects.

 

Film and Video Subtitler Salary Expectations

A Film and Video Subtitler can expect to earn an average salary of $52,500 (USD) per year.

However, this can significantly vary depending on factors such as experience, the complexity of the work, geographical location, and the company they work for.

 

Film and Video Subtitler Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Film and Video Subtitler need?

A Film and Video Subtitler should possess excellent linguistic skills, with proficiency in at least two languages, and a deep understanding of cultural nuances.

They should also have good research skills to understand context and translate idiomatic expressions accurately.

Strong computer skills and familiarity with subtitling software are also important.

Attention to detail and the ability to work under tight deadlines are crucial in this role.

 

Do Film and Video Subtitlers need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, having a degree in a foreign language, translation, or a related field can be beneficial.

Experience or training in film production, linguistics, or screenwriting can also be advantageous.

Some employers may also require certification from a recognized translation organization.

 

What should you look for in a Film and Video Subtitler’s resume?

In addition to checking for language proficiency and qualifications, look for experience in subtitling and familiarity with subtitling software.

Experience in the film industry or in specific genres could also be a plus.

Evidence of strong research skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines would be valuable as well.

 

What qualities make a good Film and Video Subtitler?

A good Film and Video Subtitler is meticulous, ensuring that each subtitle accurately conveys the meaning, tone, and nuance of the spoken dialogue.

They are culturally aware, understanding how to translate colloquialisms and cultural references for an international audience.

They are also adaptable, able to change their translation approach based on the content and target audience.

Good Subtitlers are also able to work under pressure and deliver high-quality work within strict deadlines.

 

What challenges do Film and Video Subtitlers face?

Subtitlers often have to work under tight deadlines, which can be stressful.

They also need to find the balance between literal translation and conveying the intended meaning, tone, and humor of the dialogue, which can be challenging.

Additionally, they may need to do extensive research to accurately translate cultural references or idiomatic expressions.

 

Conclusion

So, there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the intricate workings of being a film and video subtitler.

And guess what?

It’s not just about translating dialogue.

It’s about breathing life into stories, one subtitle at a time.

With our comprehensive film and video subtitler job description template and real-world examples, you’re prepared to step into this captivating field.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating spot-on job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Each subtitle is a part of a larger narrative.

Let’s weave those stories. Together.

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