Post-Production Captioner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the multimedia world, the focus on post-production captioners has never been more prominent.

As entertainment evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can accurately transcribe, synchronise, and caption our multimedia content.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a post-production captioner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of post-production captioning,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable post-production captioner job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Post-Production Captioner Duties and Responsibilities

Post-Production Captioners focus on providing captions for video content after production, ensuring that it is accessible to all viewers, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing.

They use expert skills in language, timing, and context to create accurate and meaningful captions.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Watch and listen to video content to understand the context and content
• Transcribe dialogue, sound effects, and other relevant audio into written text
• Sync captions with audio and visual elements in video content
• Edit captions for accuracy, proper grammar, and punctuation
• Ensure captions are placed correctly on the screen and do not obscure important visuals
• Use specialized captioning software to create and edit captions
• Adhere to captioning standards and guidelines for readability and timing
• Collaborate with other team members to ensure the final product meets quality standards
• Revise captions based on feedback or for different platforms or audiences
• Maintain records and files of work and revisions

 

Post-Production Captioner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Post-Production Captioner to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for creating, editing and syncing captions in accordance with the video content.

Our ideal candidate has excellent language skills and is familiar with different captioning styles and formats.

 

Responsibilities

• Transcribe dialogue, sound effects, and musical cues
• Create and sync captions to match video content
• Edit and correct any grammatical or typographical errors
• Ensure captions comply with accessibility guidelines
• Coordinate with the editing team to integrate captions seamlessly into the final product
• Stay updated on the latest captioning software and tools
• Work under tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality work
• Ensure that captions are accurate, readable, and comprehensive

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Captioner or similar role
• Proficient in English language, both written and verbal
• Familiarity with captioning software and tools
• Strong attention to detail
• Exceptional listening skills and the ability to understand diverse accents and dialects
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Basic knowledge of the post-production process
• Understanding of FCC captioning guidelines and regulations is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Post-Production Captioner
• Work Environment: This is largely a remote role, with occasional meetings in the office as necessary.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Post-Production Manager.
• Salary: The salary is based upon candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 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 Post-Production Captioner Do?

Post-Production Captioners typically work for media companies, production houses, or may be self-employed professionals, providing services to various clients.

They are primarily responsible for transcribing audio content of videos into text format, creating captions or subtitles that accurately represent the spoken dialogue, sound effects, and music.

Post-Production Captioners ensure synchronization of text with the audio, which involves precise timing and placement of captions to match the flow of the dialogues or sounds on screen.

They may also provide descriptive subtitles for the hearing impaired, involving not only dialogue transcription, but also descriptions of relevant non-dialogue audio, such as important sound effects and music cues.

In addition to this, Post-Production Captioners often work closely with editors and directors to maintain the stylistic consistency of the text, and may also be required to localize content for different regions, translating and adapting captions to suit cultural nuances and linguistic complexities.

Their role is crucial in enhancing the viewing experience for audiences, especially those who are hearing impaired or non-native speakers of the language of the video.

 

Post-Production Captioner Qualifications and Skills

A competent Post-Production Captioner needs to have a certain set of skills and qualifications, including:

• Exceptional language skills to ensure accuracy in grammar, spelling, and syntax, essential for creating high-quality captions.
• Excellent listening and comprehension abilities to accurately transcribe spoken dialogue and sound effects from various forms of media.
• Speed and precision in typing to keep up with the pace of the media being captioned.
• Proficiency in using captioning software and technology, and adaptability to different platforms and tools.
• Knowledge of captioning standards and guidelines to ensure the content is accessible to people with hearing impairments.
• Strong attention to detail in order to correctly represent nuances in dialogue and effectively convey non-verbal elements of the media.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage time efficiently.
• Problem-solving skills to address and resolve issues that may arise during the captioning process.
• Interpersonal skills for effective communication with team members, production staff, and others involved in the post-production process.

 

Post-Production Captioner Experience Requirements

Entry-level post-production captioners may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through an internship or part-time role in a related field such as transcription or translation services.

These professionals can also gain valuable experience in roles related to video editing, media production, or other media-related roles.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often enhance their practical skills and knowledge in post-production captioning or related roles.

They are familiar with captioning software and have a strong understanding of accessibility requirements and standards.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in this field likely have developed advanced proficiency in the use of various captioning and transcription tools and have extensive experience in adhering to tight deadlines in a fast-paced, media production environment.

They may also have some supervisory experience, preparing them for leadership roles within the post-production team.

For these experienced professionals, knowledge of additional languages, familiarity with industry-specific terminologies, and experience in live captioning could be advantageous.

 

Post-Production Captioner Education and Training Requirements

Post-Production Captioners typically need to have a high school diploma or equivalent education.

A bachelor’s degree in English, Communication, Media Studies or a related field can be beneficial but is not always necessary.

The key requirement for a Post-Production Captioner is strong language skills, especially in English, and the ability to accurately transcribe and synchronize captions with the video content.

Some roles may also require proficiency in other languages.

There are various training courses available, either online or in-person, that teach closed captioning, subtitle creation, and the use of relevant software such as EZ Titles, CaptionMaker, and Subtitle Edit.

These are not always mandatory, but they can provide a competitive edge and improve the quality of work.

Certain roles may require Post-Production Captioners to have previous experience in the media industry or familiarity with specialized subjects, depending on the content of the videos they will be working on.

Continuing education and training can be beneficial as it keeps captioners updated on industry standards, technological advancements, and new software.

Certification from a recognized institution like the National Court Reporters Association (NCRA) can also be an advantage, demonstrating a commitment to the profession and a certain level of competence.

 

Post-Production Captioner Salary Expectations

A Post-Production Captioner earns an average salary of $52,000 (USD) per year.

This compensation can differ based on factors like experience level, the complexity of the work, and the location of the job.

 

Post-Production Captioner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Post-Production Captioner need?

A Post-Production Captioner needs excellent typing and grammar skills since their job involves transcribing audio into text.

They should also have a good understanding of closed captioning guidelines and standards.

Attention to detail is critical in ensuring accurate and error-free captions.

In addition, a good captioner should have excellent listening skills and a strong command over the language they are transcribing.

 

Do Post-Production Captioners need a specific degree?

While a specific degree is not mandatory, a degree or a diploma in transcription, media studies, or a related field can be beneficial.

However, what’s most important is a deep understanding of the language, excellent typing speed, and a good grasp of captioning software.

Some employers may also prefer candidates with experience in post-production roles.

 

What should you look for in a Post-Production Captioner’s resume?

A Post-Production Captioner’s resume should showcase their transcription skills and experience, proficiency in relevant software, and understanding of captioning guidelines.

Look for indications of their typing speed and language proficiency.

Prior experience in a similar role or in the media industry can be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Post-Production Captioner?

A good Post-Production Captioner is meticulous, thorough, and detail-oriented to ensure that all captions are accurate and free from errors.

They should also be patient and focused, as the job can often involve transcribing long hours of audio.

Excellent time management skills are important to meet deadlines.

Fluency in multiple languages can be a valuable asset in this role.

 

Is it challenging to hire Post-Production Captioners?

Hiring Post-Production Captioners can be challenging due to the specialized skills required.

It’s important to find candidates with a combination of typing speed, language proficiency, and familiarity with captioning standards and software.

This role also requires a high level of concentration and attention to detail, which not all candidates may possess.

Offering competitive salaries and a conducive work environment can help attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed some light on what it truly means to be a post-production captioner.

Surprised?

It’s not just about transcribing dialogue.

It’s about creating a bridge for communication, one caption at a time.

With our comprehensive post-production captioner job description template and real-world examples, you’re well equipped to make your move.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for meticulously crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every caption is a part of the broader narrative.

Let’s create that narrative. Together.