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Captioning Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CYNET SYSTEMS

Digital Events Producer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$55 - $57/hr

Familiarity with captioning workflows, video encoding standards, and content management systems. * Experience in an enterprise technology environment. Qualification And Education: * High School ...

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Captioning information

See California salary details

$13.3K

$64.5K

$111K

How much do captioning jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for captioning in California is $64,534.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,900.00 and $74,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is captioning and what does a captioner do?

Captioning is the process of converting spoken dialogue and sounds in videos, television programs, or live events into written text that appears on the screen. Captioners listen to audio and transcribe it accurately, often including non-verbal sounds and speaker identification to assist viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing. Their work ensures content is accessible to a wider audience and may involve real-time (live) or offline (pre-recorded) captioning. Captioners must have excellent listening, typing, and language skills.

What Are the Qualifications to Get a Job in Captioning?

The primary qualifications for a job in captioning are a high school diploma or GED certificate and excellent communication skills. Employers prefer applicants who have call center experience, but this is not necessary for most roles. Performing the duties of a captioning job requires excellent short-term memory, fast and accurate typing skills, and the ability to communicate effectively through speech and text. Most captioning jobs are largely independent, so the ability to work well with minimal supervision is essential to success.

Is captioning still a job?

Yes, captioning is still a viable job, with opportunities in live and pre-recorded settings for television, online videos, and accessibility services. Captioners often use specialized software and may need certification or training to ensure accuracy and compliance with accessibility standards.

How much money do captioners make?

Captioners typically earn between $15 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and the type of captioning work (such as live or offline). Many work as independent contractors, and rates can vary based on the complexity of the content and the platform used. Experienced captioners with specialized skills or certifications may command higher pay.

What is the difference between Captioning vs Transcription?

AspectCaptioningTranscription
Required CredentialsOften requires certification in captioning or related trainingMay require general transcription skills, sometimes certification
Work EnvironmentLive or pre-recorded media, TV, online videosAudio or video files, various industries
Industry UsageBroadcast, media, education, accessibility servicesLegal, medical, business, media

Captioning and transcription both involve converting audio to text, but captioning focuses on real-time or synchronized text for media accessibility, while transcription involves creating a written record of audio content for various purposes. Captioning typically requires specialized skills and certifications for media synchronization, whereas transcription emphasizes accuracy across different industries.

Can I get paid to caption videos?

Yes, captioning jobs are paid positions where individuals transcribe or create captions for videos, often requiring skills in typing, listening, and familiarity with captioning software. Payment can vary based on the project, employer, and experience level, with some roles offering freelance or full-time opportunities.

How do I become a captioner?

To become a captioner, you typically need strong typing skills, proficiency in captioning software, and a good understanding of grammar and punctuation. Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, and some may prefer certification from organizations like the National Court Reporters Association. Gaining experience through training programs or freelance work can also help establish your skills in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Captioner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Captioner, you need excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing abilities, and a strong command of grammar and spelling, often supported by relevant training or coursework. Familiarity with captioning software, speech recognition tools, and transcription systems is commonly required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to concentrate for extended periods are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills ensure that captions are accurate, timely, and accessible, which is vital for effective communication and inclusivity.

What are some common challenges faced by captioners, and how can they be managed on the job?

Captioners often face challenges such as keeping up with fast-paced speech, distinguishing between overlapping voices, and ensuring accuracy under tight deadlines. To manage these, strong listening skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with transcription software are essential. Many captioners also develop shorthand techniques and use specialized tools to improve real-time typing speed. Regular practice and staying updated on industry tools can help overcome these hurdles and maintain high-quality captions.
More about Captioning jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Captioning jobs in California? The most popular types of Captioning jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Captioning jobs in California? For Captioning jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Captioning jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Captioning jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Captioning jobs? Cities in California with the most Captioning job openings:
Captioning jobs near you
Infographic showing various Captioning job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,534 per year, or $31 per hour.
Closed Captioning & Content Creation Specialist | Titan TV | Student Assistant

Closed Captioning & Content Creation Specialist | Titan TV | Student Assistant

California State University

Fullerton, CA

$16.90 - $24/hr

Other

Re-posted 2 days ago

California State University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Closed Captioning & Content Creation Specialist | Titan TV | Student Assistant

Apply now Job no: 558028
Work type: Student Assistant
Location: Fullerton
Categories: Administrative, Part Time, On-site (work in-person at business location), Unit 15 - CSUEU - Student Assistants

Job Title

Closed Captioning & Content Creation Specialist Student Assistant

Salary

Classification Range $16.90 - $24.00 per hour

Anticipated hiring range depending on qualifications, not to exceed $16.90 per hour.

Department

Titan TV

Work Schedule

Based upon availability

Job Summary

One position available. Under direct supervision, the student assistant will assist with providing closed captioning and quality control support for our programming at Titan Communications. A CC Student Assistant should exhibit a high level of proficiency with the English language, as well as computer skills, and be extremely detail-oriented. They should also be team-oriented, possess organizational skills, and be able to meet deadlines.

The Closed Captioning and Content Creation Student Assistant will assist staff with the following:

Assist with all productions to have closed captions to conform to ADA (American Disabilities Act) requirements of PEG Channels
Assist the Production Coordinator with quality control of all programming
Assist in Titan TV productions as needed
Assist with programming quality and compliance with all station policies and broadcast standards
Assist staff with weekly reports for submission to the Production Coordinator
Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Ability to learn and perform assigned work; follow oral instructions; work cooperatively with faculty, staff, and other students; communicate effectively with all levels; and read and write English at a level appropriate to the position.

Required Qualifications

  • Current student at CSUF and is enrolled/registered (fees paid) in a current regular semester as a new or continuing student.
  • Student who has completed the prior semester (has not graduated), or who is registered for the subsequent semester.
  • In good academic standing (not on academic probation, continued probation, academic dismissal).
  • Student who is authorized to work in the United States and can provide employment eligibility documents.

OUT-OF-STATE EMPLOYMENT POLICY

In accordance with the California State University (CSU) Out-of-State Employment Policy, the CSU is a state entity whose business operations reside within the State of California and requires hiring employees to perform CSU related work within the State of California.

Online application/resume must be received by electronic submission on the final filing date by 9:00 PM (Pacific Standard Time)/midnight (Eastern Standard Time). Applicants who fail to complete all sections of the online application form will be disqualified from consideration. Employee/applicant who submits an application for a position may be required to successfully complete job related performance test(s) as part of the selection process.  California State University, Fullerton is not a sponsoring agency.  All unsolicited resumes will be returned without review.  California State University, Fullerton celebrates all forms of diversity and is deeply committed to fostering an inclusive environment within which students, staff, administrators and faculty thrive. Individuals interested in advancing the University's strategic diversity goals are strongly encouraged to apply. Reasonable accommodations will be provided for qualified applicants with disabilities who self-disclose.

Advertised: 13 May 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: 18 Dec 2026 Pacific Standard Time

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About California State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

California State University, Fresno is one of 23 campuses in the California State University System. The University's mission is to boldly educate and empower students for success through our values of Discovery, Diversity and Distinction. The current student population is more than 25,000, including a large percentage of students with diverse and culturally rich backgrounds. The University serves the San Joaquin Valley while maintaining deep involvement with the state, nation, and across the globe.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Long Beach, CA, US

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