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Colorist Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stagwell Global LLC

Video Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Does not need to identify as a colorist, but has the ability to work with the Creative Director on ... In addition to base salary, SKDK considers other key components as part of total compensation ...

Skdk

Video Editor

New York, NY

$110K - $120K/yr

Does not need to identify as a colorist, but has the ability to work with the Creative Director on ... In addition to base salary, SKDK considers other key components as part of total compensation ...

ALO

Color Manager

Commerce, CA · On-site

$130K - $140K/yr

The ideal Candidate will have 5-10 years of experience as a Colorist; with a performance brand is a ... Please note that actual salaries will vary based on factors including but not limited to location ...

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Colorist Salary information

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How much do colorist salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for colorist salary in the United States is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges colorists face when working on tight deadlines?

Colorists often need to balance creative vision with strict production timelines, especially in fast-paced environments like television or advertising. Meeting tight deadlines can mean managing last-minute changes, addressing client feedback quickly, and ensuring color consistency across different scenes or shots. Effective communication with directors, editors, and other post-production team members is crucial. Staying organized and using efficient workflows help colorists deliver high-quality results without sacrificing attention to detail.

What degree do you need to be a colorist?

A colorist typically does not require a specific degree but benefits from training in film or digital imaging, art, or photography. Many learn through specialized courses, workshops, or on-the-job experience, and proficiency with color grading software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere is essential.

What is the difference between Colorist Salary vs Hair Colorist Salary?

AspectColorist SalaryHair Colorist Salary
Required CredentialsCosmetology license, color theory knowledgeCosmetology license, color application skills
Work EnvironmentSalons, film/TV studios, fashion shootsSalons, beauty clinics, freelance
Industry UsageFashion, entertainment, personal stylingPersonal grooming, beauty services

Both roles involve hair coloring skills and cosmetology licensing, but a Colorist typically works in professional settings like fashion or film, while a Hair Colorist focuses on personal salon services. Salary differences depend on experience, location, and industry sector.

What art-related jobs are about $80,000 a year?

A colorist in the film and television industry can earn around $80,000 annually, especially with experience and advanced skills in color grading software like DaVinci Resolve or Baselight. Other art-related roles such as art directors or senior graphic designers may also reach this salary level depending on industry, location, and experience.

What is a colorist and how much do they typically earn?

A colorist is a professional who specializes in adjusting and enhancing the color of images, most commonly in film, television, photography, or print. Their work ensures that the final product has the desired visual tone and consistency. The average salary for a colorist varies depending on experience, location, and industry, but in the United States, colorists typically earn between $45,000 and $90,000 per year. Senior colorists with significant experience and working on high-budget projects can earn even more.

How much do colourists make?

Colorists typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Experienced colorists working in film, television, or high-end advertising may earn higher salaries, especially with advanced skills in software like DaVinci Resolve or Baselight.

Is colorist a difficult job?

A colorist job involves detailed work with color grading and correction, requiring technical skills, an eye for detail, and proficiency with editing software. It can be challenging due to tight deadlines and the need for precision, but experience and training can help manage the complexity.

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

To thrive as a Colorist, you need a strong understanding of color theory, digital imaging, and video editing, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications in film, media, or design. Proficiency with color grading software such as DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, and calibration tools is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help Colorists collaborate effectively with directors and cinematographers. These skills are crucial to ensure visual consistency, support creative vision, and produce high-quality content that meets industry standards.
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Colorist Salary jobs near you
Infographic showing various Colorist Salary job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 29% Hybrid, and 71% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,641 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Video Editor

Video Editor

Stagwell Global LLC

Washington, DC • On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

SKDK is an award-winning strategic communications, public affairs, and advertising agency. With offices in Washington, D.C., New York, Boston, Albany, and Los Angeles, SKDK partners with Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, philanthropies, political candidates, and committees to solve complex challenges through integrated communications strategy, storytelling, content creation, crisis management, media placement, and digital innovation. Committed to building diverse and inclusive teams, SKDK delivers transformative results for its clients.  

Job Description:We’re looking for aTV commercial editor. In this role, you’ll make TV commercials for many of our top clients, including some of the biggest Democratic campaigns and advocacy organizations across the country. This position is for the 2026 cycle. 

The ideal person for this role will be able to deliver high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities include: 

  • Edit content across multiple ad lengths, including 15-, 30-, and 60-second TV spots, as well as long-form videos.
  • Work with a range of motion graphic treatments; must be comfortable with light motion graphics work.
  • Produce content across a variety of tones, including ads supporting and opposing candidates and causes.
  • Execute diverse creative treatments, including combining typography, motion graphics, sound effects, and LUTs to create cohesive visual styles.
  • Integrate assets from a wide range of sources, including news footage, internal and external video, and still images (stock or sourced online), with or without heavy graphic treatment.

  • Collaborate with the Creative Director, production team, and senior strategy team to blend strategic and visual goals. 
  • Create 15-second, 30-second, 60-second, and long-form videos in a timely fashion (some projects will need to be started and finished in 24 hours). 
  • Concept, create, and edit ads that meet all of our client’s needs (various needs mentioned above). 
  • Create and/or contribute sound design to your work, or the work of other editors. 
  • Does not need to identify as a colorist, but has the ability to work with the Creative Director on spots color. Many projects may not have the budget or time for a colorist. 
  • Stay up-to-date with the latest video editing techniques, trends in advertising, and advancements in motion graphics and animation. 
  • Provide expertise and input during creative meetings, contributing to the development of campaign strategies and creative concepts. 
  • Ensure all video content aligns with brand guidelines and campaign objectives.

  • Strong portfolio showcasing expertise in video editing, including experience with motion graphics. 
  • Experience in the political campaigns and advocacy space is preferred but not required. 
  • Expertise in video editing software (Adobe Premiere Pro) and familiarity with motion graphics tools (Adobe After Effects). 
  • Excellent storytelling abilities, with a keen eye for detail and visual aesthetics. 
  • Strong attention to detail with a commitment to thorough quality assurance processes, especially under tight deadlines. 
  • Excellent teamwork skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues. 
  • Adaptability to a fast-paced environment, skilled in juggling multiple tasks with tight deadlines.

SKDK is committed to pay equity. SKDK believes the target base compensation in this role is between $110,000-$120,000 per year. In addition to base salary, SKDK considers other key components as part of total compensation, including but not limited to commission on new business and a comprehensive benefits package. Actual base compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors, such as skillset, level of experience, and location.
 
 
SKDK provides a generous benefits package including excellent coverage for health, vision, and dental insurance premiums; paid parental leave; time off including vacation, holidays, and sick time; 401(k) with an employer contribution, reimbursement for cellular service, public transportation benefits, and additional benefits.
 
SKDK believes in the growth and development of all our employees and therefore we offer:
  • Professional development and career guidance
  • Opportunities for advancement
  • Participation in Employee Resource Groups 
  • A collegial and supportive office environment

SKDK is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse workforce. It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability, or any protected category.

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