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Compositor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

DK Global

Visual Media Compositor

Redlands, CA · On-site

$23 - $29/hr

The Visual Media Compositor will support DK Global's marketing initiatives by producing compelling visual content that communicates the company's services, achievements, and events to prospective ...

Parallelz

Principal Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

CPU/GPU bottlenecks, shader cost, texture and buffer management, compositor interactions, and end-to-end streaming latency. * Investigate and resolve faults in complex environments, tracing issues ...

Parallelz

Principal Graphics Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$164K - $203K/yr

CPU/GPU bottlenecks, shader cost, texture and buffer management, compositor interactions, and end-to-end streaming latency. * Investigate and resolve faults in complex environments, tracing issues ...

Parallelz

Principal Graphics Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$164K - $203K/yr

CPU/GPU bottlenecks, shader cost, texture and buffer management, compositor interactions, and end-to-end streaming latency. * Investigate and resolve faults in complex environments, tracing issues ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

San Francisco, CA

You'llneed to be as credible talking to a Nuke compositor as you are in a boardroom with studio executives. * Codify repeatable playbooks: Document reference architectures, prompt engineering ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

You'llneed to be as credible talking to a Nuke compositor as you are in a boardroom with studio executives. * Codify repeatable playbooks: Document reference architectures, prompt engineering ...

Adobe

Staff AI VFX Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

You'llneed to be as credible talking to a Nuke compositor as you are in a boardroom with studio executives. * Codify repeatable playbooks: Document reference architectures, prompt engineering ...

Adobe, Inc.

Staff AI VFX Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

You'll need to be as credible talking to a Nuke compositor as you are in a boardroom with studio executives. * Codify repeatable playbooks: Document reference architectures, prompt engineering ...

All JobsCompositor JobsCompositor Jobs in California

Compositor information

See California salary details

$5

$27

How much do compositor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for compositor in California is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.11 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Compositor vs Graphic Designer?

AspectCompositorGraphic Designer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree or diploma in film, media, or related fields; proficiency in compositing softwareDegree or diploma in graphic design, visual arts, or related fields; proficiency in design software
Work EnvironmentPost-production studios, film sets, visual effects companiesAdvertising agencies, design studios, corporate offices
Industry UsageFilm, television, visual effectsMarketing, branding, print and digital media
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The main difference between a Compositor and a Graphic Designer lies in their focus and work environment. Compositors specialize in combining visual elements in post-production for film and video, requiring skills in visual effects software. Graphic Designers create visual content for branding, advertising, and print, working primarily in design studios or agencies. While both roles involve visual creativity, their tools, industries, and end goals differ significantly.

What are some common challenges a Compositor faces when integrating CGI elements with live-action footage?

A key challenge for Compositors is achieving seamless integration between computer-generated imagery (CGI) and live-action footage. This often involves matching lighting, color grading, and perspective to ensure visual consistency. Compositors must also address issues like edge blending, motion tracking, and removing unwanted artifacts. Attention to detail and strong collaboration with other VFX team members are essential, as multiple iterations may be required to meet the director's vision and the project's technical standards.

What Is a Compositor?

A compositor is responsible for constructing the final image in a film, animation, or video by combining all the layers into the finished product. The artistic and technical skills of these creative interpreters come into play at the end of the production process. As a compositor, your job duties entail taking computer generated or animation images and adding effects such as enhanced lighting, motion blur, and adjusted color levels. You use the latest in compositor software to act as the translator of the various inputs into the finished image.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs like compositors due to high competition, evolving industry skills requirements, and the need for proficiency with digital tools and software. Additionally, economic factors and limited work experience can impact their employment opportunities in creative and technical fields.

What is the job of a compositor?

A compositor is responsible for combining visual elements from different sources into a final image or sequence, often using software like Adobe After Effects or Nuke. They work in film, television, or video production to create seamless visual effects, requiring skills in digital editing and attention to detail.

What is the highest paid art job?

In the field of art, roles such as art directors, concept artists, and senior illustrators tend to have the highest salaries, especially in industries like advertising, film, and video game development. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and proficiency with tools like Adobe Creative Suite or 3D modeling software.

What are compositors?

Compositors are professionals in the visual effects (VFX) and film industry who combine visual elements from different sources into single images, creating the final look of a shot or scene. They use specialized software to blend live-action footage, computer-generated imagery (CGI), matte paintings, and other elements seamlessly. Their work ensures that all visual components appear as if they were filmed together, enhancing the overall realism and artistic intent of the project.

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

To thrive as a Compositor, you need a strong understanding of visual effects principles, color theory, and digital image manipulation, often supported by a degree in animation, film, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Nuke, After Effects, or Fusion, as well as familiarity with render management systems, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with teams and ensuring seamless final shots. These skills ensure high-quality visual integration, efficient workflow, and the delivery of compelling, believable content in film, television, or advertising.

How much does a compositor get paid?

A compositor's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but the median annual pay in the United States is around $60,000 to $80,000. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced compositors working in high-demand environments or with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.
More about Compositor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Compositor jobs in California? The most popular types of Compositor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Compositor jobs in California? For Compositor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Compositor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Compositor jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Compositor jobs in CA? For Compositor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Compositor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Compositor job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,266 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Visual Media Compositor

Visual Media Compositor

DK Global

Redlands, CA • On-site

$23 - $29/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

DK Global is a leading litigation visuals firm that creates high-impact 3D animations and medical illustrations to help trial attorneys communicate complex information and advocate for justice. The Visual Media Compositor will support DK Global’s marketing initiatives by producing compelling visual content that communicates the company’s services, achievements, and events to prospective, new, and existing clients.
This role requires a strong focus on storytelling, visual quality, and attention to detail. The Visual Media Compositor will use Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, and Audition to edit and composite video content, add motion graphics, and create polished promotional media. Content will primarily be developed from assets provided by studio animators, illustrators, and compositors, including storyboards, 2D and 3D animations, and illustrations. The role involves editing raw video footage, integrating sound effects and graphics, digitally assembling footage to deliver high-quality final video renders.

This position may also involve filming on location for case features and marketing projects, followed by editing and post-production work to create finished video content.

Job Responsibilities:
  • Create polished video content using Adobe Premiere, After Effects, Photoshop, and Audition.
  • Ensure all marketing media aligns with company standards and branding.
  • Produce clear, concise, and engaging visual content.
  • Manage multiple projects and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Troubleshoot assets, file conversions, and marketing-related production issues.
  • Anticipate and manage workflow challenges while meeting project deadlines.
  • Collaborate with team members by providing feedback, suggestions, and creative insight.
  • Participate in team meetings and collaborative sessions to advance project development.
  • Work closely with the Marketing Director and Art Director throughout project production.
  • Film, edit, and composite videos for case features and marketing projects as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in a related field.
  • Strong kinetic typography, video editing, and research skills.
  • 4+ years of experience with Adobe Premiere and After Effects.
  • Understanding of 3D compositing, render sequencing, and integrating 3D assets into video production workflows.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with an emphasis on storytelling.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
  • Scriptwriting experience is a plus.
  • Clean DMV record.

Employee Benefits:
  • Employee-matching SIMPLE IRA program.
  • Six paid holidays annually.
  • Paid vacation starting at one week per year.
  • Company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Quarterly bonus programs.

Pay Rate: $23-$29 per hour, depending on experience.
Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week. (This position is on-site in Redlands, CA).

DK Global, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.