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Contract Video Editor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Aquent

Video Editor

Culver City, CA · On-site

$36.74 - $40.81/hr

Are you a master of short-form video, with a keen eye for what captivates audiences across social platforms? We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Senior Social Editor to play a pivotal role ...

Mercor

Adobe Premiere Video Editor

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$60 - $80/hr

Contract Compensation: $60-$80/hour Location: Remote Role Responsibilities * Develop and execute video editing projects using Adobe Premiere . * Enhance video quality through advanced postproduction ...

INVIZ

Social Video Editor (Contract)

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Invisible Narratives is looking for a contract Social Video Editor. You live on YouTube, TikTok, and Reels, and you know how to cut content that performs there. You understand hooks, pacing, and ...

Adecco

Adobe Premiere Pro Video Editor

Sunnyvale, CA

$68.52/hr

Responsibilities for Adobe Premiere Pro video editor include but are not limited to: · Seeking a contract Adobe Premiere Pro video editor with experience cutting corporate, educational, and ...

INVIZ

Social Video Editor (Contract)

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Invisible Narratives is looking for a contract Social Video Editor. You live on YouTube, TikTok, and Reels, and you know how to cut content that performs there. You understand hooks, pacing, and ...

TrueShort

Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$250 - $350/day

Experience with AI video workflows and generation tools (Kling, Veo, Seedance, Runway, etc.) is a ... Contract Role * $250-$350 per day * Potential for long-term employment or full-time role * Los ...

TrueShort

AI Music Composer & Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

Working closely with the Showrunner, AI Filmmakers, Editors, and our Sound Designer, you'll help ... Contract Role * Potential for long-term employment or full-time role * $200-$450 per episode

Youth Beat

Junior Producer Apprenticeship

Oakland, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Junior Producer Apprenticeship An entry-level position in video, photography, video editing, and ... limited to, invoicing, contracts, budget management, proposals, etc. * Collaborating and ...

Outerknown

Brand Editor & Videographer

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled Video Editor who lives and breathes storytelling through motion ... Manage freelance/ contract resources to create content, obtain footage and support production of ...

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Contract Video Editor information

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$11

$31

$56

How much do contract video editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract video editor in California is $31.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $39.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract video editor?

A Contract Video Editor is a freelance or temporary professional hired to edit video content for clients or companies on a project-by-project basis. They use editing software to assemble raw footage, add effects, adjust audio, and ensure the final product meets creative and technical standards. Contract Video Editors may work remotely or on-site and often collaborate with directors, producers, and other creatives. Their workload and income can vary depending on project availability and client needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract video editor?

To thrive as a Contract Video Editor, you need expertise in video editing techniques, storytelling, and a solid understanding of visual composition, typically supported by a portfolio of past work. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and After Effects is essential, and certifications in these tools can be advantageous. Strong communication, time management, and the ability to work independently with minimal supervision set top candidates apart. These skills are critical for consistently delivering high-quality video content that meets client expectations within tight deadlines.

What are the typical challenges faced by contract video editors and how can they be addressed?

Contract video editors often face challenges such as managing multiple project deadlines, interpreting varying client visions, and adapting to different brand guidelines. Success in the role typically depends on strong organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to receive and implement constructive feedback. Proactively clarifying project expectations at the outset and maintaining open communication with clients or creative teams can help avoid misunderstandings. Effective time management, using collaboration tools, and keeping software skills up-to-date are also critical for staying competitive and delivering projects on time.

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Editor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Video Editor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Video Editor jobs in California?

For Contract Video Editor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Video Editor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Video Editor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Contract Video Editor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Contract Video Editor job openings:

Contract Video Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Video Editor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,867 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Video Editor

Aquent

Culver City, CA • On-site

$36.74 - $40.81/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Review short-form videos for platform fit, pacing, hook strength, and strategic alignment.

  • Coordinate the daily production queue, translate briefs into clip assignments, and track production volume and turnaround times.

  • Operate AI clipping tools and produce or refine clips using Adobe Premiere Pro to support content creation and quality standards.

Job description

Placement Type:
Temporary
Salary:
$36.74-40.81 Hourly
up to $40.81/hr
Start Date:
Sep 1, 2026
Partnering with Aquent, you'll have the opportunity to join a dynamic team at a leading global entertainment and media company, renowned for captivating audiences worldwide. This organization is at the forefront of delivering engaging content, constantly innovating to connect with millions through compelling storytelling and cutting-edge digital experiences.
Are you a master of short-form video, with a keen eye for what captivates audiences across social platforms? We are seeking a highly skilled and creative Senior Social Editor to play a pivotal role in shaping our digital presence. In this position, you will directly influence how millions discover and engage with our content, transforming raw footage into viral-ready moments and driving significant audience growth. Your expertise will be crucial in setting content trends, optimizing workflows, and ensuring our brand consistently shines across the most popular social channels.
What You'll Do
  • Content Curation & Quality Assurance:
    • Review short-form video content with a critical eye, ensuring platform fit, compelling pacing, strong hooks, and strategic alignment for maximum impact.
    • Provide precise, actionable feedback on timing, framing, moment selection, and text-overlay placement to elevate content quality.
    • Champion current best practices for leading social platforms, including TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and X, ensuring all content is native and optimized.
    • Uphold a consistent standard of excellence across all clips, platforms, and content types.
    • Produce and refine high-quality short-form clips using Adobe Premiere Pro, demonstrating advanced editing capabilities.
  • Workflow Management & Optimization:
    • Translate strategic briefs from content managers into clear, prioritized clip assignments, driving efficient production.
    • Orchestrate and coordinate a high-volume daily production queue, managing diverse content across various brands and cultural moments.
    • Monitor production volume and turnaround times, proactively communicating any potential capacity constraints to maintain smooth operations.
    • Document and refine standard operating procedures for an advanced AI-powered clipping workflow, contributing to continuous improvement.
    • Collaborate seamlessly with publishing teams to ensure accurate and timely asset handoffs, guaranteeing content reaches audiences when it matters most.
  • Leveraging AI & Hands-On Production:
    • Operate an advanced AI clipping tool with expert proficiency, leveraging its capabilities to streamline content creation.
    • Actively identify and propose opportunities to enhance AI prompts, optimize production processes, and boost overall workflow efficiency.
    • Share valuable tool feedback and observations with product and engineering partners, contributing directly to the evolution of our content technology.
    • Step in to produce clips directly for complex briefs or during periods of increased volume, showcasing your hands-on editing prowess.
    • Utilize Adobe Premiere Pro to meticulously refine and finalize high-quality social content, ensuring a polished and engaging final product.

What You'll Bring
  • At least two years of professional experience in social media content creation, video editing, or social publishing.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro, demonstrating mastery of editing techniques.
  • A deep understanding of short-form video best practices across major social platforms (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and X).
  • Proven experience in reviewing creative work and delivering clear, constructive, and actionable feedback.
  • Exceptional organizational and project-coordination skills, capable of managing multiple priorities.
  • Demonstrated ability to thrive in high-volume, fast-turnaround production environments without sacrificing quality.
  • Familiarity with AI-powered creative tools, including generative AI, automated editing, or NLP-based solutions.
  • A strong grasp of social algorithms, content formats, engagement drivers, and audience behavior.
  • Impeccable editorial judgment and the ability to identify compelling, culturally relevant moments that resonate with audiences.

Bonus Points If You Have
  • Possesses strong editorial taste and an unwavering attention to detail.
  • Works efficiently at high volume while consistently maintaining superior quality standards.
  • Thrives in fast-paced, real-time content environments, adapting quickly to new challenges.
  • Takes initiative, anticipates needs, and responds rapidly to changing priorities.
  • Adept at translating strategic briefs into precise and impactful editing decisions.
  • Successfully balances creative vision with strong organizational skills and workflow discipline.
  • Experience within the entertainment, media, or streaming content industry.

About Aquent Talent:
Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world's biggest brands.
Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits!
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We're about creating an inclusive environment-one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.
Client Description
Our fast growing client is a global leader renowned for shaping the future and impacting millions worldwide! If you're seeking an opportunity to work on cutting-edge initiatives and accelerate your career within a culture of bold ideas, we can connect you to your next great adventure. Contribute your talents in a place that values innovation, creativity, and leadership!

Apply