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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

Sep 1, 2026 We are seeking a Senior Social Editor for a contract opportunity supporting an in-house social clipping function. This role combines short-form video editing, quality review, and project ...

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

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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How much do contract video editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 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 6 days ago

Job description

Placement Type:
Temporary
Salary:
$36.74-40.81 Hourly
up to $40.81/hr
Start Date:
Sep 1, 2026
We are seeking a Senior Social Editor for a contract opportunity supporting an in-house social clipping function. This role combines short-form video editing, quality review, and project coordination to deliver engaging, platform-native content at scale.
The Senior Social Editor will translate briefs into actionable assignments, coordinate a high-volume production queue, and ensure clips meet quality standards across TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and X.
About the Role
You will partner with Social Managers to interpret briefs, identify compelling moments, and provide specific editorial guidance on what to cut and how to cut it.
The ideal candidate brings strong editorial judgment, advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro, experience working within fast-turnaround creative workflows, and familiarity with AI-powered content tools. You should be comfortable reviewing work, providing constructive feedback, improving production processes, and editing clips directly when needed.
Primary Responsibilities
Editing and Quality Control
  • Review short-form video for platform fit, pacing, hook strength, and strategic alignment.
  • Provide clear, actionable feedback on timing, framing, moment selection, and text-overlay placement.
  • Ensure content follows current best practices for TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and X.
  • Maintain consistent quality across clips, platforms, and content types.
  • Produce and refine short-form clips using Adobe Premiere Pro.

Project Coordination and Workflow
  • Receive briefs from Social Managers and translate them into clear, prioritized clip assignments.
  • Coordinate the daily production queue across multiple titles, brands, and cultural moments.
  • Track production volume and turnaround times and communicate potential capacity constraints.
  • Document and maintain standard operating procedures for the AI-powered clipping workflow.
  • Coordinate with publishing teams to support accurate and timely asset handoffs.

AI Tools and Hands-On Editing
  • Operate the organization's proprietary AI clipping tool at an advanced level.
  • Identify opportunities to improve prompts, production processes, and workflow efficiency.
  • Share tool feedback and observations with product and engineering partners.
  • Produce clips directly to support complex briefs or periods of increased volume.
  • Use Adobe Premiere Pro to refine and finalize high-quality social content.

Required Qualifications
  • At least two years of experience in social media content creation, video editing, or social publishing.
  • Advanced proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro.
  • Demonstrated understanding of short-form video best practices across major social platforms.
  • Experience reviewing creative work and providing clear, actionable feedback.
  • Strong organizational and project-coordination skills.
  • Ability to work within high-volume, fast-turnaround production environments.
  • Familiarity with AI-powered creative tools, including generative AI, automated editing, or NLP-based tools.
  • Understanding of social algorithms, content formats, engagement drivers, and audience behavior.
  • Strong editorial judgment and the ability to identify compelling, culturally relevant moments.
  • Entertainment, media, or streaming content experience is preferred.

Ideal Candidate
  • Brings strong editorial taste and attention to detail.
  • Works efficiently at high volume without compromising quality.
  • Thrives in fast-paced, real-time content environments.
  • Takes initiative and responds quickly to changing priorities.
  • Translates strategic briefs into clear editing decisions.
  • Balances creativity with organization and workflow discipline.

#LI-KR2
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!

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