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Director Short Film Editor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Distant Moon

Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Distant Moon Film Editor | Leesburg, VA Distant Moon is an award-winning production company seeking ... Collaborate closely with directors and post-production leadership to shape story, pacing, tone, and ...

Distant Moon

Sr. Film Editor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

Distant Moon Senior Film Editor | Leesburg, VA Distant Moon is an award-winning production company ... Collaborate closely with directors to shape story, pacing, tone, and structure * Serve as a ...

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How much do director short film editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for director short film editor in the United States is $31.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director Short Film Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director Short Film Editor, you need strong storytelling abilities, advanced editing skills, and a solid understanding of film language, often supported by a degree in film production or related experience. Mastery of editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve, as well as knowledge of sound design and color grading, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and excellent communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with directors and other team members. These skills are crucial for transforming raw footage into a cohesive, compelling narrative that fulfills the director's vision and engages audiences.

Is video editing still in demand in 2026?

Video editing remains in demand in 2026, especially for short films, online content, and social media platforms. Skilled editors with proficiency in editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro are sought after as video content continues to grow across industries.

What does a Director Short Film Editor do?

A Director Short Film Editor is responsible for assembling and editing raw footage to create a cohesive and compelling short film, working closely with the director to achieve their creative vision. They select the best shots, trim and arrange scenes, adjust pacing, and add effects, sound, and music as needed. Their role is crucial in shaping the story, tone, and emotional impact of the film, often collaborating with other post-production professionals. Strong communication skills, creativity, and technical expertise in editing software are essential for success in this position.

How much do short film editors make?

Short film editors typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project scope. Freelance editors may charge hourly rates ranging from $25 to $100 or more, with rates influenced by skill level and the complexity of the project.

How does a Director Short Film Editor typically collaborate with directors and other creative team members during post-production?

As a Director Short Film Editor, you work closely with the film's director to realize their vision, often engaging in detailed discussions and review sessions to refine narrative flow, pacing, and emotional impact. Collaboration extends to sound designers, colorists, and sometimes visual effects artists to ensure that all technical and creative elements align seamlessly. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as feedback cycles can be frequent and deadlines tight. This teamwork fosters a dynamic environment where creative ideas are shared and the final cut represents a collective effort.

Can a film editor become a director?

A film editor can become a director by gaining experience in storytelling, understanding of production processes, and developing leadership skills. Many directors start in editing or other technical roles to build their understanding of filmmaking before taking on directing responsibilities. Transitioning often involves building a portfolio of projects and networking within the industry.

Is AI replacing video editors?

AI tools are increasingly used to assist video editors by automating tasks like rough cuts, color correction, and basic editing. However, the role of a director short film editor requires creative judgment, storytelling skills, and nuanced editing that AI cannot fully replicate, so human editors remain essential in the process.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Short Film Editor jobs? The most popular types of Short Film Editor jobs are:
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Director Short Film Editor jobs near you
Film Editor

Film Editor

Distant Moon

Leesburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Distant Moon Film Editor | Leesburg, VA

Distant Moon is an award-winning production company seeking a Film Editor to help shape documentary, commercial, and narrative projects from assembly through final delivery.

This role is for an editor with strong storytelling instincts, solid technical ability, and a good sense of pacing, structure, and tone. We're looking for someone who can take creative direction, collaborate well with directors and post-production leadership, and consistently produce polished editorial work across a range of projects.

We care far more about the quality of an editor's work, storytelling instincts, and creative judgment than checking every box on a rsum.

What You'll Do

  • Edit projects through all stages of post-production, from assembly through final delivery
  • Collaborate closely with directors and post-production leadership to shape story, pacing, tone, and structure
  • Organize, sync, label, and manage footage and project assets
  • Build rough cuts, fine cuts, and polished client-facing edits
  • Handle basic temp sound design, music editing, and supporting audio work during editorial process
  • Source archival footage, music, and supporting media assets when needed
  • Prepare projects for color, sound, VFX, and final delivery
  • Upload and manage review versions through Frame.io
  • Maintain organized project files suitable for collaboration and archival
  • Track project tasks and time through internal workflow systems
What We're Looking For
  • Approximately 3 - 5+ years of professional editing experience across documentary, commercial, branded, narrative, or related content environments
  • A portfolio or reel demonstrating strong storytelling instincts, pacing, structure, and creative judgment
  • Strong working knowledge of Premiere Pro and Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Ability to take feedback well, adapt quickly, and collaborate effectively within a post-production team
  • Organized, dependable, and comfortable managing multiple projects and deadlines
  • Self-directed with strong attention to detail and follow-through

Exceptional portfolios and demonstrated storytelling ability may be considered in place of traditional experience requirements.

Bonus Experience

  • After Effects or motion graphics experience
  • Color workflow familiarity
  • On-set production experience
  • Interest in long-form narrative filmmaking
Work Environment

Distant Moon operates from a purpose-built creative studio in Leesburg, Virginia designed specifically for filmmakers, editors, and storytellers. Our workspace was intentionally built to support collaboration, focused editorial work, production planning, and creative development across all stages of filmmaking.

This is an in-person role working alongside directors, editors, producers, and creatives in a highly collaborative studio environment. The space includes dedicated edit suites, production areas, collaborative workspaces, and creative gathering spaces designed to support both focused work and team collaboration.

While much of the role involves desk-based editorial work, team members may occasionally assist with production-related activities, equipment movement, or on-set support as needed.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.