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Entry Level Video Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Video Editor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$32

$59

How much do entry level video editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level video editor in Chicago, IL is $32.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.07 and $40.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level video editors, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level video editors often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, learning new software quickly, and balancing creative vision with client or team feedback. It's common to start with repetitive tasks like organizing footage, syncing audio, or creating rough cuts, which helps build foundational skills. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized, communicate clearly with team members, and actively seek feedback to improve your work. Additionally, taking initiative to learn shortcuts and best practices in editing software can increase efficiency and confidence on the job.

How much do beginner video editors make?

Entry-level video editors typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location, skills, and industry. Starting salaries may be lower in some regions or for those without professional experience, but gaining proficiency with editing software like Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro can lead to higher pay as skills improve.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Video Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Video Editor, you need a solid understanding of video editing principles, attention to detail, and proficiency with basic editing techniques, typically supported by a portfolio or relevant coursework. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve is essential, and certifications in these platforms can be advantageous. Creativity, time management, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with team members are standout soft skills. These skills and qualities ensure polished, engaging video content that meets project requirements and deadlines in a fast-paced creative environment.

What Does an Entry-Level Video Editor Do?

As an entry-level video editor, your responsibilities are to aid in recording and editing a film or television broadcast. Your specific duties depend on the type of medium in which you work. If you work in the special effects department, you may edit footage to combine visual effects and live action video. You may also work in the editing suite with the director and cinematographer, helping to edit scenes into a final product. Editors must also be on set to set up recording equipment, lighting, and audio tools.

How to get a job as a video editor with no experience?

Entry level video editors can start by building a portfolio with personal projects or freelance work to demonstrate their skills. Learning industry-standard software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro and gaining basic knowledge of editing techniques can improve job prospects. Internships, online courses, and networking can also help entry-level candidates find opportunities in the field.

Is AI replacing video editors?

AI technology is increasingly used to assist video editors by automating tasks like editing, color correction, and effects, but it does not fully replace the creative and decision-making skills of a human video editor. Entry level video editors can leverage AI tools to improve efficiency, but human oversight remains essential for quality and storytelling. Developing skills in editing software and understanding AI applications can enhance job prospects in this evolving field.

Is video editing still in demand in 2026?

Video editing remains in demand in 2026 as content creation, social media, and digital marketing continue to grow, requiring skilled editors to produce engaging videos. Entry level video editors with proficiency in tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro and a strong portfolio are well-positioned for opportunities in various industries.

What does an entry level video editor do?

An entry level video editor is responsible for assembling raw video footage, selecting usable shots, and editing them together to create a cohesive final product. They often work under the guidance of senior editors or producers, following instructions regarding pacing, transitions, and overall style. Their tasks may also include adding basic effects, titles, and sound, as well as exporting videos in the correct formats. This role is a great way to gain experience with editing software and learn industry standards.
More about Entry Level Video Editor jobs
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Entry Level Video Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Video Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $67,762 per year, or $32.6 per hour.
Part-Time Faculty--Video for Graphic Design

Part-Time Faculty--Video for Graphic Design

Roosevelt University

Chicago, IL • On-site

$3.9K/wk

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Position Rank
Adjunct Instructor
Track
Non-Tenure Track
Position Title
Part-Time Faculty--Video for Graphic Design
Category
Adjunct
Posting Number
T000173
Location
Chicago
Open Date
04/01/2026
Close Date
10/01/2026
Open Until Filled?
Yes
Job Type
Part-Time
Working Hours
Position Summary
Roosevelt University is seeking a skilled and creative Adjunct Instructor to teach an undergraduate video production course designed for Graphic Design majors at our partner university centers: Harper University Center in Palatine, Illinois and McHenry University Center in Woodstock, Illinois.
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of video creation as a visual communication tool, including storytelling, shooting techniques, audio capture, and non-linear editing. The course gives Graphic Design students real-world training on how their work will intersect with professional video production. Each student creates their own graphics package of lower thirds and a full screen graphic.
Course Focus
The course emphasizes practical, hands-on production skills while connecting video techniques to graphic design concepts such as composition, typography, branding, and narrative communication. Students will produce short video projects that integrate design thinking with moving image and sound. Students receive practical experience setting up and producing a video shoot, including lighting and audio, and interviewing a subject.
Responsibilities
  • Teach one or more sections of a video production course for Graphic Design students at Harper University Center (Woodstock, IL) and/or McHenry University Center (Palatine, IL)
  • Introduce students to fundamentals of video storytelling, shot composition, lighting, audio recording, and the roles and responsibilities involved in a full on-location shoot.
  • Teach video editing workflows using industry-standard software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, or similar tools)
  • Guide students through project development from concept and storyboarding to final edit
  • Provide critiques and feedback that integrate design principles and video production
  • Develop assignments and assessments that support course learning outcomes
  • Maintain a supportive and inclusive classroom environment
  • Submit grades and course documentation according to university policies
  • Classes to be taught in-person

Reflecting the ideals of its founders in 1945, Roosevelt University is a private, nonsectarian community of educators, scholars and learners committed to academic, creative and service excellence, who value differences in personal experiences and perspectives; ask difficult questions; and promote mutual understanding, inclusion, social consciousness and action toward social justice. Recognizing that difference broadens perspectives, Roosevelt University seeks and serves a diverse, promising student body from metropolitan Chicago and around the world. We invite you to contribute your talents to our community
Roosevelt University's Graphic Design program emphasizes creative problem-solving, visual communication, and cross-media storytelling. The video course expands students' design practice into motion and time-based media, preparing them for contemporary design environments where video, motion graphics, and digital content are essential.
Roosevelt University is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from candidates who will contribute to a diverse and inclusive academic community.
Entry level compensation rate for teaching one 3-credit course as of Fall 2025 is $3,982.00. Compensation for courses that carry fewer or more than three credits will be prorated down or up accordingly. Entry into the union for any subsequent semesters of employment thereafter is required.
Voluntary benefits such as tuition remission, commuter savings, voluntary retirement contributions, and pet insurance are all made available upon union membership and eligibility.
Title IX Contact Information: Federal Title IX policy requires that all colleges and universities make known the contact information for the person responsible for coordinating its efforts to comply with Title IX regulations. At Roosevelt University, the Title IX Coordinator is Natasha Robinson. Her office is located in the Auditorium Building of the Chicago campus, 430 S. Michigan Avenue, AUD 476B. She can be reached at 312-281-3245 or TitleIX@roosevelt.edu.
Do not contact this email address for inquiries about your job application; if you have questions, you may email hrquestions@roosevelt.edu.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required
Successful applicants will be proficient in industry-standard software Adobe Creative Cloud software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, or similar tools).
Knowledge of and prior experience with the Blackboard Learning Management system is ideal.
Years of Experience Required
Prior teaching experience (at least one year) is preferred but not required
Required Education
Bachelor's Degree
Certification/Licensure Required
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Film, Video Production, Motion Design, Graphic Design, or a closely related field
  • Professional experience in video production, editing, or motion design
  • Demonstrated proficiency with video editing software and digital video workflows
  • Ability to teach foundational concepts of video, sound, and editing to non-film majors

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree (MFA or MA) in Film, Motion Design, Media Arts, Graphic Design, or related discipline
  • Teaching experience at the college or university level
  • Experience working with design students or integrating motion/video into design curricula
  • Familiarity with Adobe Creative Cloud tools commonly used in design programs

Equipment Operated
Desktop computer, laptop, projector, copier
Working Conditions
Normal climate-controlled office environment is provided. Job is largely sedentary, but there is a need to move about the office and buildings frequently. Occasional bending, stooping, lifting, pushing and/or pulling is required (typically less than 10 pounds). May be exposed to loud noise from instrument and voice practice rooms on-site.
Priority Application Instructions
Departmental Contact Information
Glenn Canigiani
gcanigiani@roosevelt.edu

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