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Freelance Captioning Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Photo Editing Coordinator

Burbank, CA · On-site

$28.88 - $33.33/hr

... captioning, and final uploading of finished assets to a centralized database. Required ... freelancers - which sets us apart in the industries we serve. About Solomon Page Founded in 1990 ...

While responsible for managing a team of producers, editors, and freelancers, the Senior Social ... captioning, and production processes * Extensive experience leading live-event social coverage and ...

Freelance Captioning information

See California salary details

$14

$47

$130

How much do freelance captioning jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance captioning in California is $47.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.94 and $60.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance captioning job?

A Freelance Captioning job involves creating accurate, timed text that appears on videos, films, or live broadcasts to help viewers understand the audio. Captioners transcribe spoken words, sound effects, and other relevant audio cues into readable text. Freelancers in this field work on a per-project basis for clients such as media companies, educational institutions, or online content creators. This job requires strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with captioning software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in freelance captioning?

To thrive as a Freelance Captioner, excellent listening abilities, fast and accurate typing skills, and strong command of written English are essential, often complemented by relevant experience or training in transcription or captioning. Familiarity with captioning software such as EZTitles, CaptionMaker, or similar platforms, as well as knowledge of industry standards like ADA compliance, is typical. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to self-motivate are key soft skills for managing independent workloads and deadlines. These abilities ensure high-quality, accessible captions, timely delivery, and client satisfaction in a competitive freelance market.

What are the typical challenges freelance captioners face, and how can they be managed?

Freelance captioners often navigate tight deadlines, audio quality issues, and varying client requirements, which can be challenging, especially with inconsistent work volumes. To manage these, it's important to maintain a flexible schedule, continuously improve your technical skills, and communicate clearly with clients regarding project expectations. Using reliable captioning tools and developing a streamlined workflow can help maintain accuracy and efficiency. Building a network of regular clients and seeking feedback can also support steady assignments and professional growth.

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

The most popular types of Captioning jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Captioning jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Captioning jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Captioning jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Captioning job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Captioning job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,931 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Join Keywords Talent Community - Freelance Subtitle Translator/QC, SDH/CC

Keywords Studios

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 25 days ago


Keywords Studios rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 78 rated media


Job description

Join the Keywords Studios Talent Community - Subtitle Translation/Localization Experts
Keywords Studios is the world's leading provider of technical and creative services for the video games and entertainment industries. With a global footprint of over 70 studios across 26 countries, we partner with the most iconic developers, publishers, and content creators - including Ubisoft, Electronic Arts, Riot Games, Bandai Namco, Netflix, and many more.
*Please note that this is NOT an official job post - it's a portal for anyone who's interested in pursuing freelance subtitling opportunities at Keywords to leave their contact and application for future consideration.
We're Growing Our Global Network of Subtitle & Localization Specialists
We are always looking to connect with talented professionals for the following roles:
  • Subtitle Translators - Experts in adapting scripts and dialogue with cultural nuance and accuracy
  • QCers - Meticulous reviewers ensuring flawless, audience-ready subtitles
  • SDH (Subtitles for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing) Linguists - Specialists in accessible and inclusive subtitle creation
  • Template Linguists - Professionals crafting high-quality subtitle templates for global localization

If you would like to pursue freelance translation opportunities with us, please upload your CV in English through this job post(*non-English CV won't be considered), providing detailed information regarding your subtitling experience.
Once we have a relevant position available, we will reach out to you if your experience fits the bill.
Requirements
  • Native proficiency of the target language.
  • Strong command of the source language.
  • Experience in at least one of the following areas of the entertainment industry: localization QC, audiovisual translation and subtitling.
  • Experience with subtitle editing software and web/cloud technology.
  • Deep understanding of closed captioning and subtitling, and their common failures and technical challenges.
  • Solid understanding of nuances of subtitle and dub translations.
  • Working knowledge of cultural differences and best practices for subtitles and dub audio creation.
  • University degree or equivalent professional experience in the translation field.
  • Ability to quickly adapt to workflow/process changes and updates.
  • Great attention to detail, organization, problem-solving, analytical and multitasking skills.

**Please note: Signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) is required prior to starting the recruitment process.
**Due to the high volume of applications, we regret that we are only able to respond to candidates who meet the above requirements.
Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Work on popular titles across film, TV, streaming, games and much more.
  • Early access to unreleased content
  • Flexible project volume
  • 100% remote work
  • Set your own schedule
  • Constructive feedback and support

Our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Commitment:Keywords Studios is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, ethnicity, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. If you require any adjustments during the process please let us know in your application. We are committed to creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion, respect and integrity, customer focus, and innovation. We especially welcome applications from candidates of underrepresented groups in the industry.
PERSONAL DATA PROTECTION POLICY
By providing your information in this application, you understand that we will collect and process your information in accordance with our Applicant Privacy Notice. For more information, please see our Applicant Privacy Notice at https://www.keywordsstudios.com/en/applicant-privacy-notice.
Role Information: EN
Studio: Keywords Studios
Area of Work: Media & Entertainment
Service: Media & Entertainment
Employment Type: Freelance
Working Pattern: Remote

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About Keywords Studios

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Whatever the scale of your project, whatever the time frame, whatever your location: Keywords is here for you, bringing our network of 13,000+ people and 70+ studios together to deliver the unified solutions you need. We offer everything necessary to ensure your project achieves its full potential and that strategic opportunities are turned into long-term growth. The games industry is complex and fast-moving. Working with Keywords allows you to remain lean and agile, and to remain focused on creating the world’s most immersive playing experiences. Our network of studios brings best-in-class experience, expertise, technology and capacity across the full development, release and player-support lifecycle.

Industry

Arts, entertainment, and recreation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Burbank, CA, US

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