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Freelance Closed Captioning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Closed Captioning Editor (freelance) Overview Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG) is seeking an Closed Captioning Editor to join post-production. This role will be responsible for managing and ...

... closed-captioning tools * Experience managing multiple projects, schedules, and deliverables, with the ability to flag at-risk milestones early * Strong vendor/freelancer coordination skills ...

Freelance Closed Captioning information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance closed captioning jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance closed captioning in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Closed Captioner, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Closed Captioner, you need excellent listening skills, fast and accurate typing ability, and a strong command of grammar and spelling, often supported by familiarity with captioning guidelines. Experience with captioning software such as EZTitles, CaptionMaker, or similar tools, along with knowledge of file formats and video editing basics, is typically required. Attention to detail, time management, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality, accessible captions that meet client deadlines and legal standards.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance closed captioners, and how can they be managed?

Freelance closed captioners often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, varying audio quality, and the need to accurately caption specialized terminology or multiple speakers. Managing these challenges requires strong time management skills, familiarity with captioning software, and ongoing learning to stay updated on industry standards. Building a network with other captioners and seeking feedback can also help improve accuracy and efficiency. Setting realistic expectations with clients and maintaining clear communication are key to a successful freelance captioning career.

What is freelance closed captioning?

Freelance closed captioning involves working independently to create accurate, time-synchronized captions for video content, such as TV shows, movies, online videos, and live broadcasts. Professionals in this field transcribe spoken dialogue, sound effects, and other relevant audio cues to ensure accessibility for deaf or hard-of-hearing viewers. Freelancers can work for various clients, including production companies, streaming platforms, or third-party captioning services, and often have the flexibility to set their own schedules. Strong language skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with captioning software are essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Freelance Closed Captioning vs Freelance Transcription?

AspectFreelance Closed CaptioningFreelance Transcription
CredentialsAudio/video editing skills, basic captioning software knowledgeStrong listening, typing, and language skills
Work EnvironmentVideo editing platforms, captioning softwareAudio recordings, text editors
Industry UsageMedia, entertainment, educationLegal, medical, general transcription
Search IntentCaptioning services, freelance captioner jobsTranscription services, freelance transcriber jobs

While both roles involve converting audio to text, Freelance Closed Captioning focuses on creating synchronized captions for videos, requiring familiarity with captioning standards and software. Freelance Transcription involves converting audio recordings into written text without synchronization, often for different industries. Understanding these differences helps freelancers target the right opportunities and develop relevant skills.

More about Freelance Closed Captioning jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Closed Captioning jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Closed Captioning job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Closed Captioning jobs? The most popular types of Closed Captioning jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Closed Captioning jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Closed Captioning jobs include:
Closed Captioning Editor (freelance)

Closed Captioning Editor (freelance)

Hearst

Glendale, CA

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 4 days ago


Hearst rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 67 rated media


Job description

Closed Captioning Editor (freelance)

Overview

Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG) is seeking an Closed Captioning Editor to join post-production. This role will be responsible for managing and prepping the delivery of all final episodes to the appropriate network.

The Closed Captioning Editor position is based in our Glendale office and reports to the EP/Head of Post-Production.

Responsibilities

  • Closed caption all episodes

  • Exporting final delivery file

  • Final Quality control check of the delivery file

Qualifications

  • Basic knowledge of Adobe Premiere is a must

  • Knowledge of Telestream Stanza is strongly preferred.

  • Basic understanding of non-linear workflows

  • Ability to perform under strict deadlines

  • Strong command of the English language and exceptional grammar and vocabulary skills

  • Strong attention to detail

  • Excellent time management and interpersonal skills

Experience and Education

  • 6 months of experience as a closed captioning editor or transcriptionist

  • Related experience and/or training considered as well as a combination of education and experience.

  • HMPG is a proud supporter of military veterans. Related military training and experience will be considered.

The salary for this role is $20 - $22 per hour. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as transferable skills, work experience, business needs, market demands and conditions, and other factors permitted by law. The base pay is subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Values In Action

At Hearst Television we tell stories every day. Stories about people of all cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and identities. That's why, behind the scenes, we believe in being an organization as diverse and varied as the audience we reach, ensuring that the content we create is more compassionate, and more representative of the communities we serve.

Benefits

Eligible employees will have access to enroll in health coverage through our partnership with Entertainment Partners' EP Cares program.

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Emotional Wellness Support

  • Additional benefits to meet your and your family's needs

About Company 

Hearst Media Production Group (HMPG), a business unit of Hearst Television, is an independent producer and distributor of original programming for TV stations, broadcast and cable networks and streaming services. HMPG produces hundreds of hours of Emmy Award-winning programming annually across linear, streaming, digital and social media platforms for domestic and international distribution in 100 countries. Its popular weekly educational/informational (E/I) programming blocks air weekends nationwide including "Weekend Adventure," on ABC stations; "CBS WKND," on the CBS Network; "The More You Know," on the NBC Network; "One Magnificent Morning," on the CW Network; "Mi Telemundo" on the Telemundo Network and "Go Time" on independent stations. HMPG also produces and/or distributes a diverse slate of other programming and content including the company's dedicated FAST channels Xplore, The Jack Hanna Channel, Rovr Pets, and Lucky Dog Channel, available on some of the most popular smart TVs and streaming platforms. HMPG has offices in New York, Los Angeles, and Charlotte. HMPG is represented by United Talent Agency.


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