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Independent Contractor Video Editor Jobs in Chicago, IL

McDonagh Demolition

Video Editor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$40 - $69/hr

... video content. You may be working on short-form social media videos, YouTube content ... Whether you're an experienced editor who can independently manage complex projects or an aspiring ...

New

Mcdonagh demolition

Video Editor

Chicago, IL · Remote

$34 - $63/hr

... video content. You may be working on short-form social media videos, YouTube content ... Whether you're an experienced editor who can independently manage complex projects or an aspiring ...

New

Kentech Consulting Inc

VIDEO EDITOR: 1099

Chicago, IL · Remote

We are looking for a talented and creative Video Editor to elevate our content across YouTube and ... Remote contractor role, open to international candidates. * Project-based compensation with ...

Kentech Consulting, Inc.

VIDEO EDITOR: 1099

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

We are looking for a talented and creative Video Editor to elevate our content across YouTube and ... Contract Details and Compensation • Remote contractor role, open to international candidates. • ...

American Academy of Ped

Video Producer & Editor

Itasca, IL · On-site

$82K - $86K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

Video Producer and Editor (Grant Funded) REPORTING RELATIONSHIP: Senior Producer and Editor (Grant ... Must think creatively, pay close attention to detail, take initiative, work both independently and ...

Fox

News Editor/Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$48.67/hr

The ability to shoot video is a plus but not required, along with a willingness to learn other ... Capable of taking direction, working independently, and troubleshooting technical issues.

Kdfw Fox 4

News Editor/Technician

Chicago, IL

$48.67/hr

The ability to shoot video is a plus but not required, along with a willingness to learn other ... Capable of taking direction, working independently, and troubleshooting technical issues.

Chicago Public Media

AM Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$90K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective ... The AM Editor will work with anchors, producers, reporters, and other editors to set the tone for ...

Chicago Public Media

AM Editor

Chicago, IL

$90K - $100K/yr

We believe independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy and that access to objective ... The AM Editor will work with anchors, producers, reporters, and other editors to set the tone for ...

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Independent Contractor Video Editor information

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How much do independent contractor video editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor video editor in Chicago, IL is $32.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.02 and $40.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor video editor?

Independent contractor video editors are professionals who are hired on a freelance or contract basis to edit video content for clients. Unlike full-time employees, they typically work for multiple clients and handle their own business operations, such as invoicing and taxes. Their responsibilities often include assembling raw footage, adding effects, syncing audio, and producing polished final videos according to client specifications. Independent contractors have the flexibility to choose their projects and may work remotely or on-site. This role requires strong technical skills, creativity, and the ability to meet deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor video editor?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Video Editor, you need expert proficiency in video editing, storytelling, and familiarity with industry-standard software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, often supported by a portfolio of past work. Mastery of technical tools such as color grading software, motion graphics applications, and collaborative platforms like Frame.io is commonly expected. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you collaborate with clients and deliver projects on deadline. These skills ensure you consistently produce high-quality content that meets client expectations and stands out in a competitive freelance market.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor video editors, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor video editors often face challenges such as managing fluctuating workloads, meeting tight deadlines, and aligning with diverse client expectations. Successfully handling these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, effective communication with clients, and the ability to quickly adapt to different project styles and requirements. Building a network of repeat clients and setting clear contracts can help provide stability, while staying up-to-date with the latest editing software ensures continued competitiveness in the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Independent Contractor Video Editor job openings:

Independent Contractor Video Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Video Editor job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,709 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Video Editor

McDonagh Demolition

Chicago, IL • Remote

$40 - $69/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Type: Full-Time / Part-Time
Location: Remote
Experience Level: Entry-Level, Mid-Level, or Senior
Work Arrangement: 100% Remote

About the Role

We’re looking for talented and motivated Video Editors to join our remote team. This opportunity is open to entry-level, mid-level, and senior editors who are passionate about creating engaging, high-quality video content.

You may be working on short-form social media videos, YouTube content, advertisements, promotional videos, branded content, educational videos, or other digital media projects.

We value creativity, attention to detail, reliability, and a willingness to learn. Whether you’re an experienced editor who can independently manage complex projects or an aspiring editor looking to build your professional portfolio, we’d love to hear from you.

What You’ll Do
Edit video content for social media, YouTube, marketing, advertising, and other digital platforms.
Organize and manage video footage, audio, graphics, and project files.
Create engaging cuts, transitions, pacing, captions, and visual effects.
Add music, sound effects, graphics, text, subtitles, and other elements as needed.
Follow creative briefs, brand guidelines, and project requirements.
Collaborate remotely with producers, creators, designers, and other team members.
Review edits and make revisions based on feedback.
Maintain consistent quality, formatting, and attention to detail.
Meet agreed-upon deadlines and communicate proactively about project status.
What We’re Looking For

We welcome applicants at all experience levels.

Entry-Level Candidates
Basic understanding of video editing principles.
Familiarity with at least one editing program.
Strong interest in developing video editing skills.
Ability to follow instructions and learn quickly.
A portfolio, school project, personal project, or sample edit is helpful but not required.
Mid-Level Candidates
Previous experience editing professional, freelance, personal, or content-creator projects.
Strong understanding of pacing, storytelling, audio, transitions, captions, and visual composition.
Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
Senior Candidates
Strong professional video editing experience.
Ability to take ownership of projects from raw footage through final delivery.
Advanced understanding of storytelling, pacing, color, audio, motion graphics, and visual effects.
Ability to provide creative input and help maintain or improve editing standards.
Preferred Editing Software

Experience with one or more of the following is a plus:

Adobe Premiere Pro
DaVinci Resolve
Final Cut Pro
Adobe After Effects
CapCut
Other professional or consumer video-editing software

You do not need experience with every program listed above.

What Makes Someone Successful in This Role
Strong attention to detail
Good sense of timing and visual storytelling
Creativity and willingness to experiment
Ability to receive and apply feedback
Dependability and strong communication
Ability to work independently in a remote environment
Comfortable learning new tools and workflows
Commitment to meeting deadlines
Why Join Us?
Fully remote work
Flexible working environment
Opportunity to work on a variety of video projects
Growth opportunities for editors at different experience levels
Collaborative remote team
Opportunity to build your portfolio and gain professional experience
Competitive compensation based on experience, skills, and project scope