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Lead Video Editor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100 - $110K/hr

Lead the editing process from rough cuts to polished final exports, ensuring a seamless narrative, high engagement, and alignment with the channel's style. * Creative Leadership: Act as a key ...

Lead the editing process from rough cuts to polished final exports, ensuring a seamless narrative, high engagement, and alignment with the channel's style. * Creative Leadership: Act as a key ...

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$100 - $110K/hr

Lead the editing process from rough cuts to polished final exports, ensuring a seamless narrative, high engagement, and alignment with the channel's style. * Creative Leadership: Act as a key ...

Senior Video Editor

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$53 - $68/hr

A globally leading consumer device company based in Sunnyvale, CA is looking for Video Editor ... Follow creative direction and incorporate feedback from the post-production lead, engineers, and ...

We're currently looking for a Video Editor (AI-Forward) who's excellent at the craft and fired up ... We also know AI only works well with humans in the lead, and that everything good still comes back ...

Video Editor

Belmont, CA · On-site

$250/day

We're currently looking for a Video Editor (AI-Forward) who's excellent at the craft and fired up ... We also know AI only works well with humans in the lead, and that everything good still comes back ...

We're looking for a cinematographer/DP + video editor who owns a story from pre- to post-production ... You'll have the autonomy to lead major initiatives and define the future of video at Samsara. * Y ...

Lead Editors bridge the gap between strategic objectives and visual execution, transforming ... Specializing in data-driven video content tailored for social media platforms, TubeScience ...

Lead Editors bridge the gap between strategic objectives and visual execution, transforming ... Specializing in data-driven video content tailored for social media platforms, TubeScience ...

Lead Editors bridge the gap between strategic objectives and visual execution, transforming ... Specializing in data-driven video content tailored for social media platforms, TubeScience ...

We're looking for a cinematographer/DP + video editor who owns a story from pre- to post-production ... Lead productions end to end, and solve ambiguous problems that carry real weight across multiple ...

Process and ingest video ref and audio capture from the mocap stage * Create first pass edits based ... Work with Editorial Lead and Cinematic Supervisor to iterate on camera edits. Relay feedback to ...

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Lead Video Editor information

See California salary details

$11

$31

$56

How much do lead video editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead video editor in California is $31.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $39.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Lead Video Editor vs Video Editor?

AspectLead Video EditorVideo Editor
ResponsibilitiesOversees editing projects, manages editing team, ensures quality standardsPerforms editing tasks, edits footage, follows director’s or producer’s instructions
CredentialsTypically requires experience in editing, strong portfolio, sometimes leadership skillsEntry to mid-level experience, portfolio, proficiency in editing software
Work EnvironmentCollaborates with producers, directors, and clients in studio or post-production facilitiesWorks primarily in editing suites or remotely, often independently

The main difference between a Lead Video Editor and a Video Editor lies in their responsibilities and experience level. The Lead Video Editor manages editing projects and teams, while the Video Editor focuses on executing editing tasks. Both roles require strong editing skills, but the Lead typically has more leadership and project management duties.

What is a lead video editor?

A Lead Video Editor is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the video editing process, managing a team of editors, and ensuring that the final video content meets creative, technical, and client standards. They collaborate closely with directors, producers, and other stakeholders to interpret project goals, provide creative input, and maintain consistency in style and quality. In addition to hands-on editing work, they often supervise workflows, mentor junior editors, and troubleshoot technical issues. Their expertise helps guide the overall vision of a project from raw footage to polished final product.

How does a lead video editor typically collaborate with other creative team members during a project?

As a Lead Video Editor, you’ll work closely with directors, producers, motion graphic designers, and sound engineers throughout the editing process. Collaboration often begins in the pre-production phase, discussing the project's vision and requirements, and continues through feedback sessions and revisions. You’ll coordinate workflows, implement creative notes, and ensure that the final edit aligns with the overall project goals. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential, as you’ll often manage multiple editors and delegate tasks to meet tight deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead video editor?

To thrive as a Lead Video Editor, you need advanced video editing skills, a solid understanding of visual storytelling, and a degree or relevant experience in film, media, or a related field. Mastery of editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and motion graphics programs like After Effects is typically required. Strong leadership, creative collaboration, and effective communication skills help manage teams and realize a shared creative vision. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality content on deadline and ensuring consistency across projects.
What job categories do people searching Lead Video Editor jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Video Editor jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Lead Video Editor jobs? Cities in California with the most Lead Video Editor job openings:
Infographic showing various Lead Video Editor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,867 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Video Editor

Airrack

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$100 - $110K/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

ABOUT AIRRACK

Airrack is a tight-knit team that pulls off ambitious, innovative YouTube videos that get millions of views. We’re creative, gritty, and passionate about making content no one else dares to. We work hard, have a great time doing it, and we’re always pushing to see how far digital storytelling can go!

THE ROLE

We are seeking a Video Editor to take a role in shaping the creative direction and execution of our videos. This individual will bring extensive experience editing YouTube content that has garnered hundreds of millions of views, a deep understanding of YouTube's algorithm and trends, and the ability to thrive under tight deadlines.

This is not just a technical editing role—you will be a key player in the room, responsible for setting the tone, pacing, and energy of our content to maintain and elevate the channel's brand identity.
HOW TO APPLY

Watch this video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PtWE5LcyTf8

Requirements

Key Responsibilities

  • Video Editing: Lead the editing process from rough cuts to polished final exports, ensuring a seamless narrative, high engagement, and alignment with the channel's style.
  • Creative Leadership: Act as a key creative voice during pre-production and post-production, influencing storytelling decisions, pacing, and content strategy.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with producers and other team members to execute the vision of each project.
  • Innovation: Stay on top of trends, editing techniques, and YouTube best practices to keep the channel fresh and competitive.
  • Feedback & Mentorship: Provide constructive feedback to junior editors and assist in developing their skills.
  • Long Hours & High Stakes: Be prepared to work extended hours as needed to meet deadlines, especially during high-impact content launches.

Qualifications

  • Experience: Minimum of 5+ years editing YouTube content, with proven success in creating videos that have achieved hundreds of millions of views.
  • Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and other relevant editing tools.
  • Storytelling Skills: A deep understanding of pacing, narrative structure, and emotional engagement.
  • Creative Vision: Strong visual storytelling instincts with a keen eye for detail and pacing tailored for the YouTube platform.
  • Leadership: Ability to take charge in a high-pressure environment, inspire the team, and drive projects to completion.
  • YouTube Expertise: In-depth knowledge of YouTube's algorithm, audience retention strategies, and platform trends.
  • Portfolio: A robust portfolio showcasing standout YouTube projects with substantial reach and engagement.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in frenetic lifestyle and prank content
  • Familiarity with analytics tools to understand and optimize content performance.
  • Previous experience managing a team of editors.

Benefits

Salary: $100-$110k DOE with performance bonuses available. Full health benefits offered as well.

Why Join Us?

  • Be part of a groundbreaking team creating content that millions of viewers love.
  • Opportunity to lead and innovate in a highly competitive digital media space.
  • Competitive salary, benefits, and potential for growth within the organization.