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Subtitle Captioning Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Subtitle Captioning information

See salary details

$36K

$47.9K

$64.5K

How much do subtitle captioning jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for subtitle captioning in the United States is $47,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by subtitle captioning professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Subtitle captioning professionals often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, maintaining accuracy with fast-paced dialogue, and localizing idiomatic expressions or cultural references. To address these, strong time management skills and familiarity with captioning software are essential, as well as ongoing communication with production teams to clarify unclear audio or context. Additionally, collaborating closely with translators and editors can help ensure subtitles are both accurate and culturally appropriate.

What is subtitle captioning?

Subtitle captioning is the process of transcribing spoken dialogue, sound effects, and relevant audio information into text that appears on screen during video content. This helps viewers understand the audio, particularly those who are deaf or hard of hearing or watching in a different language. Subtitle captioners listen to audio tracks and create accurate, synchronized captions that match the timing of the speech and sounds in the video. The captions must be readable, concise, and properly timed to ensure a smooth viewing experience.

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

To thrive as a Subtitle Captioner, you need excellent grammar, spelling, and listening skills, often supported by proficiency in multiple languages or formal training in linguistics or translation. Familiarity with captioning software (such as EZTitles or Aegisub), time-coding systems, and accessibility standards is typically required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and strong time management are important soft skills for meeting tight deadlines and ensuring accuracy. These skills ensure that subtitles are clear, timely, and accessible, which is crucial for effective communication and audience engagement.

What is the difference between Subtitle Captioning vs Transcriptionist?

AspectSubtitle CaptioningTranscriptionist
Required CredentialsTyping skills, language proficiency, sometimes captioning software trainingTyping skills, language proficiency, transcription software knowledge
Work EnvironmentMedia companies, broadcasting, online streaming platformsLegal, medical, general transcription services
Employer & Industry UsageMedia, entertainment, online contentLegal, healthcare, business sectors

Subtitle captioning and transcriptionist roles both require strong typing and language skills. However, subtitle captioning focuses on creating timed captions for videos in media and entertainment industries, while transcriptionists convert audio recordings into text for various sectors like legal or medical fields. The roles overlap in skills but differ in application and industry focus.

More about Subtitle Captioning jobs
What cities are hiring for Subtitle Captioning jobs? Cities with the most Subtitle Captioning job openings:
Join Keywords Talent Community - Freelance Subtitle Translator/QC, SDH/CC

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

Keywords Studios

Los Angeles, CA • On-site, Remote

$20.25 - $25.75/hr

Contractor

Posted 24 days ago


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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