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Trailer Editor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Trailer Editor information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$28

$46

How much do trailer editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for trailer editor in Virginia is $28.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $31.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Trailer Editor Do?

As a trailer editor, you cut and edit film footage to create a preview trailer for a movie. In this role, you may help decide which scene or scenes to highlight in the trailer and work to fulfill a specific advertising or project goal. For example, action movies often have trailers that portray the movie as fast and exciting, while mystery films may highlight a question while avoiding any information about the answer. Trailer editors often work with other advertising staff to ensure a consistent marketing campaign across all channels. This job frequently involves modifying audio and video and may require coordinating with a special effects studio.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior trailer editors, post-production supervisors, or creative directors can earn $150,000 or more annually. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills in editing software like Avid or Adobe Premiere, and often involve leadership responsibilities in large projects or companies.

What is the difference between Trailer Editor vs Video Editor?

AspectTrailer EditorVideo Editor
CredentialsTypically requires editing experience, possibly film or media-related certificationsRequires general editing skills, often with a broader range of software knowledge
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in film, TV, or advertising industries focusing on trailersIn various industries including corporate, entertainment, social media
Industry UsageCommonly used in entertainment and advertising for promotional contentUsed across multiple sectors for diverse video projects

While both roles involve editing videos, a Trailer Editor specializes in creating promotional trailers for films, TV shows, or commercials, focusing on capturing audience interest. A Video Editor has a broader scope, working on various types of video content across industries. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a trailer editor?

To become a trailer editor, gain experience in video editing by working with editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Avid Media Composer. Develop skills in storytelling, pacing, and visual effects, and build a portfolio of trailer projects; some roles may require a background in film or media production. Internships or entry-level positions in editing can provide valuable industry experience.

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

To thrive as a Trailer Editor, strong video editing skills, a creative eye for storytelling, and proficiency with editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro are essential, often supported by a degree in film, media, or a related field. Familiarity with sound design, motion graphics, and industry-standard tools like After Effects is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and the ability to interpret creative briefs make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure engaging, high-quality trailers that effectively capture audience attention and convey the intended message under tight deadlines.

What is a Trailer Editor?

A Trailer Editor is a professional responsible for creating captivating trailers for films, TV shows, video games, or other visual media. They skillfully select and arrange footage, sound, and music to craft a compelling preview that attracts audiences and conveys the essence of the full production. Trailer Editors work closely with directors, producers, and marketing teams to ensure the trailer aligns with the project's vision and promotional goals. Their work requires strong storytelling abilities, technical editing skills, and creativity under tight deadlines.

How much money do trailer editors make?

Trailer editors typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Senior or highly skilled editors working in major markets can earn higher salaries, especially if they have expertise in editing software like Adobe Premiere or Avid Media Composer.

What are some typical challenges faced by trailer editors when working with limited source material?

Trailer editors often encounter the challenge of crafting a compelling narrative from incomplete or unfinished footage, especially when working on projects that are still in post-production. This requires creativity in storytelling and the ability to repurpose available scenes to evoke emotion and excitement without revealing spoilers. Close collaboration with directors, producers, and marketing teams is essential to ensure the trailer aligns with the film’s tone and promotional strategy. Flexibility and strong communication skills are crucial for addressing last-minute changes and meeting tight deadlines.

What does a trailer editor do?

A trailer editor is responsible for assembling and editing video footage to create promotional trailers for films, TV shows, or other media. They select key scenes, add sound and visual effects, and work with editing software to produce a compelling preview that attracts audiences. Strong editing skills and knowledge of storytelling are essential in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Trailer Editor jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Trailer Editor jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Trailer Editor job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,296 per year, or $28.5 per hour.
Videographer - Video Services Specialist

Videographer - Video Services Specialist

PCI Productions LLC

Fort Eustis, VA

$24.51/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

The Video Services Specialist III will provide video service, including production at all phases of video production and live switching. This position supports the Army and will be 100% on -site. The Video Services Specialist III will report to the Project Manager.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide video services, including all phases of video production from gaffer to grip to audio, and perform as a videographer at multiple events
  • Perform setup and teardown of the production site, including running cable and moving road cases and props.
  • Create images for a variety of genres like documentaries, short and long-form films, live television, etc.
  • Oversee smaller projects with or without supervision thereby fulfilling a need to support more modest productions.
  • Assist on all processes from the ingesting of footage to the output of all products for distribution.
  • Consult with the customer to clarify video products and services are available to meet the customers’ video needs.
  • Document materials and hours worked for each project.
  • Handle minor administrative duties, such as answering phones and assisting customers with request forms.
  • Backup all final files of all images created that allow additions, changes, corrections, modifications, layers, and rapid updates.
  • Complete company and project-related training requirements as required.
  • Record labor hours daily in the company’s timekeeping system as required.
  • Travel and perform duties at CONUS-wide locations up to 30%.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications: (To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.)
  • High school diploma or GED is required.
  • Experience with various camera systems and color-correcting tools available to the Enterprise Multimedia Center is required for consideration in this position.
  • 5+ years of video editing experience.
  • Must pass the customer’s security requirements.
  • Background check required and must have the ability to obtain and maintain a secret clearance within 6 months of hire.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Expert level knowledge in VI and processes knowledge of invention, imagination, and originality.
  • Proven history of the basic methods and techniques required of a skilled cinematographer.
  • Must possess expert competency in file formats from the various camera systems and must continue to keep pace with advancements in technology during employment.
  • Must have the ability to hold telescopic boom mic assembly overhead during filming.
  • Must be able to move equipment to and from the transport trailer and set up the set for filming.
  • Have the technical aptitude and leadership skills equivalent to a post-production house or motion picture complex.
  • High degree of creativity to help the creative staff with their manipulation of content both visually and aurally.
  • Highly attuned to software and hardware upgrades.
  • Possess the technical aptitude and background in the practical application of scripting, directing, shooting, lighting, and audio and editing in video production.
  • Possess basic computer skills and be able to perform, but not limited to, the following tasks: operate a computer, use email daily, record time and materials in VIOS, conduct online research, create, and use Excel spreadsheets, create, and process travel expense reports, and conduct mandatory/annual online training as required.
  • Ability to be mentored for higher levels of responsibility.
  • Ability to carry and operate a Steadicam rig, camera, and associated battery pack for up to 1 hour at a time, both indoors and outdoors.
  • Ability to provide support services outside of normal duty hours.
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, or holidays as requested.
  • Ability to travel and perform duties at CONUS-wide locations up to 30%.

PCI Federal (PCIF) and its subsidiaries are an equal-opportunity employer. PCIF does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, national origin, religion, marital status, sexual orientation or identity, Veterans or Disability status.

Preference may be extended to qualified Native American Indian candidates in accordance with applicable federal law.