Evaluate high-resolution video and stills at the pixel level. Identify compression artifacts, noise ... VFX Supervisor , Rendering Supervisor , Lighting Supervisor , Colorist , Director of Photography ...
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Evaluate high-resolution video and stills at the pixel level. Identify compression artifacts, noise ... VFX Supervisor , Rendering Supervisor , Lighting Supervisor , Colorist , Director of Photography ...
Evaluate high-resolution video and stills at the pixel level . Identify compression artifacts ... Visual Effects (VFX) Supervisor , Rendering Supervisor , Lighting Supervisor , Colorist , Director ...
Quick apply
Evaluate high-resolution video and stills at the pixel level . Identify compression artifacts ... Visual Effects (VFX) Supervisor , Rendering Supervisor , Lighting Supervisor , Colorist , Director ...
About Stampede Studios Stampede Studios offers a true 360° agency experience, specializing in Creative Marketing, Content and Post-Production Finishing. We are a diverse team of passionate ...
About Stampede Studios Stampede Studios offers a true 360° agency experience, specializing in Creative Marketing, Content and Post-Production Finishing. We are a diverse team of passionate ...
Video Colorist information
See California salary details
$11.39 - $13.80
13% of jobs
$13.80 - $16.22
9% of jobs
$16.72 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$16.22 - $18.63
18% of jobs
The median wage is $20.24 / hr.
$18.63 - $21.05
16% of jobs
$21.05 - $23.47
11% of jobs
$23.47 - $25.88
4% of jobs
$25.88 - $28.30
3% of jobs
$28.90 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$28.30 - $30.71
6% of jobs
$30.71 - $33.13
14% of jobs
$33.13 - $35.54
5% of jobs
$35.54 - $37.96
1% of jobs
$11
$23
$37
How much do video colorist jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for video colorist in California is $23.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does a video colorist do?
A Video Colorist is responsible for adjusting and enhancing the color, tone, and mood of a video to achieve a specific artistic or cinematic look. They work with color grading software like DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere Pro to balance colors, correct exposure, and create a cohesive visual style. Colorists collaborate closely with directors, cinematographers, and editors to maintain consistency and enhance storytelling. Their work is essential in films, TV shows, commercials, and online content to create a polished final product.
What does a typical day look like for a video colorist and who do they usually collaborate with?
A typical day for a Video Colorist involves reviewing footage, performing color grading and correction tasks, and ensuring consistency and visual appeal throughout the project. Video Colorists work closely with directors, cinematographers, and editors to interpret creative briefs and achieve the desired mood or style. Collaboration is key, as they often participate in review sessions to implement client feedback and finalize deliverables. The role may also involve managing file formats, maintaining project organization, and staying up-to-date with emerging post-production technologies. This team-oriented environment makes communication skills and a collaborative mindset essential for success.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a video colorist, and why are they important?
A Video Colorist needs a strong understanding of color theory, digital imaging, and post-production workflows, often requiring experience in film, television, or digital video projects. Proficiency with professional color grading software such as DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Baselight is essential, and some positions may seek certification in these tools. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating with directors, editors, and cinematographers. These skills and qualities are crucial to delivering visually compelling content that aligns with the creative vision of a project and meets technical standards.
How do you become a video colorist?
To become a video colorist, you typically need a strong understanding of color theory, proficiency in color grading software such as DaVinci Resolve or Adobe Premiere, and a background in video editing or cinematography. Gaining experience through internships, building a portfolio, and obtaining relevant certifications can also help establish credibility in the field.
How much do video colorists make?
Video colorists typically earn between $40,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level colorists may start at lower salaries, while experienced professionals working on high-profile projects or with advanced skills in color grading software can earn higher wages.
What are the most commonly searched types of Video Colorist jobs in California?
The most popular types of Video Colorist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Video Colorist jobs in California?
For Video Colorist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Video Colorist jobs in California look for?
The top searched job categories for Video Colorist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Video Colorist jobs?
Cities in California with the most Video Colorist job openings:
$90/hr
Full-time
Posted 11 days ago
Job description
About the job
Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.
Position: Visual Quality Expert (Film, VFX & Animation)
Type: Contract
Compensation: $60–$90/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 20 hours/week
Role Responsibilities
- Evaluate high-resolution video and stills at the pixel level. Identify compression artifacts, noise, aliasing, banding, grain-structure inconsistency, and over- or under-sharpening.
- Apply an uncompromising focus on intricate details. Flag outputs diverging from professional image-quality standards.
- Design and refine evaluation templates and rating guidelines. Ensure consistent application of visual-quality standards, including edge cases.
- Translate complex visual details into clear, precise descriptive language. Capture these in data captions and evaluation templates.
- Generate visual samples for targeted testing and side-by-side comparison.
- Collaborate with subject matter experts and program leads. Maintain visual consistency across sequences and reviewers.
Qualifications
Must-Have
- 5+ years of professional experience in high-end visual evaluation across film, VFX, animation, or professional photography.
- Direct professional experience in at least one discipline: VFX Supervisor, Rendering Supervisor, Lighting Supervisor, Colorist, Director of Photography, Effects Artist, High-End Photographer, Director, Digital Projectionist.
- Training from a university or program with a highly respected film, visual effects, or digital media program.
- Reliable access to a 4K-resolution monitor or display.
- Familiarity with AI tools and workflows. Ability to generate visual samples for testing and comparison.
- Ability to engage reliably for 20 hours per week. Working hours overlap the PST to EST window.
- Fluent in English. Exceptional ability to translate complex visual details into clear, precise descriptive language.
Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)
- Upload resume
- AI interview based on your resume
- Submit form
Resources & Support
- For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
- For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com
PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.