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Visual Effects Editor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Smosh

Social Media Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Reformats content to meet the visual, structural, and technical standards of TikTok, Reels, YouTube ... Working knowledge of monday.com, After Effects, Google Drive and Frame.io. * Strong understanding ...

Neros Technologies

Video Editor

Torrance, CA

$130K - $144K/yr

Expert level experience in editing software (Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, After Effects, and a ... Demonstrated experience shaping narrative in visual storytelling * Demonstrated experience owning a ...

Golden Hippo

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$70K - $88K/yr

... visual standards. * Adobe Suite Proficiency ... Possesses advanced skills in Adobe Premiere and After Effects, with additional experience in ...

Golden Hippo

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · Hybrid

$70K - $88K/yr

... visual standards. * Adobe Suite Proficiency ... Possesses advanced skills in Adobe Premiere and After Effects, with additional experience in ...

Golden Hippo

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

$70K - $88K/yr

... visual standards. * Adobe Suite Proficiency ... Possesses advanced skills in Adobe Premiere and After Effects, with additional experience in ...

Neros Technologies

Video Editor

Torrance, CA · On-site

$130K - $144K/yr

Expert level experience in editing software (Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, After Effects, and a ... Demonstrated experience shaping narrative in visual storytelling * Demonstrated experience owning a ...

Peregrine Technologies

Video Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Help evolve Peregrine's visual language, editorial standards, and scalable post-production ... Proficiency in Adobe After Effects and experience creating polished titles, lower thirds, end cards ...

LegalZoom

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA

... visual narratives, and thoughtful use of typography, color, composition, photography, and motion ... Video editing and motion graphics (Premiere Pro, After Effects) * Design and collaboration tools ...

LegalZoom

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA

... visual narratives, and thoughtful use of typography, color, composition, photography, and motion ... Video editing and motion graphics (Premiere Pro, After Effects) * Design and collaboration tools ...

LegalZoom.com, Inc.

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... visual narratives, and thoughtful use of typography, color, composition, photography, and motion ... Video editing and motion graphics (Premiere Pro, After Effects) * Design and collaboration tools ...

LegalZoom

Video Editor

Los Angeles, CA

... visual narratives, and thoughtful use of typography, color, composition, photography, and motion ... Video editing and motion graphics (Premiere Pro, After Effects) * Design and collaboration tools ...

Teamwass

Videographer/Editor

Los Angeles, CA

Drive the storytelling side of our visual identity with compelling short form and long form ... Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere, After Effects) and familiarity with design tools ...

Wasserman Media

Videographer/Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Drive the storytelling side of our visual identity with compelling short form and long form ... Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere, After Effects) and familiarity with design tools ...

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All JobsVisual Effects Editor JobsVisual Effects Editor Jobs in California

Visual Effects Editor information

See California salary details

$11

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How much do visual effects editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for visual effects 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 does a visual effects editor do?

A Visual Effects Editor is responsible for integrating visual effects (VFX) into film or television projects. They work closely with the director, VFX supervisors, and editors to ensure that digital effects blend seamlessly with live-action footage. Their duties include preparing VFX shots, managing shot tracking, and reviewing the quality and timing of effects. Visual Effects Editors play a crucial role in maintaining the visual continuity and storytelling of a production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual effects editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Visual Effects Editor, you need strong skills in video editing, compositing, and a solid understanding of film production, often supported by a degree in film, animation, or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Nuke, and Autodesk Maya, along with knowledge of color grading and motion tracking tools, is crucial. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills that enable collaboration with directors and other post-production professionals. These skills ensure seamless integration of visual effects, enhance storytelling, and meet the technical and artistic demands of film and media production.

What are some common challenges visual effects editors face when integrating VFX shots into the final edit?

Visual Effects Editors often encounter challenges such as ensuring seamless integration of VFX shots with live-action footage, managing multiple versions of shots as they progress through revisions, and maintaining clear communication between the editorial, VFX, and production teams. Balancing creative intent with technical constraints and tight deadlines can also be demanding, especially when last-minute changes arise. Developing strong organizational skills and adaptability is key to successfully navigating these challenges and delivering a polished final product.

What is the difference between Visual Effects Editor vs Motion Graphics Artist?

AspectVisual Effects EditorMotion Graphics Artist
CredentialsProficiency in VFX software (After Effects, Nuke), portfolioProficiency in motion design tools (After Effects, Cinema 4D), portfolio
Work EnvironmentFilm, TV, advertising post-productionBroadcast, advertising, digital media
Industry UsageUsed for integrating visual effects into footageUsed for creating animated graphics and titles
Search IntentCompare VFX editing roles with motion graphicsRelated to visual effects but focuses on animation

While both roles require proficiency in After Effects and similar software, Visual Effects Editors primarily focus on integrating visual effects into live footage for film and TV, whereas Motion Graphics Artists create animated graphics and titles for various media. Both roles are essential in post-production but serve different creative purposes within the industry.

How much does a visual effects editor make?

A visual effects editor's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but the median annual salary in the field is typically around $70,000 to $100,000. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced editors working on major projects can earn significantly more, especially with proficiency in tools like Adobe After Effects and Nuke.

How to become a visual effects editor?

To become a visual effects editor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in film production, computer graphics, or a related field, along with strong skills in software such as Adobe After Effects, Nuke, or Maya. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions and building a portfolio of work are important steps. Knowledge of editing, compositing, and understanding of film production workflows are also essential for success in this role.

Is a visual effects editor a good career?

A visual effects editor is a skilled professional responsible for assembling and integrating visual effects into film and video projects, often requiring proficiency with editing software like Adobe After Effects or Nuke. The career offers opportunities in the entertainment industry, with potential for growth and specialization, but it can involve long hours and tight deadlines. Success typically depends on technical skills, creativity, and experience.

What cities in California are hiring for Visual Effects Editor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Visual Effects Editor job openings:

Visual Effects Editor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Visual Effects Editor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,867 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Social Media Editor

Smosh

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Position Overview:
SMOSH is hiring a Social Media Editor to edit short-form video content for TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and Facebook. This role includes cutting both original and long-form footage into engaging, platform-appropriate edits. The editor will partner closely with Social Media, Production, and Marketing to create engaging short-form content that aligns with Smosh's brand voice, platform best practices, and audience engagement goals.

Core Competencies:

  • Platform adaptation: Reformats content to meet the visual, structural, and technical standards of TikTok, Reels, YouTube Shorts, and other platforms.
  • Collaboration: Communicates clearly and works well across departments, especially with producers and the social team to create content that aligns with the Smosh brand.
  • Technical proficiency: Skilled in Adobe Premiere, with working knowledge and Photoshop.
  • Project management: Able to manage multiple projects at once, meet deadlines, and incorporate feedback quickly.
  • Social First Storytelling: Understands how to hook viewers quickly, optimize retention, and tailor edits to the unique behavior of each platform.

Responsibilities:

  • Short-form editing: 
    • Edit original content specifically designed for social-first distribution.
    • Edit marketing materials such as highlight reels, vertical trailers and vertical teasers. 
    • Optimize edits for platform-specific performance, including pacing, captions, framing, and hook development.
  • Clip-downs from long-form: Collaborate with Social Media Managers and Producers to identify high-impact moments and new clip opportunities from long-form content.
  • Brand alignment: Ensure all edits reflect the company’s tone, pacing, and style guidelines.
  • Trend awareness: Stay up to date on platform-specific trends and incorporate them where relevant.
  • Feedback implementation: 
    • Manage multiple editing priorities while meeting fast-paced publishing deadlines.
    • Organize project files and maintain version control across active campaigns.

Preferred Qualities:

  • 2+ years editing short-form content for social platforms in a professional or fast-paced setting
  • Working knowledge of monday.com, After Effects, Google Drive and Frame.io. 
  • Strong understanding of audience retention metrics and short-form content performance.
  • Reliable problem-solving and execution under pressure.
  • Passion for comedy, internet culture, and digital entertainment.