Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Film Editor is a professional responsible for editing and assembling recorded raw material into a suitable, finished product ready for broadcasting or film release. This material may include camera footage, dialogue, sound effects, graphics, and special effects.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 9.4% (far above average)
Annual job openings: 3,600
Direct AI exposure: 14% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 81% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $75K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $40K per year | $53K per year | $75K per year | $105K per year | $149K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $24K above the national average. | ||||
Film Editors typically work in post-production studios or editing suites, often within the entertainment industry. The work environment is highly digital, requiring proficiency with specialized editing software. Editors may work independently or collaborate closely with directors and other production staff, often under tight deadlines.
Film editing is a creative and technical part of the post-production process. It involves selecting and combining shots into sequences, ultimately creating a finished motion picture. Film Editors play a critical role in determining the pacing, atmosphere, narrative structure, and storytelling of a film.
This occupation demands a keen eye for detail, a good sense of timing, and a strong understanding of the emotional and narrative implications of each edit. Editors must be adept in various editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer.
The work requires patience, concentration, and often long hours. Editors need to be highly collaborative, able to communicate effectively with directors and other team members. They must also keep up with new trends and technologies in the constantly evolving field of film production.
The typical educational path for a Film Editor includes obtaining a bachelor's degree in film studies, cinematography, or a related field, which usually takes about 4 years. Additional specialized training in editing software and techniques is also common.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
