by In the dynamic world of media, video editors play a crucial role in shaping the final output of visual content. From crafting engaging narratives in films and TV shows to creating captivating promotional videos, they are the unsung heroes behind the scenes.
Writing a standout video editor resume is essential for showcasing your technical expertise, creative vision, and professional experience. Whether you're a seasoned specialist looking to advance your career or a newcomer eager to break into the industry, a well-structured resume can make all the difference.
In this guide, we will walk you through the key elements of an effective video editor resume, providing tips and examples to help you highlight your unique qualifications.
Video editor resume examples
Freelance video editor resume template
News video editor resume sample
Professional Summary
Experienced News Video Editor with over 8 years in the broadcast journalism industry, specializing in high-paced news environments. Proficient in editing breaking news, feature stories, and live broadcasts under tight deadlines. Adept at using Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, and Final Cut Pro.
Experience
Senior News Video Editor
Los Angeles News Network (LANN) | Los Angeles, CA, May 2021 – Present
- Edit live and breaking news segments, including high-profile stories such as natural disasters and political events.
- Successfully managed multiple live feeds and delivered timely updates during critical situations.
- Edit in-depth feature stories and investigative reports, such as "Inside LA’s Homeless Crisis", which won the 2022 Regional Emmy Award for Best News Feature.
- Work closely with reporters, producers, and anchors to ensure that all editorial content meets network standards and deadlines.
- Assist in training junior editors and overseeing their work on complex projects.
News Video Editor
NBC Los Angeles | Los Angeles, CA, June 2017 – April 2021
- Edited daily news segments for the evening news broadcast, including stories on local events, politics, and entertainment.
- Maintained high editing standards and adhered to strict broadcast schedules.
- Utilized Avid Media Composer and Adobe Premiere Pro for editing, color correction, and sound design, ensuring polished and professional final products.
Junior News Video Editor
KTLA 5 | Los Angeles, CA, January 2016 – May 2017
- Assisted senior editors with the production of news segments and video packages, gaining experience in various editing techniques and software.
- Provided editorial support for daily news operations, including logging footage, syncing audio, and preparing materials for broadcast.
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism
University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA
- Graduated: May 2017
Skills
- Video Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, Final Cut Pro
- News Production: Editing breaking news, live broadcasts, and feature stories
- Storytelling: Crafting compelling narratives and maintaining clarity and accuracy
- Technical Proficiency: Color correction, audio editing, and video compression
- Time Management: Ability to work under tight deadlines and handle multiple projects
Resume layout
When formatting a video production resume, attention to detail and clarity are paramount. Here are some general guidelines to ensure your document is both professional and visually appealing:
Placement
- Use left alignment for all sections to maintain readability. Centering text is generally reserved for headers or titles.
- Place key sections such as your name, contact information, and summary or objective at the top. Follow with experience and skills in a logical order.
Font
- Select a clean font such as Arial, Times New Roman, Helvetica, or Calibri. Avoid overly stylized fonts.
- Choose a 10-12 point font size for the main text. Your name and section headers can be slightly larger.
- Ensure consistent font style and size throughout the resume for video editor to create a cohesive look.
Spacing
- Utilize standard 1-inch margins on all sides to ensure your application is well-framed and easy to read.
- If you want to fit more content, consider slightly reducing the margins to 0.75 inches, but do not go too narrow.
- Maintain 1.15 to 1.5 line spacing for the body text. Employ extra places between sections to visually separate different parts.
Action verbs
- Start bullet points with strong action verbs such as "edited", "produced", "designed", or "created" to convey your contributions effectively.
Length
- Aim for a one-page resume if you have fewer than 10 years of experience.
- For those with more extensive experience or a diverse portfolio, a two-page resume is acceptable.
Resume builder
If you need to create an application quickly or prefer not to remember all these formatting rules, using a resume builder can simplify the process and ensure a professional result.
Why choose Resume Trick?
- Offers pre-designed templates that automatically handle layout.
- Saves your time and reduces the need for manual adjustments.
- Gives AI-powered suggestions for crafting compelling summaries, selecting relevant skills, and detailing your experience blocks.
- With a variety of film editor resume examples provides you with a clear idea of how to structure your own document.
- Generates your application as a PDF file, ensuring a professional and universally accepted format.
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Contact information
This section should be at the forefront of your video editing resume, ensuring that recruiters can quickly find and connect with you. Below is how to effectively include this information.
- Start with your full name.
- Incorporate your primary phone number. Make sure you check it regularly.
- Provide an email; opt for a combination of your first and last name if possible.
- Attach a link to an online portfolio or website. Ensure the URL is functional and not excessively long.
- If you are open to relocation for a job or working from home, you can add your current location followed by "willing to relocate" or "remote".
- Noting your city and state can be useful, but avoid providing your full address for privacy reasons.
Video editor resume summary
Video editing is a highly competitive field, so having a strong summary is crucial in grabbing the attention of potential employers. It is a brief overview of your skills, experience, and achievements as a video editor.
It should be no longer than 3-4 sentences and should highlight your most impressive qualifications.
Here’s how to craft an effective video editing resume summary:
- Begin with a compelling opening sentence that captures your professional identity.
- Use an adjective or phrase that encapsulates your expertise, such as "Experienced", "Skilled", or "Creative".
- Mention a few key accomplishments or experiences that demonstrate your value.
- Include a list of your core skills that are pertinent to the job. Underline what sets you apart from other candidates.
- Incorporate keywords from the job description into your film editor resume summary in a way that reads naturally. Avoid keyword stuffing.
Keywords to consider:
- Video Editing
- Motion Graphics
- Post-Production
- Visual Storytelling
- Audience Engagement
- Multimedia Production
- Motion Design
- Promotional Videos
- Creating Engaging Narratives
- Viewer Engagement
- Color Grading
- Sound Design
- Visual Effects
- Award-Winning Projects
- Viewer Retention
- Video Production Processes
- Industry-Standard Software
Example 1:
Creative and detail-oriented Video Editor with over 5 years of experience in motion graphics and post-production. Proficient in Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve, with a proven track record of enhancing visual storytelling and increasing audience engagement. Adept at managing multiple projects under tight deadlines.
Example 2:
Skilled Video Editor specializing in multimedia production. Successfully edited over 100 promotional videos and short films, utilizing Adobe After Effects and Audition to achieve high-quality results. Recognized for strong problem-solving skills, effective communication with teams, and a passion for creating engaging narratives. Committed to delivering exceptional video content that meets marketing goals and drives viewer engagement.
Example 3:
Dynamic Video Editor with 7 years of experience in color grading, sound design, and visual effects. Known for innovative editing techniques and exceptional attention to detail, resulting in award-winning projects and increased viewer retention. Proficient in managing end-to-end video production processes and meeting tight deadlines. Highly skilled in using industry-standard software to produce compelling video content.
Experience
Constructing a video editor's resume that effectively demonstrates past professional experience involves skillful organization and presentation.
List your most recent job experience at the top, followed by previous positions in reverse chronological order.
Begin your video editor resume with your job title, which should accurately reflect your role in each position. Then, include the name of the company where you worked and its location.
Specify the period when you started and ended each employment. Outline your main duties and responsibilities in bullet points. Focus on tasks that are relevant to the position you are applying for.
Highlight specific achievements, projects, or initiatives you successfully completed. Use metrics and quantifiable results where possible to demonstrate your impact.
Example:
Senior Video Editor
Creative Media Productions, Los Angeles, CA, March 2021 – Present
- Edit high-profile commercials and promotional videos for major brands, including Nike and Apple, using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects.
- Collaborate with directors and producers to create visually compelling content that increased client engagement by 30%.
- Manage a team of junior editors and oversee post-production workflows, ensuring timely delivery of projects.
- Implement new editing techniques that reduced project turnaround time by 20%.
Video Editor
Bright Ideas Studio, Chicago, IL, June 2018 – February 2021
- Edited and assembled footage for a variety of projects, including corporate videos, music clips, and educational content.
- Utilized Final Cut Pro X and DaVinci Resolve to enhance video quality and apply color correction and visual effects.
- Coordinated with clients to understand their vision and deliver edited videos that met their expectations.
- Successfully managed multiple projects simultaneously, maintaining high standards.
Junior Video Editor
MediaWorks Agency, Chicago, IL, January 2016 – May 2018
- Assisted senior editors in cutting and refining video for online and broadcast platforms.
- Created motion graphics and animations for promotional videos and social media content.
- Conducted quality checks and revisions based on client feedback, ensuring final products were polished and professional.
- Developed a streamlined editing process that improved workflow efficiency by 15%.
Education
When pursuing a career as a video editor, it is imperative to exhibit your academic qualifications and professional development in an organized and proficient manner.
This section of your film editor resume should be listed in chronological order, starting with your most recent education first. Here are some tips and examples on effectively listing your education.
- Start with the degree you earned, such as Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media Studies, Master of Fine Arts in Film Editing, or Associate Degree in Video Production.
- Write the name of the institution where you obtained your credentials, such as the University of California, Los Angeles, or New York Film Academy.
- Provide the city and state (or country, if international) of the college.
- State the month and year of your graduation. If you haven’t graduated yet, you can include your expected graduation date.
- If applicable, mention coursework, projects, or specializations that pertain to the job you're applying for.
- List any honors or awards received, such as Cum Laude, or any relevant academic achievements.
- If your GPA is strong (typically 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale), including it can help demonstrate your work ethic.
Example:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Film Editing
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
- Graduated: May 2020
- GPA: 3.8/4.0
- Coursework: Advanced Editing Techniques, Motion Graphics, Film Theory
- Capstone Project: Edited a short movie that was selected for screening at the 2020 Los Angeles Film Festival.
Associate Degree in Video Production
New York Film Academy, NY
- Graduated with Distinction: June 2018
- GPA: 3.7/4.0
- Projects: Produced and edited a series of promotional videos for local businesses.
Video editor skills for resume
A video editing resume can benefit greatly from including a mix of soft and hard skills as it presents a comprehensive picture of the candidate's capabilities. It also helps hiring managers determine if the candidate is the right fit for the job by looking at their specific capacities.
- Hard skills are specific, teachable abilities that are essential for the role of a video editor. They often require formal training and can be quantified.
- Soft ones are interpersonal attributes that help you work effectively and harmoniously with others. They are more about how you handle work situations and interactions.
Technical skills:
- Proficiency in video editing software
- Knowledge of different file formats
- Color correction/grading
- Audio editing and mixing
- Motion graphics/visual effects
- Familiarity with codecs and compression settings
- Video encoding/exporting
- Understanding of aspect ratios and frame rates
- Knowledge of file management systems
- Ability to troubleshoot technical issues
Personal abilities:
- Creativity
- Attention to detail
- Capacity to perform under
- Aptitude for working in stressful situations
- Competence in handling pressure
- Adaptability
- Problem-solving
- Organization
- Collaboration
- Time management
- Communication
- Flexibility
Additional information
In the realm of video editing, competition is fierce and the landscape is constantly shifting. To make a lasting impression on hiring managers, don't forget to include extra personal details in your video editor resume.
| Category | Description | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Hobbies. | Including hobbies can show your personality and diverse interests. For example, photography can highlight your eye for composition and detail. | Photography Filmmaking Graphic design |
| Courses. | List relevant courses to show your commitment to learning. For instance, a course in VR video editing can demonstrate proficiency in new technologies. | Virtual Reality Video Editing (Coursera, 2023) Advanced Color Grading (LinkedIn Learning, 2022) Motion Graphics Design (Udemy, 2021) |
| Languages. | Fluency in multiple languages is a valuable asset, especially for companies with international clients or projects. | Spanish French Mandarin |
| Internships. | Mention internships to demonstrate practical experience. | Assistant Editor at Focus Media (January - May 2021) |
| Awards. | Highlight any recognitions you’ve received. This includes industry awards or client accolades, showcasing your competence. | Best Editing Award at NY Film Festival (2022) Client Appreciation Award from Sony Productions (2021) |
| References. | Add references from previous employers or colleagues to vouch for your skills and work ethic, with their permission. | Reference from Jane Smith, Senior Editor at Go Productions (contacted July 2023) Recommendation from Professor John Doe, Film School (provided June 2023) |
| Certificates. | Attach certifications from training to prove your expertise and commitment to skill development. | Adobe Certified Expert (Adobe, obtained March 2022) Certification in Advanced Post-Production Techniques (Film School, completed November 2021) |
Portfolio
A portfolio provides tangible evidence of your editing skills and technical proficiency. This visual representation can make a stronger impact than text alone, helping you stand out from other candidates.
Add a specific section titled "Portfolio" or "Work Samples" to your video editor resume. This section should be placed towards the end.
Include a hyperlink to your online portfolio. Ensure that the link is clickable in the digital formats of your video production resume. For printed versions, make sure the URL is typed clearly and correctly.
Write a brief description or highlight notable projects. Mention what types of work are showcased and any significant achievements or recognitions related to the work.
Example:
Portfolio
A curated collection of my best work, including films, commercials, and music videos.
Projects:
- "City Lights". The short movie featured at the Sundance Film Festival in Park City, UT (January 2023). This project won the Best Editing Award and was praised for its innovative visual effects.
- "Summer Campaign". Commercial for Nike, showcased in New York City, NY (June 2022). Implemented advanced motion graphics and color grading, contributing to a 30% increase in viewer engagement.
- "Music Video for The Weekend". The music video released in Los Angeles, CA (August 2021). Achieved over 1 million views on YouTube within the first two months.
For more samples, visit my portfolio at www.johndoeportfolio.com.
Cover letter for video editor
Your cover letter is the first opportunity to make a strong impression on potential employers. It's your chance to showcase your skills, experience, and passion for the industry. The quality of this document can greatly impact one's chances of getting an interview for a video editor role.
Below are several overall tips to help you write a standout letter:
- Address the letter to the hiring manager by name if possible. If not, use a general greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager".
- Briefly introduce yourself and note the position you're applying for. Include how you found out about the job opening.
- Summarize your relevant skills, experiences, and accomplishments. Focus on your video editing expertise and how it aligns with the job requirements.
- Mention specific projects or work samples that demonstrate your abilities. Relate them to the needs of the company.
- Explain why you’re interested in this particular company and how your skills and experiences make you a good candidate.
- End with a call to action, such as requesting an interview to discuss how you can contribute to the company. Thank the recruiter.
- Use a professional closing statement such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards", followed by your name.
Video editor cover letter example:
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I am writing to express my enthusiastic interest in the Video Editor position at Creative Media Inc., as advertised on your company’s careers page. With over six years of professional experience in video editing and a portfolio of successful projects, I am eager to bring my skills and creativity to your team.
In my most recent role as a Senior Video Editor at Brightline Productions, I led the editing and post-production of a diverse range of content, including promotional videos, documentaries, and branded shorts.
One of my notable projects, the "Tech Innovators" documentary series, won the Best Editing Award at the 2023 National Media Awards. This project, which involved meticulous attention to pacing and storytelling, resulted in a 50% increase in viewership and significant positive feedback from both the client and audience.
I am proficient in a variety of editing software, including Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. My ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, combined with my expertise in color grading, sound design, and visual effects, allows me to deliver high-quality, polished final products that align with clients’ visions and objectives.
I would welcome the chance to discuss how my background, skills, and passion for video editing align with the needs of your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of working together and am available at your convenience for an interview.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
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Spelling and grammar errors can detract from the content of your video editor resume and cover letter, making it harder for the reader to understand your qualifications and experience.
- After writing your papers, take a break before proofreading. This helps you approach the documents with fresh eyes and a clearer perspective.
- Use built-in spell check tools in word processors, but don’t rely solely on them.
- Read through your video editor resume slowly to catch any spelling or grammar mistakes that automated tools might miss.
- Ensure that all dates, job titles, and details are accurate and consistent throughout your drafts.
- Ask a friend, family member, or colleague to review your application. They might provide valuable feedback.
- Consider having a career coach or resume expert review your documents for additional insights.
- Read your papers aloud to catch awkward phrasing and ensure the text flows smoothly.
- Create a proofreading checklist to ensure you cover all aspects.
- Sometimes, errors are easier to spot on a printed page rather than on a screen.
Conclusion
A well-crafted video editor resume is your gateway to standing out among numerous candidates.
Video editing is more than just cutting and splicing footage; it involves storytelling, understanding visual aesthetics, and mastering complex software. Therefore, your resume should emphasize not only your proficiency with editing tools but also your ability to convey compelling narratives.
By carefully writing each section of your video editor resume, you enhance your chances of landing that coveted video editing position. Remember, your application is a reflection of your skills and passion—make sure it shines as brightly as your work.
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