Image that illustrates Film editor

Film editor

45 700 kr

Directors and producers of film, theater etc.

39 600 - 54 000 kr / month

Women earn 107% of what men do.

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Film editor

Average salary 45 700 kr
Males 44 100 kr
Females 47 400 kr

What does a film editor do? – Tasks and work environment

A film editor works with planning, coordinating, and reviewing content within film production, often responsible for ensuring that the final material meets the artistic and dramaturgical goals of the production. The role involves selecting and editing footage, collaborating with directors, producers, and technicians, and ensuring that the story has the right tone and flow. The work environment is varied and can include filming locations, production offices, and editing studios, where deadlines and high pace are common. Creative problem-solving skills and good teamwork are essential, as many projects are carried out in teams and under time pressure.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for film editors has shown some variation. In 2022, the average salary was 43,400 SEK, which increased to 47 000 SEK during 2023. In 2024, the average salary decreased slightly to 45 700 SEK, representing a reduction of about 2.8% compared to the previous year. Despite this temporary decline, the profession has experienced an overall positive salary growth of just under 5.3% from 2022 to 2024. Changes can be explained by variations in demand, project funding, and competition within the industry. Generally, salaries are influenced by the number of larger productions, the availability of experienced editors, and developments in streaming and digital media.

Film editor salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 45 700 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (female, public sector)
  • Highest salary: 54,000 SEK/month (male, private sector, at least 3 years post-secondary education)
  • Hourly wage: 275 SEK/hour (based on 166 working hours/month)
  • Women earn: 47 400 SEK/month
  • Men earn: 44 100 SEK/month
  • Women earn: 107% of what men do

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a film editor often involves education in film, media, or journalism, supplemented with practical experience and technical skills in editing. Formal education is common, but many combine academic studies with internships, project work, and further training to strengthen their competence. The profession also requires a good understanding of storytelling techniques and an eye for detail.

  • Bachelor's degree in film, media or journalism: 3 years
  • Courses in film editing and storytelling: 1–2 semesters
  • Internship or trainee position at a production company: 6–12 months
  • Basic knowledge of editing software (e.g., Avid, Premiere): required
  • Experience from own film projects or student productions: advantageous

Many film editors build their networks during their education, and personal contacts can be crucial for entering the industry. Participating in film festivals, workshops, and collaborative projects often increases future job opportunities.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Film editors are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. In some cases, additional compensation for unsocial hours, travel expenses, and project bonuses may also be provided, especially for larger productions or longer contracts.

Competition and challenges

The job market for film editors is characterized by high competition and an oversupply of qualified applicants, making it difficult to establish oneself without relevant experience and networks. Opportunities for permanent employment are limited at the national level, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Project-based employment and short-term assignments are common, requiring flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to new teams and environments. The industry is also affected by changes in funding, technology, and audience consumption habits.

Tips for aspiring film editors

To succeed as a film editor, it is beneficial to develop a strong sense of storytelling and stay curious about new technical tools. Creativity helps when unexpected problems arise during production, while precision and analytical skills are essential for reviewing and improving material. Building a broad network through internships and collaborative projects increases the chances of exciting assignments and long-term career development. Persistence and flexibility are needed to handle periods of high workload and changing conditions. It is also wise to continuously update skills in new editing programs and storytelling formats. Finally, strong communication skills are central, as collaboration with other professionals is a daily part of the work.

Key facts about film editors

  • Educational level: Bachelor's degree in film, media, or journalism
  • Work environment: Combination of office, studio, and filming location
  • Typical employment form: Project-based and freelance roles
  • Demand: Limited permanent positions, high competition for jobs
  • Special skills: Editing, dramaturgy, and technical competence

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, film editors can advance to roles such as chief editor, producer, or project manager within larger productions. Some choose to specialize in documentary films, drama series, or advertising, while others move on to work as consultants or start their own production companies. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the opportunities for work as directors and producers of film, theater, etc., are limited, and competition is fierce. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with approximately 620 job openings nationwide in this field. Flexibility, networking, and up-to-date skills are key factors for long-term success.

Frequently asked questions about film editors

  • What is the average salary of a film editor?
    - The average salary is 45 700 SEK per month.
  • What are the highest and lowest salaries for a film editor?
    - The highest salary is 54,000 SEK and the lowest 39,600 SEK per month.
  • Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
    - Women earn on average 47 400 SEK and men 44 100 SEK, meaning women earn 107% of what men do.
  • What education is required to become a film editor?
    - A bachelor's degree in film, media or journalism is recommended, along with editing experience.
  • What is the job market like for film editors?
    - The job market is competitive with limited permanent positions and many project-based roles.
  • Which programs and tools should a film editor know?
    - Knowledge of editing software such as Avid, Adobe Premiere, and Final Cut Pro is important.
  • How much does a film editor earn per hour?
    - The average hourly wage is 275 SEK.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Film editor is 54000 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials with a post-secondary education, 3 years or more. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 53600 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Film editor is 39600 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Public sector. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 39800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 38500 kr 38600 kr
35-44 45100 kr 45300 kr
45-54 50200 kr 50500 kr
55-64 53400 kr 54100 kr
Snitt 107% 45500 kr 45700 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Film editor has the SSYK code 2654, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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