Video editor

What does a Video Editor do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A video editor is responsible for processing, cutting, and finalizing moving images for film, television, advertising, or digital platforms. The work involves selecting and combining video clips, adding effects, sound, and graphics, and adapting the material to client or project requirements. Collaboration with directors, producers, and other creatives is common. The work environment is usually office-based, either at production companies, TV stations, or as a freelancer. Technological advances enable the work to be done both on-site and remotely, depending on the project and employer.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for video editors has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,400 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 39 700 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 41 700 SEK, representing a total increase of about 11.5% over three years. This positive salary trend is linked to increased demand for digital content and a greater need for qualified video editors in media, advertising, and corporate communications. Competition for skills and experience has driven up wages, especially in metropolitan areas and for those working with advanced post-production or special effects. Salaries are also influenced by employment type and conditions, with private sector employees often earning more than workers in the same profession.

Video Editor Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 41 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (private sector woman, post-secondary education 3+ years)
• Highest salary: 47,200 SEK/month (private sector man, unspecified education level)
• Hourly wage: 251 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 44 700 SEK, women 37 800 SEK (women earn 85% of what men do)
• Regional differences: Salaries tend to be higher in metropolitan areas, especially for experienced video editors in advertising and media.

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a video editor often involves post-secondary education in film, media, or visual communication, but there are also opportunities to build skills through courses and internships. Technical skills in relevant editing programs are essential, and work samples are often decisive in recruitment. Many start as assistants or interns and advance through experience and networking.

• Formal degrees: Vocational university (2–3 years), college/university (3+ years) in film, media, or similar
• Certifications/courses: Courses in Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve
• Internship/trainee: Internships during education are common and provide valuable industry contacts
• Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and interest in film and storytelling
• Self-study/online: Many learn programs and techniques via online courses and tutorials
• Tips for choosing: Work samples and showreel are often critical for employment

Common Benefits and Perks

Benefits for video editors vary depending on the employer but can include wellness allowances, flexible working hours, remote work options, and access to modern technical equipment and software. Some workplaces also offer professional development, paid training, and opportunities to participate in creative projects outside regular duties.

Competition and Challenges

The profession of a video editor is competitive, especially for recent graduates lacking experience and networks. Rapid technological changes require continuous skills development to stay current with new programs and workflows. Project-based employment and freelancing are common, which can create uncertainty about long-term employment and income. At the same time, the growing demand for video content in digital channels offers more opportunities but also raises higher quality and delivery standards. Building a strong portfolio and working across various genres can increase chances of employment and assignments.

Tips for Aspiring Video Editors

To succeed as a video editor, it’s important to combine technical skills with creativity and a strong sense of storytelling. Analytical ability helps structure and streamline workflows, while attention to detail is crucial during material review. Curiosity and a willingness to learn new programs and techniques give an advantage in a changing industry. Create a diverse showreel demonstrating range and style, and actively network to find collaborations and projects. Flexibility and patience are key, especially when approaching deadlines and increased workload. Clear communication with clients and colleagues facilitates smoother collaboration and work processes.

Key Facts about Video Editors

• Education level: Vocational college or university (2–3 years or more)
• Work environment: Office-based, often project-based or freelance
• Common employment: Employed at production companies, freelance, or consultant
• Demand: 620 available jobs in Sweden
• Special skills: Skills in editing programs and motion graphics provide a competitive edge

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a video editor can advance to roles such as senior editor, post-production supervisor, motion designer, or content manager at larger media houses and agencies. Many also choose to specialize in areas like color grading, animation, or digital storytelling. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data, but with 620 available jobs in the field of image and broadcasting technicians, the job market appears relatively healthy. The future prospects are positively influenced by increasing demand for digital content, offering good opportunities for further development and career growth for those with broad technical skills and creative drive.

Frequently Asked Questions about Video Editors

• What is the average salary of a Video Editor?
  - The average salary for a video editor is 41 700 SEK per month.
• What is the highest salary for a Video Editor?
  - The highest salary is 47,200 SEK per month and belongs to a man employed in the private sector.
• What is the lowest salary for a Video Editor?
  - The lowest salary is 35,200 SEK per month and applies to a woman employed in the private sector with post-secondary education.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, men earn on average 44 700 SEK and women 37 800 SEK, which means women earn approximately 85% of men's salaries.
• Is education required to become a Video Editor?
  - Post-secondary education in film, media, or similar is recommended, but practical experience and work samples are often decisive.
• What is the job market like for Video Editors?
  - There are 620 available jobs in the profession, and the demand for digital content increases opportunities.
• Which programs should a Video Editor master?
  - Common programs include Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and After Effects.