Virginia – Editor needed for short documentary – ASAP – Paid

Job Position(s): Virginia – Editor needed for short documentary – ASAP – Paid

The Virginia Film Office is currently seeking an Editor for a short documentary project based in Virginia. Working within the post-production workflow, the Editor will be responsible for assembling raw footage into a cohesive narrative cut, shaping the story from first assembly through picture lock. This role suits a documentary editor who is comfortable working quickly and independently on non-fiction material with real editorial ownership.

About the Role

This is a post-production position on a short documentary, meaning the Editor comes in with footage already captured and works directly with the director to build the film’s structure and pacing. A typical day involves reviewing selects, building sequences, and refining cuts based on director feedback, all on a compressed timeline given the ASAP start. The project is short-form non-fiction, so experience with interview-driven or observational documentary editing is directly applicable here.

Key Responsibilities

• Organize and log raw documentary footage to build a manageable editing workflow from the ground up.
• Assemble a rough cut that establishes narrative arc, pacing, and story logic from available interview and b-roll material.
• Collaborate with the director through multiple revision passes to refine the editorial structure and tighten the final cut.
• Manage audio sync, dialogue editing, and temp music placement throughout the post-production process.
• Prepare a clean picture lock export and deliver project files in formats suitable for color and sound finishing.
• Communicate clearly on timeline and deliverables given the production’s immediate turnaround requirements.

What You Bring

• Demonstrated credits in short documentary or non-fiction post-production, with a reel or samples available upon request.
• Proficiency in Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, or Final Cut Pro, with a working knowledge of documentary editing conventions.
• Experience managing your own post-production workflow on small crew productions without a dedicated post supervisor.
• Ability to begin work immediately and meet a tight delivery schedule without sacrificing editorial quality.
• Based in Virginia or available to work on-site or remotely within the project’s logistical requirements.

Why This Role

The Virginia Film Office posts only paid positions, and this short documentary Editor role is a compensated engagement. For editors building their non-fiction credits in the Virginia production community, this is a direct path to a completed short film with a verifiable production behind it. The Virginia Film Office has an established reputation as the official resource connecting qualified crew with legitimate productions across the state.

Apply now for the Editor position with the Virginia Film Office and bring this short documentary across the finish line.