Audio Film Editor: Duties & Salary

by Amanda Fornecker

Got an ear for sound? If you can basically hear the drop of a pin, you may be well-suited for a career as an audio film editor. You can find jobs in a variety of locations geographically and in different industries. Mostly, audio film editors will work to make sure the viewer has the best experience with each project.
What does an audio film editor do?
Audio film editors do just what their title describes: They edit sound in various kinds of film. They also may be responsible for mixing sound, reproducing music, and working on sound effects for movie and television programs. Audio film editors get to work on a project once it has been completed. They insert sound and make sure the sound is right for on-screen purposes. This includes the speech of actors, the music throughout the film, and the background noise that may or may not interfere with making the film audible. Much of the work of an audio film editor has become digital and computerized in recent years so a knowledge of working with advancing technology is certainly an advantage. How much do audio film editors get paid and what kinds of audio film editor jobs can I get?
It really depends on your location and your job description to know exactly what you'll be making as an audio film editor. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), those salaried workers in the motion picture industry received about $593 per week in May 2006. That's actually $25 more than the average weekly salary for all other occupations. Audio film editors work mainly in the motion picture industry but also work on television programs, documentaries, and other means that require audio checks. Audio film editors are those who work in studios where they can access high-tech sound equipment. Audio film editor jobs are more in demand in urban areas. The job outlook for those working in the sound engineering industry is positive; audio film editors will increase about nine percent by 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Audio film editor jobs are great for those who have a good ear for different sounds and who can edit pieces together to bring out the best in a movie or television program. After all, one of the most important parts of these visual pieces is the sound.