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Film and Video Editor Career in South Africa

Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.

OFO Code2021-265403
Trade occupationNo
Green occupationNo
Related qualifications2

Occupation overview

Makes and implements editorial decisions regarding mood, pace and climax of films, television programs, video productions or commercials.

What does a Film and Video Editor do?

A Film and Video Editor shapes recorded footage into a coherent production by making decisions about mood, pace and climax. The work may involve editing films, television programmes, video productions or commercials, including post-production work and operating film-editing equipment.

Specialisations

Film Editing Equipment OperatorPost Production Editor

How to become a Film and Video Editor in South Africa

  1. Build practical editing skills through personal, school or community video projects and practise creating different moods, pacing and narrative climaxes.
  2. Consider the Further Education and Training Certificate: Film, Television and Video Production Operations at NQF Level 4 as a relevant training pathway.
  3. Consider the National Certificate in Film and Video Technology at NQF Level 5 as another relevant training pathway.
  4. Develop a portfolio that demonstrates editing ability across suitable film, television, video or commercial projects.
  5. Confirm current qualification, provider and assessment details with SAQA or an accredited provider before enrolling.

Edupstairs Preparation Guidance

A strong portfolio and practical editing experience can help demonstrate your ability. Become familiar with the full post-production process and practise making editorial decisions that support the intended story, mood and pace. Education can provide a structured foundation, but confirm current industry and provider expectations when planning your route.

Useful school subjects

  • English
  • Computer Applications Technology
  • Information Technology
  • Art

Skills that may help

  • Video-editing and post-production skills
  • Storytelling and visual judgement
  • Sense of pacing and timing
  • Ability to shape mood and build a climax
  • Attention to detail
  • Creative decision-making
  • Technical equipment operation

Related Careers

Data source: Career information is based on South Africa’s Organising Framework for Occupations (OFO) and Edupstairs career guidance. Employer, training and professional requirements may vary and should be confirmed with the relevant organisation.