Video Producer and Editor

Position Summary 

The Video Producer and Editor will support the Center’s video strategy by producing high-quality, engaging short-form video content across platforms. In addition to being one of two primary internal resources for all phases of video production, this role will execute video projects from concept through final delivery, helping translate complex research findings into clear, compelling visual stories.  

Working closely with researchers, editors, designers, and audience staff, the Video Producer and Editor will ensure that all video content reflects Pew Research Center’s standards for accuracy, clarity and nonpartisanship. This position reports to the Video Manager. 

This is a term-limited, grant-funded position expected to extend three years.

Primary Responsibilities 

Video Production and Editing (70%) 

• Produce and edit short-form video content for Pew Research Center’s website and external platforms 

• Proactively pitch and develop original video concepts aligned with research releases and audience needs, contribute to scripting and storyboarding, in collaboration with the Video Manager, Video Lead and internal partners 

• Create motion graphics and animations that clearly communicate research findings 

• Provide hands-on production support across studio and field shoots, including camera operation, lighting and audio 

• Handle post-production workflows including editing, sound mixing, color correction, captioning and platform-specific formatting, ensuring optimization and accessibility across all distribution channels 

• Manage project timelines and deliverables to ensure timely publication of video that is aligned with research releases and responsive to audience needs 

• Ensure all video content aligns with Pew Research Center’s editorial standards, brand guidelines and commitment to nonpartisanship 

Collaboration and Workflow (20%) 

• Partner with research, design, digital and audience teams to translate research into engaging video content 

• Coordinate pre-production planning, including production timelines, shot lists, interview preparation and logistics 

• Incorporate feedback efficiently while maintaining editorial standards and production timelines 

• Collaborate with audience development teams on packaging, thumbnails, titles and descriptions to maximize reach and engagement 

• Work with freelance editors and vendors as needed 

• Provide guidance to other staff on fundamentals of video production 

Measurement and Assessment (10%) 

• Actively monitor video performance across platforms, tracking metrics such as retention, watch time, completion rate, engagement and audience growth 

• Apply insights from analytics to improve storytelling, pacing, formatting and platform packaging 

• Contribute ideas for testing and experimentation (e.g., variations in hooks, thumbnails, length or release timing) and incorporate findings into future production decisions 

• Stay current with trends in short-form video, motion graphics and social media formats 

Education/Training /Experience 

• B.A. or equivalent professional experience 

• 3-5 years of experience producing and editing high-quality short-form video content 

• Strong news judgment and demonstrated ability to translate complex research findings into clear, accurate and engaging visual narratives 

• Strong scriptwriting skills with the ability to craft concise, compelling narratives for short-form formats 

• Demonstrated proficiency in video editing software (e.g., Premiere, After Effects) and motion graphics 

• Hands-on knowledge of video production equipment, lighting and audio fundamentals 

• Interest in working with data-driven research or journalistic content 

• Fluency in interpreting video performance metrics (e.g., retention, watch time, completion rate) and applying insights to creative decisions 

• Understanding of platform-specific best practices for social video distribution