Short Form Video Editors | Remote, Long Term Opportunity

We're Hiring: Remote Short-Form Video Editors | Long-Term Opportunity

Include the word "Compass" in your application title so we know you've read this posting.

We're expanding our creative team in Japan and looking for talented short-form video editors who know how to make people stop scrolling and keep watching.

We're looking for both experienced editors and promising talents who genuinely understand storytelling, pacing, and what makes content perform on Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts.

Storytelling matters more to us than flashy editing.

We don't need complicated motion graphics or excessive effects. We'd much rather work with an editor who can turn simple footage into a compelling story that keeps viewers engaged.

If you're passionate about creating great content, reliable with deadlines, and eager to grow with a creative team, we'd love to see your work.

What You'll Be Doing

• Editing engaging short form videos for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts

• Turning raw footage into compelling stories with strong hooks, natural pacing, and engaging narratives

• Creating content primarily around Japan, travel, lifestyle, and other creator and brand projects

• Adding captions, sound effects, music, and transitions where they improve the viewing experience

• Following established creative direction and content references, including Matt Hannan's content ----------

• Collaborating with our creative team, applying feedback, and consistently meeting deadlines

What We're Looking For

• Strong storytelling instincts and an understanding of audience retention

• Experience editing short-form content, with a portfolio demonstrating your creative judgment

• Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro, CapCut, or other professional editing software

• Good editing fundamentals, including clean cuts, thoughtful sound design, readable captions, and effective pacing

• Ability to follow creative direction while bringing your own ideas and creativity

• Excellent communication in English

• Reliable availability and responsiveness during agreed working hours aligned with Japan Standard Time (JST)

• Strong attention to detail, accountability, and willingness to learn

Bonus points if:

• You've edited videos with strong engagement or viral performance

• You're a content creator yourself and understand what attracts and retains viewers

• You're interested in Japan, travel, and social media content

• You have a background in multimedia arts, filmmaking, or a related creative field

You don't need to be a motion graphics expert. We care far more about how you tell a story than how many effects you can use.

Compensation and Work Arrangement

• Starting rate of $30 per completed reel, with flexibility depending on experience and project requirements

• Remote, contractual role with consistent opportunities for ongoing projects

• Compensation reviews based on quality, reliability, and overall performance

• Opportunities to grow into a larger role as the team expands

• Flexible working arrangement, with reliable communication during agreed JST aligned hours

We're interested in building lasting working relationships with editors who take their craft seriously.

Why Join Our Team?

Learn from someone who helped build Instagram Reels.

You'll have the opportunity to receive guidance from Matt Hannan, a former engineer on Instagram's Reels team, and learn how to approach content with a deeper understanding of what makes videos engaging.

Consistent work and real opportunities to improve.

Our client roster is growing, and we're developing a creative workflow that helps editors improve their skills and take on greater responsibility.

Potential opportunities in Tokyo.

Outstanding team members may have the opportunity to work alongside our core creative team in Japan as we continue expanding.

How to Apply

Please submit the following:

Application title: Include the word "Compass".

Your 3 best short form edits: Share direct links that are instantly watchable, with no access requests or login requirements.

Your editing experience: Briefly tell us how long you've been editing and which software you use.

Your strongest edit: Of the three videos you submitted, which one demonstrates your best storytelling, and why?

Your availability: Share your timezone and general availability.

Your contact details: Include your Instagram username or WhatsApp contact for further communication.

Shortlisted applicants may be invited to complete a practical test edit. A confidentiality agreement will be provided before any project materials are shared.

Applications without the required keyword, accessible portfolio links, or contact information may not be considered.

We're looking for editors who genuinely care about their work and want to grow with a team that values great storytelling.

If that sounds like you, we'd love to see what you can create.