Remote work is becoming increasingly popular, and one field that offers the opportunity for it is closed captioning job at home.
As a closed captioner, you’ll provide a valuable service for the hearing impaired, making video content accessible to a broader audience.
So, if you have strong typing skills and excellent listening abilities, a closed captioning job might be the perfect work-from-home role.
Numerous companies seek closed captioners; some even post their job openings exclusively on job boards.
You’ll end up with a solid list of potential opportunities by simply searching for “closed captioning” or “transcriber” in the search section of various job boards.
For example, online platforms like Indeed and FlexJobs can be excellent resources to kick off your job search.
As an at-home captioner, you’ll have the advantage of creating a flexible schedule to help you strike that perfect work-life balance.
But like any remote job, you’ll need to exercise self-discipline and good time-management skills to succeed.
So, if you think you have what it takes to be a closed captioner, start exploring the job listings today and find your perfect work-from-home opportunity.
Closed Captioning Job at Home: What Is It Anyway?
Closed captioning is the process of creating captions for video and audio content, making it more accessible for viewers with hearing impairments or language barriers.
As a captioner, you will watch videos while listening to the speakers and type out what they say.
You also discern situational sounds like background music and audience applause and type them out.
There are two types of closed captioning: Offline captioning and Real-time captioning.
Offline Captioning
In offline captioning, you work with pre-recorded video or audio content. This type of captioning allows you to set your own hours and transcribe at your convenience.
Offline captioning is a more flexible option, as you can pause, rewind, and relisten to the content as needed to ensure accuracy.
Typically, you are paid on a per-video-minute basis, so the more efficient you are, the more you can earn.
Real-Time Captioning
Real-time captioning, also known as live captioning, involves transcribing live events, broadcasts, or conferences as they happen.
This requires a higher level of typing speed and accuracy and the ability to keep up with fast-paced dialogue.
You may use specialized software, known as Computer Aided Real-time Translation (CART), that helps create real-time captions on-screen.
Real-time captioners often cater to a wide range of industries, including news, entertainment, sports, and political events.
Now that you understand closed captioning, consider exploring the many opportunities available for work-from-home captioning jobs.
With the growing demand for accessible content online, your skills as a captioner can make a big difference in making videos and audio more inclusive for viewers around the globe.
Closed Captioning Job at Home: Skills and Requirements
Typing Speed and Accuracy
As a closed captioner, you should have a good typing speed and high accuracy.
Most companies require a typing speed between 180-220 WPM in order to keep up with real-time captioning.
This is important for providing accurate captions for live events or videos.
A few ways to improve your typing speed and accuracy include practicing with typing software, participating in online typing games, and monitoring your progress.
Transcription and Subtitling Skills
You need excellent transcription skills so you can accurately convert audio to written text. Also, subtitling skills are important as you’ll often have to create or edit subtitles in videos.
These skills require a keen ear for detail and the ability to adapt to various speakers, accents, and dialects.
It’s essential to understand the different writing styles and know how to navigate them in order to create a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.
Attention to Detail
Attention to detail is crucial for a closed captioner, as you must be able to catch and correct any errors in the captions.
This means closely following what is being said and ensuring proper grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
Some captioners find lip reading helpful in increasing accuracy and fine-tuning attention to detail.
Computer and Internet Connection
A reliable computer and high-speed internet connection are essential for a closed captioner.
This is because you often need to download and upload files, stream videos, and use specialized software for captioning.
A computer with appropriate software is crucial for ensuring that you can effectively produce and edit captions.
Certifications and Training
While it’s not always required, having certifications and training in closed captioning can increase your chances of landing a job.
They will demonstrate your commitment to the field, knowledge of industry standards, and ability to perform the job efficiently.
Look for reputable training programs or certification courses to help you improve your skills and knowledge as a closed captioner.
15 Platforms for Closed Captioning Job at Home
1. 3Play Media
CaptionMax is a media accessibility company offering various captioning jobs.
They are based in New York, NY, and provide a wide range of opportunities for those interested in working from home as closed captioners.
- How to Apply: Register and complete an assessment to become a contractor.
- Pay Rate: Project-based ($10 – $30 per hour)
- Website: 3Play Media
2. VITAC
VITAC is a well-established captioning service providing real-time and offline closed captioning jobs.
Based in Boston, MA, they work with various media clients.
- How to Apply: Check their Careers page for available positions and apply online.
- Pay Rate: Varies depending on the position and experience
- Website: VITAC
3. CrowdSurf
CrowdSurf is a platform that offers freelance captioning jobs.
They work with clients in various industries, including entertainment and education.
- How to Apply: Sign up on their platform and pass a qualification test.
- Pay Rate: Per-minute basis
- Website: CrowdSurf
4. Vanan
Vanan provides a range of services, including closed captioning.
They offer remote opportunities for freelancers with experience in a variety of media.
- How to Apply: Fill out their vendor application form.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: Vanan
6. Rev
Rev is a popular remote captioning platform that works with independent contractors.
With flexible working hours, you can take on projects that suit your schedule.
- How to Apply: Take a grammar test and submit a caption sample.
- Pay Rate: $0.50 to $0.75 per video minute
- Website: Rev
7. Keywords Studios
Keywords Studios focuses on gaming and technical industries, providing various services, including captioning.
They have offices in multiple countries and offer remote positions.
- How to Apply: Search and apply for jobs through their careers portal.
- Pay Rate: Dependent on the project
- Website: Keywords Studios
8. Dotsub
Dotsub is a media captioning and translation platform. Freelancers can work on projects in multiple languages.
- How to Apply: Pass a video test to join their team.
- Pay Rate: $3 per video hour
- Website: Dotsub
9. VIQ Solutions
VIQ Solutions is a company offering transcription and captioning solutions.
They provide remote work opportunities for experienced freelancers.
- How to Apply: Review their job listings and apply online.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: VIQ Solutions
10. National Captioning Institute
National Captioning Institute is a nonprofit organization specializing in broadcast captioning.
They often have remote job opportunities for experienced captioners.
- How to Apply: Search their job listings and submit an online application.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: National Captioning Institute
11. Caption Colorado
Caption Colorado is a company providing captioning and translation services.
They offer both in-house and remote positions for captioners.
- How to Apply: Check their careers page for available positions.
- Pay Rate: Varies based on the role and experience
- Website: Caption Colorado
12. Classroom Captioning
Classroom Captioning is a service that specializes in educational captioning.
They hire remote contractors for real-time and offline captioning.
- How to Apply: Complete their online application form.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: Classroom Captioning
13. Caption Call
Caption Call is a telephone captioning service for the deaf and hard of hearing.
They offer remote job opportunities for qualified professionals.
- How to Apply: Apply online through their Careers portal.
- Pay Rate: Dependent on position and experience
- Website: Caption Call
14. Capital Captions
Capital Captions is a UK-based company offering captioning, subtitling, and transcription services. They work with freelancers worldwide.
- How to Apply: Fill out their online application form.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: Capital Captions
15. Aberdeen Broadcast Services
Aberdeen Broadcast Services hires remote real-time live broadcast captioners. The job requires a high degree of technical aptitude and typing speed.
- How to Apply: Pass a real-time captioning test with 98% accuracy.
- Pay Rate: Not disclosed
- Website: Aberdeen Broadcast Services
Closed Captioning Job at Home: Earnings, Payments, Expenses, and Taxes
Earning Potential
As a closed captioning freelancer working from home, your earnings will vary depending on the company you work for and the amount of work available.
On average, you can expect to earn about $0.54 to $1.10 per video minute at companies like Rev.com. However, keep in mind that it might take you longer to caption a one-minute video, so your actual earnings per minute worked might be lower.
Some freelance captioning jobs even pay up to $3.50 per program minute for experienced captioners.
At other companies, such as Revis, the average monthly earnings for captioners is around $240, with some earning more than $1,500 per month.
These rates may vary based on factors like captioning experience, language skills, and the company’s project requirements.
Payment Methods and Frequency
Different companies have different payment methods and schedules.
Typically, freelancers receive payments through platforms like PayPal, which makes it convenient to access and manage your funds.
Payments are usually made weekly or biweekly, but this depends on the company’s policies.
For example, Rev.com disburses payments every week, making it easier for you to manage your finances.
Expenses and Taxes
When working as a closed captioner from home, you need to consider the following expenses:
- Equipment: To get started, you’ll need a reliable computer and a high-speed internet connection. You might also need specialized software for closed captioning, which some companies might require you to purchase.
- Workspace: A comfortable and ergonomic workstation is crucial for productivity and health. Invest in a suitable chair, desk, and accessories needed to create a workspace that supports your needs.
As a freelancer, you’ll also be responsible for managing your own taxes.
Keep track of your earnings and expenses throughout the year, as this will help you better anticipate and prepare for any tax obligations.
Working as a closed captioner from home can be a rewarding and flexible opportunity.
By understanding the earning potential, payment methods, and necessary expenses, you’ll be better prepared to succeed in this field.
FAQs about Closed Captioning Jobs at Home
Can I really work from home doing closed captioning?
Yes, many closed captioning jobs can be done from the comfort of your home.
Some companies even specialize in offering remote positions for captioners.
As long as you have a reliable internet connection and the right equipment, you should be able to complete the work remotely.
Do I need any special skills to become a closed captioner?
To be successful in closed captioning, you need excellent typing skills, accuracy, and attention to detail.
Being able to work under pressure is essential, especially for real-time captioning.
A background in transcription, stenography, or a related field can be advantageous in this line of work.
How much can I expect to earn as a closed captioner?
The pay for closed captioning jobs varies depending on factors such as your experience, the type of job (offline vs. real-time), and the company you work for.
In general, captioners can earn anywhere from $10 to $35 per hour.
More experienced captioners or those working in real time may earn higher rates.
Closed Captioning Jobs at Home: Final Thoughts
Working from home as a closed captioner can be a fantastic opportunity for those looking to enjoy a flexible schedule and expand their skill set.
Here are a few key takeaways to help you on your closed captioning journey:
- Consider the type of closed captioning work that suits your abilities and preferences.
There are offline and real-time captioning jobs, and each has its challenges and benefits.
Real-time captioning could be for you if you are good at multitasking and thrive under pressure.
If you prefer working at your own pace without the stress of live television, offline captioning might be right up your alley.
- Be prepared to invest time and effort into acquiring or polishing the necessary skills.
Closed captioning jobs require a high level of proficiency in the English language, as well as a keen attention to detail.
You’ll need to familiarize yourself with the appropriate software and have a reliable computer and high-speed internet connection.
- Explore various job marketplaces and websites to find closed captioning opportunities that align with your skills and goals.
Some excellent places to start include Dotsub, Daily Transcription, and Rev.
These platforms cater to different experience levels and offer various captioning projects for you to choose from.
- Remember that closed captioning jobs can be competitive, and you may need to pass tests and provide samples of your work to get hired.
It’s essential to practice your craft and stay up-to-date with industry standards to remain a valuable candidate in the job market.
Don’t forget that patience and perseverance are key when starting any work-from-home career.
Keep honing your skills; before you know it, you may succeed in closed captioning.
Good luck on your journey!