NLE

Term from Editing industry explained for recruiters

NLE stands for Non-Linear Editing, which refers to modern video editing software that lets editors work on any part of a video at any time, unlike old tape-based systems where you had to edit in sequence. When you see "NLE" in a resume, it usually means the person is familiar with digital video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or Avid Media Composer. Think of it like a digital word processor for video - editors can cut, paste, and move around video clips freely, add effects, and make changes without affecting the original footage.

Examples in Resumes

5+ years experience with professional NLE systems including Avid and Premiere

Managed complex projects using Non-Linear Editing software

Expert in multiple NLE platforms for broadcast television

Typical job title: "Video Editors"

Also try searching for:

Video Editor Film Editor Post-Production Editor Digital Media Editor Content Editor Broadcast Editor Post-Production Specialist

Where to Find Video Editors

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage large-scale editing projects with multiple team members?

Expected Answer: Look for answers about project organization, file management, team coordination, and experience with shared storage systems. They should mention version control and backup strategies.

Q: How do you handle tight deadlines with complex projects?

Expected Answer: Should discuss prioritization, efficient workflows, time management strategies, and experience meeting broadcast or client deadlines while maintaining quality.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What is your process for organizing raw footage when starting a new project?

Expected Answer: Should explain their system for importing, labeling, and organizing media files, creating backup copies, and setting up project folders.

Q: How do you ensure smooth collaboration with directors and producers?

Expected Answer: Should discuss communication skills, ability to accept feedback, understanding of revision processes, and experience with different delivery formats.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What editing software are you familiar with?

Expected Answer: Should be able to name major editing platforms they've worked with and describe basic familiarity with industry-standard software.

Q: Can you explain your basic workflow when editing a simple video?

Expected Answer: Should describe the process from importing footage to basic cutting, adding transitions, and exporting the final product.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic video cutting and assembly
  • Understanding of common video formats
  • Basic audio adjustments
  • Simple transitions and effects

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Advanced editing techniques
  • Color correction
  • Complex audio editing
  • Multiple software proficiency

Senior (5+ years)

  • Project management
  • Team leadership
  • Advanced effects and motion graphics
  • Broadcast standards compliance

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of current industry-standard editing software
  • Unable to describe basic editing workflow
  • No experience with file management or organization
  • Lack of experience with common video formats and codecs