Sound Engineering Technician

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  Career Profile

Sound Engineering Technician

What they do

Assemble and operate equipment to record, synchronize, mix, edit, or reproduce sound, including music, voices, or sound effects, for theater, video, film, television, podcasts, sporting events, and other productions.

Also Called: Audio Engineer, Audio Operator, Mastering Engineer, Mixer, Mixing Engineer, Recording Engineer, Sound Editor, Sound Engineer, Sound Technician, Studio Engineer, Audio Engineer, Audio Operator, Mastering Engineer, Mixer, Mixing Engineer, Recording Engineer, Sound Editor, Sound Engineer, Sound Technician, Studio Engineer

$36,160
Starting Salary (2023)
$59,430
Median Salary (2023)
-1.2%
Projected Job Growth
14,600
Employment (2022)

Typical Tasks

Confer with producers, performers, and others to determine and achieve the desired sound for a production, such as a musical recording or a film.
Prepare for recording sessions by performing such activities as selecting and setting up microphones.
Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording media, using recording equipment.
Regulate volume level and sound quality during recording sessions, using control consoles.
Report equipment problems and ensure that required repairs are made.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Artistic
Conceptual, Creative Work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Dependability
Attention to Detail
Cooperation
Stress Tolerance
Adaptability/Flexibility
Achievement/Effort

What key skills are needed for this job?

Active Listening
Speaking
Reading Comprehension
Writing
Complex Problem Solving
Critical Thinking

Expected Knowledge

Computers and Electronics
Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Engineering and Technology
Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Communications and Media
Knowledge of media production, communication, and dissemination techniques and methods. This includes alternative ways to inform and entertain via written, oral, and visual media.

Common Activities

Working with Computers
Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Thinking Creatively
Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

More Info

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