Explore This Path

Sound Engineering Technician

💰 Earn $49K-$120K

📚 Vocational Training

⏱️ 12–24 Month Training

📈 -1.7% Job Growth

Perfect for those passionate about creating immersive audio experiences.
Shape the soundscape of films, music, and live events, impacting audiences worldwide.
Blend art and technology to craft unique auditory experiences.

What Sound Engineering Technicians DoAssemble 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.

Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording media, using recording equipment.
Confer with producers, performers, and others to determine and achieve the desired sound for a production, such as a musical recording or a film.
Separate instruments, vocals, and other sounds, and combine sounds during the mixing or postproduction stage.
Regulate volume level and sound quality during recording sessions, using control consoles.
Set up, test, and adjust recording equipment for recording sessions and live performances.

Sound Engineering Technicians Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationVocational Training

Career ProspectsShaky (Decreasing by 1-5%)

Training Time1 to 2 years

Job Openings1,200 Annually

Median Earnings

$78,020 in California

$66,430 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Being creative or artistic
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Speaking
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Judgment and Decision Making
Social Perceptiveness

Go Deeper: Sound Engineering Technicians Explained

Sound Engineering TechnicianExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

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