What does an Audio Engineer do?
Audio engineers use machinery and equipment to record, synchronize, mix, or produce sounds including music, voice work, or sound effects. They work on movie productions, music recordings, live shows, and video games. They are responsible for minimizing unwanted sound and regulating volume levels on sound quality. They set up ambient sound microphones, collaborate with producers and performers, provide oversight for live productions, and meet clients’ quality standards. They must maintain and repair equipment and replace it when necessary.
Audio engineers ensure they obtain the desired sound as requested by musicians and record producers using various technical tools. They take sound and edit it by joining parts of songs, adding synthetic sounds, using auto-tune functions, and mixing tracks. Audio engineers often attend post-secondary vocal programs and receive certification.
- Assist engineering department in regards to research and development.
- Inspect builds, grounds, and equipment for unsafe or malfunctioning conditions, preventive maintenance.
- Modify and update existing models, drawings, and documentation to support company needs.
- Assist with estimating labor, capital, and tooling requirements for new product quotations.
- Document and make recommendations for vendor support and consolidate when possible.
- Assist with root cause analysis of machines, gauges, and equipment.
- Work with engineering and production teams for quality, warranty and cost improvement activities.
- Comply with all applicable codes, regulations, governmental agency, and company directives as related to build operations and practice safe work habits.
- Coordinate guidance from internal/external customers to meet customer needs and/or perceptions.
- Bachelor's Degree in business, engineering, or computer science.
- Basic understanding of editing and algorithm design.
- Hands-on experience with a variety of AV systems and programs.
- Strong critical thinking and collaboration abilities
- Comfortable working with projectors, switchers, and a range of operating systems.
Audio Engineer Salaries
Average Base Pay
Audio Engineer Career Path
Learn how to become an Audio Engineer, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Audio Engineer Insights
BAE Systems USA“Everyone I worked with was incredibly friendly and one of the best company cultures I have seen”
Toyota Motor Corporation“My internship was not well planned out and I didn't have much to do while I was there.”
Novo Nordisk“My time as an intern was great and I got to learn from some awesome people.”
Confluent Medical Technologies“I enjoyed my time here and learned many skills but the pay was low for this internship.”
“Being able to work with and see different cultures and types of dance and performance is amazing.”
FOX News“It's a great place to build your resume and get a decent salary as a freelancer.”
Ballibay Summer Arts Camp“The way the camp helps foster creativity within both the adults and campers is truly amazing.”
BAE Systems USA“time even though everyone told me I did good work and multiple coworkers went to bat for me repeatedly.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of audio engineers
An audio engineer spends each day working on the technical aspects of sound, whether that involves recording, mixing, or reproducing. They spend much of their time working with record producers and musicians, helping them blend their ideas and achieve the sound they desire.
One of the benefits of becoming an audio engineer is that they can have a hand in almost every aspect of making sounds. As one of the most vital jobs in music production, an audio engineer offers several diverse sub-career options. They can work as a sound engineer, recording engineer, or mix engineer.
Audio engineers can earn a decent salary. The average base salary for audio engineers is €11 per year in the United States, depending on the location and years of experience. Those who have additional experience and training can earn up to €12 per year.
Working as an audio engineer has its difficulties. It might take some time to get established since it's such a competitive field. They also receive quite a bit of criticism, so audio engineers need to have thick skin and not take issues too personally.