Sound Engineer Job Description

Think about your typical sound engineer: busy, driven to meet objectives, and practical to a tee. As such, your sound engineer job description should be brief, high-level, specific, and realistic. Start by introducing your company. Then, outline your expectations. Once you’ve described the work environment, clearly spell out the qualifications, duties, and objectives. Go ahead and set the bar high — you’re more likely to get high-quality candidates that way. Your job description should convey the day-to-day and long-term impact of the position, and avoid long-winded detail or empty jargon.

Sample sound engineer job description

At [Company X], sound engineers are the bedrock behind every recording we produce and release. They ensure that our audio output meets the high-quality standards our organization is known for. To that end, the sound engineer will leverage existing knowledge of audio hardware, mixing, and mastering techniques to develop crisp sound effects, address any sound issues, and work with producers to align on overall creative direction. They will carry the torch of professionalism at [Company X], working with performers to ensure a culture of creativity and open communication.

Objectives of this role

Align [Company X] with current sound engineering trends
Become a point person for all sound-related inquiries
Mentor junior sound engineers to strengthen [Company X]’s future talent pipeline
Elevate the quality and consistency of [Company X]’s audio output
Introduce the organization to innovative audio technology and troubleshooting methods
Collaborate with video, lighting, and camera experts to masterfully sync audio with imagery

Responsibilities

Develop sound requirements for recordings and performances
Set up and maintain audio equipment as necessary
Edit, mix, and master live and recorded audio
Overcome any roadblocks to performer and producer creativity
Leverage knowledge to meet and surpass expected audio standards
Test audio in a variety of hardware configurations and audio settings

Skills and qualifications

Impeccable ear for great sound
Extensive knowledge of modern audio equipment and software
Significant experience with audio recording, editing, and mixing
Excellent communication skills for giving and receiving instructions
Working knowledge of audio software such as Pro Tools
Capable of mixing live audio in real time

Preferred qualifications

History of building fruitful relationships with producers and performers
Deep familiarity with sound troubleshooting
Comprehensive portfolio of sound engineering projects
Keen understanding of music theory
Expertise in at least one sound engineering technique
Knowledge of proper audio-video synchronization techniques

How to write a sound engineer job description