Sound Engineering Technicians

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About the Job

Operate machines and equipment to record, synchronize, mix, or reproduce music, voices, or sound effects in sporting arenas, theater productions, recording studios, or movie and video productions.

It is also Called

  • Acoustical Engineer
  • Audio Engineer
  • Audio Operator
  • Audio Production Manager
  • Audio Recording Engineer
  • Broadcast Engineer
  • Broadcast Technician
  • Director
  • Disc Recordist
  • Dub Room Engineer

What They Do

  • Synchronize and equalize prerecorded dialogue, music, and sound effects with visual action of motion pictures or television productions, using control consoles.
  • Keep logs of recordings.
  • Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording media, using recording equipment.
  • Create musical instrument digital interface programs for music projects, commercials, or film postproduction.
  • Report equipment problems and ensure that required repairs are made.
  • Tear down equipment after event completion.
  • Confer with producers, performers, and others to determine and achieve the desired sound for a production, such as a musical recording or a film.
  • Reproduce and duplicate sound recordings from original recording media, using sound editing and duplication equipment.
  • Prepare for recording sessions by performing activities such as selecting and setting up microphones.
  • Separate instruments, vocals, and other sounds, and combine sounds later during the mixing or postproduction stage.

Interests

People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: RA.

This means people who work in this occupation generally have Realistic interests, but also prefer Artistic environments.

Work Values

People who work in this occupation generally prize Independence, but also value Relationships and Achievement in their jobs.

Things They Need to Know

  • Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
  • 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.
  • Customer and Personal Service - Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction.
  • 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.
  • Fine Arts - Knowledge of the theory and techniques required to compose, produce, and perform works of music, dance, visual arts, drama, and sculpture.

Things They Need to Be Able to Do

  • Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Education Required

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.

LMI Region

Wages

In 2012, the average annual wage in Washington was $58,520.00 with most people making between $28,720.00 and $101,690.00

Outlook

0.80%
avg. annual growth

During 2008, this occupation employed approximately 500 people in Washington. It is projected that there will be 530 employed in 2018.

This occupation will have about 4 openings due to growth and about 16 replacement openings for approximately 20 total annual openings.