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Sound Engineer Resume Examples

Sound Engineers work with music artists and provide services such as recording, editing and mixing audio. Work activities seen on well-written Sound Engineer resume examples include adjusting equipment, supporting artists, taking part in recording sessions, and consulting with clients. Essential qualifications include musical talent, post-production expertise, creativity, accuracy, customer service skills, time management, and organization. Based on our collection of example resumes, most Sound Engineers have completed a special program in technical or vocational school.

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Sound Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Wherever there is a need to produce better audio, a sound engineer might be found. To accomplish their objectives, sound engineers are often called upon to perform these core tasks:

Maintaining Equipment Sound engineers set up and take down audio equipment. They experiment with placement and test everything out to achieve the best results. They also must be mindful of safety concerns so that performers and audience members do not trip over cords or knock over equipment.

Contribute to Performances During live events, sound engineers produce and alter sound to enhance what is going on. For instance, they might employ sound effects in a certain scene or adjust microphones so a speaker can be better heard. If a sound-related problem arises, sound engineers must think on their feet to quickly resolve the situation, such as by fixing equipment or getting someone a different microphone.

Recording Sound engineers sometimes work as part of an audiovisual team to capture events such as graduation ceremonies, recitals, and weddings. They determine the best places in which to position microphones and other sound equipment to capture voices and reduce background noise. Sound engineers also record music or voices directly in a studio for products such as audiobooks, films, and CDs.

Mixing and Editing Sound engineers enhance a final product, often in conjunction with others. For example, a sound engineer may work with a singer to layer music to achieve a certain effect.

Making Recommendations Because of their expertise, employers often ask their sound engineers to research new audio products and make suggestions as to which might be worthwhile for the company to purchase. Some sound engineers may act as independent consultants who examine the needs of clients, such as a dance club or a conference facility, and upgrade their sound systems accordingly.

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Sound Engineer Skills

While sound engineers must possess technical knowledge, they also should be creative individuals with an exceptional ear for what sounds work well together. Other skills frequently exhibited by successful sound engineers include:
  • Solving problems when equipment fails or things aren't going as planned
  • Communicating effectively to express artistic vision and to provide clear directions
  • Listening carefully both to the sounds being created and to other people's suggestions for changes and improvements
  • Working well with others since productions require teamwork
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Sound Engineer Education and Training

Virtually all sound engineers hold at least a high school diploma. Most do post-secondary coursework to earn a vocational certificate or an associate's degree. Common courses include math, physics, electronics, and computers as well as classes that provide hands-on experience with sound equipment. Employers also look favorably on active membership in one's high school or college audiovisual club. Because technology changes quickly, sound engineers should expect to continue learning throughout their career in order for their skills to be relevant.
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Sound Engineer Salary

The median annual salary for sound engineers, categorized by the BLS as "sound engineering technicians," is $53,680. Sound engineers in the 10th percentile earn about $24,400 a year, and the highest paid make in excess of $121,600 a year. Sound engineers in Washington, New York, and Nevada make the highest median salaries in the U.S. - $73,740, $71,550, and $70,760, respectively.
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Sound Engineer Resources

Career decisions aren't easy to make, so gain as much information as you can before embarking on a given path. Here are some groups and books that can help you learn more about becoming a sound engineer:

Audio Engineering Society - A go-to source for all things sound-related, this professional society has been devoted to audio technology since 1948. From the latest advances in the industry to networking opportunities, aspiring sound engineers are bound to find useful information on its website.

The Society of Broadcast Engineers - Another well-established organization, this group has a particular interest in education and training to keep members at the top of their game.

AVIXA - Also known as the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association, this international trade association promotes itself as "a hub for professional collaboration, information, and community, and the leading resource for AV standards, certification, training, market intelligence and thought leadership."

Audio Made Easy: Or How to Be a Sound Engineer without Really Trying - One reviewer calls this book "perfect for beginners, with a touch of humor." Take a look at it for a basic introduction on what sound engineering is about.

Sound Design Live: Build Your Career as a Sound Engineer - "It's like sitting down and having coffee with 20 AV professionals at the same time," raves one reader of the eBook. If you're interested in gaining insight into the profession from many different angles, this is your source.

Handbook for Sound Engineers - A serious, comprehensive reference for those truly interested in the field, this book often gets touted as a "must read" for all who work in audio.

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