Sound Engineering Technicians
Sound engineering technicians operate and maintain equipment to record, mix, edit, and reproduce audio for films, television, podcasts, sporting events, theater productions, and other media. They work in recording studios, broadcast facilities, concert venues, and on-location film and video sets, handling the technical aspects of sound production from initial recording through final output.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sound engineering technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A sound engineering technician's week typically includes setting up microphones and recording equipment, monitoring audio levels during live or studio recordings, mixing multiple audio tracks, editing recorded material to remove errors or adjust timing, and troubleshooting technical problems. Tasks vary by workplace—someone at a broadcast station may manage live event coverage, while a studio technician might spend hours perfecting the balance of instruments and vocals on a music project.
Who this work suits
Holland code RAC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely enjoy this work if you're drawn to both the technical and creative sides of production. You appreciate solving practical problems with equipment while contributing to artistic projects, and you're comfortable learning specialized audio technology and working collaboratively with producers, musicians, and other production staff.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $74,410 | $115,190 | $138,380 | 290 |
| District of Columbia | $71,030 | $106,630 | $127,160 | 90 |
| New York | $59,200 | $87,510 | $129,460 | 2,050 |
| Nevada | $52,400 | $84,570 | $103,440 | 170 |
| Maryland | $72,960 | $79,990 | $86,740 | 160 |
| California | $53,150 | $78,150 | $100,910 | 4,060 |
| Georgia | $49,160 | $77,010 | $98,590 | 200 |
| Kentucky | $56,730 | $74,100 | $77,490 | 60 |
| Illinois | $40,460 | $73,130 | $99,460 | 570 |
| Indiana | $46,040 | $73,130 | $74,740 | 50 |
| Connecticut | $51,250 | $72,800 | $75,200 | 60 |
| Florida | $47,970 | $70,360 | $102,590 | 590 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified AM Directional Specialist (AMD) — Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc.
- Certified Broadcast Networking Technologist (CBNT) — Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc.
- Certified Broadcast Radio Engineer (CBRE) — Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc.
- Certified Technology Specialist-Installation (CTS-I) — Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association
- Avid Certified Professional: Media Composer — Avid Technology, Inc.
- Certified Audio Engineer (CEA) — Society of Broadcast Engineers, Inc.
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against sound engineering technicians and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-4014.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.