Sound Technician

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Work Tasks

SOUND TECHNICIANS set up, operate, and maintain a wide variety of electrical and electronic equipment used in radio and television broadcasts, concerts, plays, musical recordings, television shows, and movies. Sound technicians set up and operate audio and video equipment and control panels that record, synchronize, mix, or reproduce music, voices, or sound effects. Technicians determine the acoustics of the recording studio and adjust the controls to specified levels. Sound technicians direct the installation of microphones and amplifiers for use in sound pickup. They copy and edit recordings, using recording and editing equipment.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $46,000 average per year ($22.00 per hour)
• A medium occupation (64,100 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (1.3% per year)

Entry Requirements

The best way to prepare for a SOUND TECHNICIAN job is to obtain technical school, community college, or college training in broadcast technology, engineering, or electronics. Prospective technicians should take high school courses in mathematics, physics, and electronics. Building electronic equipment from hobby kits and operating ham or amateur radios is good experience, as is working in college radio and television stations. Beginning sound technicians learn their skills on the job from experienced technicians and supervisors. They often begin their careers in small stations and when they become experienced move to a larger one.