If you’re passionate about music and have an ear for sound, a career as a sound engineer could be the perfect fit for you. Sound engineering is a specialized field that involves mixing, recording, and manipulating sound for various types of media. It’s a highly sought-after profession in the music industry, film industry, television industry, and even gaming industry. This blog post will discuss how to make a living as a sound engineer. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) the median pay for Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians is $53,960.
What Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians Do
Duties
Broadcast, sound, and video technicians typically do the following:
- Operate, monitor, and adjust audio, video, sound, lighting, and broadcast equipment to ensure consistent quality
- Set up and take down equipment for events and live performances
- Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording equipment or computers, sometimes using complex software
- Synchronize sounds and dialogue with action taking place on television or in movie productions
- Convert video and audio records to digital formats for editing on computers
- Install audio, video, and lighting equipment in hotels, offices, and schools
- Report any problems that arise with complex equipment and make routine repairs
- Keep records of recordings and equipment used
These workers may be called broadcast or sound engineering technicians, operators, or engineers. They set up and operate audio and video equipment, and the kind of equipment they use may depend on the particular type of technician or industry. At smaller radio and television stations, broadcast, sound, and video technicians may have more responsibilities. At larger stations, they may do more specialized work, although their job assignments may vary from day to day.
Gain Knowledge and Experience
One of the most important aspects of becoming a successful sound engineer is to gain knowledge and experience. Get formal education related to sound engineering and acquire hands-on experience with audio equipment. A good way to start is by volunteering or interning at a recording studio or live sound company. By gaining real-world experience, you can develop your skills and gain practical knowledge.
Develop a Portfolio
To showcase your talent, start building a portfolio as a sound engineer. Whether it’s working on a short film or recording a demo for an aspiring artist, the goal is to demonstrate your capabilities and creativity. Having a portfolio is important, as it will help showcase your skills to potential employers and clients.
Network with Industry Professionals
Networking is an essential part of making a living as a sound engineer. While building your portfolio and gaining experience, start attending industry events and connect with other professionals. By building relationships with others in the industry, you can learn about new job opportunities or get a referral for a job. Being well-connected can lead to more work and more opportunities.
Understand the Business Side of Things
Sound engineering is a business, so it’s essential to understand the business side of things. You need to know the industry standards, budgets, contracts, and copyright rules. Understanding this side of the business will help you navigate conversations with clients and make more informed decisions about your career.
Embrace Technology
In the ever-evolving world, technology plays an essential role for sound engineers. It is crucial to stay updated on the latest trends in sound engineering software and hardware to remain competitive in the industry. This includes knowledge of Digital Audio Workstations, Plugins, and other technologies used in the field. Stay up to date with all significant changes in technology trends to maintain a competitive edge.
Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations
Although it is not required by most employers, voluntary certification may offer advantages in getting a job as a broadcast or sound engineering technician. Certification tells employers that the technician meets certain industry standards and has kept up to date with new technologies.
The Society of Broadcast Engineers offers operator level, engineering level, broadcast networking, and specialist certifications. Most of these certifications require passing an exam.
The Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association offers the general Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) credential as well as the design CTS and installation CTS. All three credentials require passing an exam and are valid for 3 years.
Making a living as a sound engineer takes time, effort, and dedication. However, if you are passionate about music, technology, and sound, it can be an incredibly rewarding career. To become successful in this field, gain knowledge and experience, develop a portfolio, network with other professionals, understand the business side of things, and embrace technology. Follow these tips, and you could be on your way to a successful career as a sound engineer.
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Images courtesy of Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians,
at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/broadcast-and-sound-engineering-technicians.htm
