Audio Engineering

Audio Engineers utilize electronic equipment to provide sound for live radio or television broadcasts, live productions such as concerts and sporting events, or recorded productions for television and film. Occupations within the field include: broadcast technicians who operate and maintain sound equipment and cameras, sound engineers who record and mix music or voices in studios, and radio operators who specialize in communication tools for military, police, or businesses.

Operators commonly work in a studio setting where records are produced or perhaps in a studio where live broadcasts are transmitted. Some have regular business hours, but many work evenings, nights or weekends because especially in the news media they must be ready to report at any time. Those working in these professions for emergency services must be on call and able to work any time of the day or night.

Audio Engineers can receive formal training at technical schools or universities and an associate’s degree is common before starting working in this field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary is $34,000. Advancement opportunities are available with experience on the job and management or supervisory skills.