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Assistant Sound Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Data AI Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... sound engineering judgment and work effectively across highly matrixed, cross-functional, and ...

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Sr. Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

The ideal candidate brings sound engineering judgment, exceptional attention to detail, a ... Client will assist in relocation, if needed. Must have minimum of 10 years' experience within the ...

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Municipal Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$97K - $115K/yr

Develop memorandums and other written technical documents * Assist with review plans ... Exercises sound engineering judgment * Strong ability to convey information through effective and ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Coordinate and complete permit requirements * Assist in supervising construction administration ... Exercises sound engineering judgment * Strong ability to convey information through effective and ...

Senior Civil Engineer

Bolingbrook, IL · On-site

$108K - $140K/yr

Coordinate and complete permit requirements * Assist in supervising construction administration ... Exercises sound engineering judgment * Strong ability to convey information through effective and ...

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... sound architectural recommendations. * Proven ability to mentor and develop engineering talent ...

At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something ... sound architectural recommendations. * Proven ability to mentor and develop engineering talent ...

Compression Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$77K - $104K/yr

Provide sound engineering to determine cost-effective solutions to urgent problems such as ... * Assist with PHMSA audit preparation and response * Provide support for facility audits to ensure ...

Compression Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$77K - $104K/yr

Provide sound engineering to determine cost-effective solutions to urgent problems such as ... * Assist with PHMSA audit preparation and response * Provide support for facility audits to ensure ...

Under the general direction of the Director and Assistant Director of Public Works & Engineering ... Sound engineering judgment * Strong organizational skills * Ethical decision-making * Attention to ...

Under the general direction of the Director and Assistant Director of Public Works & Engineering ... Sound engineering judgment * Strong organizational skills * Ethical decision-making * Attention to ...

Under the general direction of the Director and Assistant Director of Public Works & Engineering ... Sound engineering judgment * Strong organizational skills * Ethical decision-making * Attention to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Assistant Sound Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$34K

$91.4K

$138.6K

How much do assistant sound engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant sound engineer in Chicago, IL is $91,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,600.00 and $107,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant sound engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Sound Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in audio engineering principles, acoustics, and recording techniques, often supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs), audio mixing consoles, microphones, and industry-standard software like Pro Tools is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are critical soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality sound production, efficient collaboration with the audio team, and successful execution of recording or live events.

Are assistant sound engineers well paid?

Assistant sound engineers typically earn lower salaries than lead sound engineers, with entry-level positions often paying around minimum wage to moderate hourly rates. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and the type of production, but they generally serve as a stepping stone in the audio industry. Many assistants also gain valuable skills with equipment and software that can lead to higher-paying roles.

What are some common challenges assistant sound engineers face during live events, and how can they best prepare for them?

Assistant Sound Engineers often encounter challenges such as last-minute equipment issues, unexpected feedback, and adapting to different venue acoustics. To prepare, it's important to thoroughly check all gear before the event, communicate closely with the lead engineer and performers, and develop problem-solving skills to address technical issues swiftly. Shadowing experienced engineers and staying updated on the latest audio technology can also help you adapt quickly and build confidence in high-pressure situations.

What does an assistant sound engineer do?

An Assistant Sound Engineer supports the lead sound engineer during recording, mixing, and live sound sessions. Their responsibilities typically include setting up microphones and audio equipment, running cables, troubleshooting technical issues, and assisting with sound checks. They also help manage session notes, organize files, and ensure the studio runs smoothly. This role is crucial for gaining hands-on experience in audio production and learning industry-standard practices.

Is there a demand for assistant sound engineers?

Assistant sound engineers are in steady demand across live events, recording studios, and film production, especially as audio technology advances. Entry-level positions often require familiarity with audio equipment and basic mixing skills, making the role accessible for those with relevant training or certifications. Employment prospects are generally positive, with opportunities increasing in entertainment, broadcasting, and multimedia industries.

What is the difference between Assistant Sound Engineer vs Sound Technician?

AspectAssistant Sound EngineerSound Technician
CredentialsTypically a degree or diploma in audio engineering or related fieldOften has similar certifications, with some positions requiring specialized training
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live venues, film sets, broadcast stationsConcert halls, recording studios, broadcast facilities, live events
Job RoleSupports the lead engineer, handles setup, basic mixing, equipment maintenanceOperates sound equipment, manages sound levels, troubleshooting during events

Assistant Sound Engineers and Sound Technicians often share similar credentials and work environments. The main difference lies in their roles: assistants support the lead engineer with setup and basic tasks, while sound technicians focus on operating and troubleshooting sound equipment during events. Both roles are essential in audio production and often overlap in industry usage.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Sound Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Sound Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Assistant Sound Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,502 per year, or $44 per hour.

Senior Data AI Engineer

CNA

Chicago, IL • On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

You have a clear vision of where your career can go. And we have the leadership to help you get there. At CNA, we strive to create a culture in which people know they matter and are part of something important, ensuring the abilities of all employees are used to their fullest potential.
Senior Data/AI Engineer is an individual contributor role responsible for designing, building, and modernizing production-grade data pipelines and data solutions across hybrid cloud and on-premise environments. The role applies expertise in AI-assisted development tools, strong engineering judgment, and modern data engineering practices to integrate structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data across complex enterprise ecosystems, leveraging both legacy platforms and cloud-native technologies to deliver scalable, secure, resilient, and high-quality solutions that improve speed to delivery, operational reliability, and business value.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Performs a combination of duties in accordance with departmental guidelines:
  • Serves as a key team member who delivers results and creates value for the CNA brand, customers, and internal stakeholders, while collaborating effectively with external and offshore resources as needed.

  • Demonstrate hands-on experience using AI-assisted development tools to accelerate engineering tasks such as pipeline creation, code generation, testing, and troubleshooting

  • Apply strong engineering judgment when working with AI-generated outputs, ensuring alignment with enterprise standards for quality, security, and data handling

  • Design and build data pipelines that support multi-modal data, including structured, semi-structured, and unstructured sources (e.g., transactional data, documents, and external data feeds)

  • Build and modernize data pipelines across hybrid environments (on-premise and cloud), incorporating automation, observability, and resiliency by design

  • Designs, builds, and enhances large-scale data processing systems and data lakes on Google Cloud Platform, optimizing for computational and storage efficiency while applying strong expertise in data modeling and engineering best practices.

  • Operate effectively in complex, multi-entity and multi-national system landscapes, integrating internal platforms and external data providers

  • Bring familiarity with both legacy enterprise data tools (e.g., ETL/ELT platforms, relational databases) and modern cloud-native data and integration services

  • This role is not focused on experimentation alone - it is focused on applying AI in a disciplined, production-grade engineering environment to drive measurable improvements in delivery speed, quality, and operational reliability

  • May lead or sub-lead the design of complex physical data models, projects and cloud-based data lake constructs including SQL/NoSQL database systems.

  • May lead or sub-lead the creation of integrated data views based on business or analytics requirements.

  • May lead or sub-lead robust unit testing to ensure deliverables match the design and provide expertise to support subsequent release testing.

  • Actively adheres to established quality and reliability standards, and ensures team adheres to the same quality and standards working in an Agile development environment.

  • Research, identifies and implements process improvements that address complex technology gaps. Builds strong knowledge of technology enablers.

  • May lead or sub-lead the design and building of data solutions and applications that enable reporting, analytics, data science, and data management.

  • Maintains professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies. Drives the evolution of CNA application development processes and standards.

May perform additional duties as assigned.
Reporting Relationship
Typically Director or above
Skills, Knowledge & Abilities
  • Strong knowledge of data architecture, relational and NoSQL database concepts, ETL/ELT patterns, dimensional modeling, metadata, and data quality frameworks for enterprise-scale data solutions.

  • Strong experience designing and building scalable data integration and pipeline solutions with a focus on accuracy, observability, resiliency, performance optimization, and ease of consumption.

  • Proficiency in Python and advanced SQL for large-scale, complex datasets, with hands-on experience using AI-assisted development tools to accelerate coding, testing, troubleshooting, and engineering productivity.

  • Strong communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to apply sound engineering judgment and work effectively across highly matrixed, cross-functional, and global teams.

  • Preferred experience building data and analytics solutions on Google Cloud Platform, including services such as BigQuery, Cloud Storage, Dataflow, Dataproc, Pub/Sub, and Cloud Composer, or equivalent cloud-native data technologies.

  • Preferred experience in insurance and financial services, including familiarity with regulatory, risk, underwriting, claims, customer, and operational data domains.

  • Experience with big data and distributed processing technologies, hybrid cloud and on-premise environments, and modern engineering practices including automation, testing, CI/CD, and secure data handling.

  • Working knowledge of business intelligence, reporting, and analytics enablement tools, with an understanding of data governance, lineage, monitoring, and controls needed to support trusted, production-grade data products.

Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree with Master's preferred in Computer Science, Information Technology, related discipline or equivalent work experience.

  • Typically 5+ years of experience in data, analytics or application development.

  • 2+ years of coding proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, Java, SQL).

  • Experience using Agile methods preferred.

  • Applicable certifications preferred (GCP, Data Engineering).

#LI-KJ1 #LI-HYBRID
In certain jurisdictions, CNA is legally required to include a reasonable estimate of the compensation for this role. In District of Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York and Washington, the national base pay range for this job level is $72,000 to $141,000 annually. Salary determinations are based on various factors, including but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and location. CNA offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to help our employees - and their family members - achieve their physical, financial, emotional and social wellbeing goals. For a detailed look at CNA's benefits, please visit cnabenefits.com.
CNA utilizes AI-enabled technology during the recruiting process. For more information, please visit our careers page.
CNA is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in the recruitment process. To request an accommodation, please contact leaveadministration@cna.com