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Associate Sound Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Nailor Industries

CAD Designer / Drafter

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

... Sound Attenuators, Air Handling Units, and Filter Housings. Our operations include a growing ... Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from 2-year College or Technical School; * Working ...

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Conagra Brands

Motion Designer & Video Editor

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$64K - $95K/yr

Reporting to our Manager of Design Services (Associate Creative Director), you will create engaging ... sound, and aligned with brand standards. Working closely with cross-functional creative and ...

CONAGRA

Motion Designer & Video Editor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$64K - $95K/yr

Reporting to our Manager of Design Services (Associate Creative Director), you will create engaging ... sound, and aligned with brand standards. Working closely with cross-functional creative and ...

langan

CAD Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Associate's degree, certification, or equivalent experience in drafting, civil technology ... Sound judgment capability. #LI-AS1 Langan provides a rich array of programs and benefits to help ...

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All JobsAssociate Sound Designer JobsAssociate Sound Designer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Sound Designer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$20.1K

$60.3K

$90.1K

How much do associate sound designer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate sound designer in Chicago, IL is $60,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $70,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate sound designer?

Associate Sound Designers are audio professionals who assist lead sound designers in creating and implementing the audio elements of a production, such as video games, films, or theater shows. Their responsibilities include recording, editing, and mixing sound effects, dialogue, and music, as well as helping with technical setup and troubleshooting. They often collaborate with other members of the audio and production teams to ensure the final product meets creative and technical standards. This role is typically considered an entry-level or early-career position in the sound design field, offering opportunities for skill development and advancement.

What are the main collaboration points between an associate sound designer and other departments during a game development project?

As an Associate Sound Designer, you'll frequently collaborate with game designers, programmers, and artists to ensure audio seamlessly integrates with gameplay and visuals. You'll attend meetings to review project updates, share audio concepts, and gather feedback to refine sound assets. Close communication with the programming team is essential for implementing audio triggers and resolving technical issues, while regular syncs with the art team help maintain a consistent atmosphere and style. Being proactive in cross-departmental communication not only enhances the game's audio experience but also builds strong professional relationships within the studio.

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

To thrive as an Associate Sound Designer, you need a solid understanding of audio production, sound editing, and acoustics, often supported by a degree in audio engineering or a related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Ableton Live, as well as sound libraries and audio middleware such as FMOD or Wwise, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help you deliver immersive soundscapes and work effectively with creative teams. These skills ensure high-quality audio production that enhances the overall experience of media projects.

What is the difference between Associate Sound Designer vs Sound Designer?

AspectAssociate Sound DesignerSound Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in audio production, sound design, or related fieldSame as Associate, often with additional experience or portfolio
Work EnvironmentAssist in sound creation, editing, and implementation under supervisionLead sound creation, design, and implementation independently or with a team
Industry UsageUsed in film, TV, video games, and theater as entry to mid-level rolesSenior or lead roles in similar industries

The main difference between an Associate Sound Designer and a Sound Designer lies in experience and responsibility. An Associate Sound Designer typically supports and assists in sound projects, gaining experience, while a Sound Designer takes on more independent, creative, and leadership roles in sound design projects.

How much do sound designers get paid?

Sound designers typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working on major projects or in high-demand markets can earn higher salaries. Skills in audio editing software and a strong portfolio can influence earning potential.

How much is an Associate Sound Designer paid?

An Associate Sound Designer typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry sector. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on high-profile projects can earn more. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for skill development with audio editing tools like Pro Tools or Logic Pro.

Is sound design in demand?

Sound design is in demand across industries such as film, television, video games, and virtual reality, with growth driven by increasing multimedia content production. Skilled sound designers who are proficient with digital audio workstations and sound editing tools are sought after, especially those with experience in immersive audio and post-production environments.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Associate Sound Designer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Associate Sound Designer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Associate Sound Designer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Associate Sound Designer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Associate Sound Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Sound Designer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,326 per year, or $29 per hour.

CAD Designer / Drafter

Nailor Industries, Inc.

Cicero, IL • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

CAD Designer / Drafter
Location: Chicago, IL
Company Overview
Safe Air Dowco, a Nailor Industries, Inc. company, is known for our industry-leading, customer-focused approach to providing innovative commercial and industrial HVAC products. Safe Air manufactures a unique and comprehensive line of products including Air Control & Distribution products, VAV Terminal Units, Green Building products, Fan Coil Units, Electric Duct Heaters, Sound Attenuators, Air Handling Units, and Filter Housings.
Our operations include a growing presence in Chicago, IL, supporting our manufacturing and distribution network across multiple locations, with a workforce of dedicated and skilled employees.
Position Summary
We are currently seeking an experienced CAD Designer/Drafter. We are looking for stable, detail-oriented, and hardworking individuals. Our company offers excellent benefits and competitive salary packages.
Responsabilities:
  • Creating 3D models of new/modified sheet metal designs for inclusion in documentation for Design Engineering purposes.
  • Checking drawing packages for proper layout and dimensioning.
  • Review sales order documentation and support of one or more product lines.
  • Participate in design teams with engineers and other departments. Interface with manufacturing as required for completing design work.
  • Duties occasionally include some building of prototypes for new engineering designs.
  • Complete Engineering Change Notices (ECN) and use databases to manage technical documentation.

Qualifications:
  • 3 to 5 years of relevant experience.
  • Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from 2-year College or Technical School;
  • Working knowledge of MS Office products.
  • Proficient in the use of 3D modeling program (Solid Edge preferred).
  • General knowledge of design, manufacturing, and assembly preferably with sheet metal.

Work Environment:
  • On-site role based in Chicago, IL
  • Collaborative, team-oriented environment
  • Fast-paced manufacturing and production setting

Apply