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Audio Design Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Audio Fit

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

... Design, Human Factors, Biomechanics, Human Engineering, Soft Goods, and Acoustics. Our attention to detail directly influences products loved by millions. Description As a member of the Audio Fit PD ...

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Audio Fit

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

... Design, Human Factors, Biomechanics, Human Engineering, Soft Goods, and Acoustics. Our attention to detail directly influences products loved by millions. Description As a member of the Audio Fit PD ...

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Beats

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $167K/yr

The Beats Product Design team is seeking a product design engineer to design and develop new ... Experience with component modules (audio drivers, connectors, batteries, electronics packaging ...

Apple

Audio PD Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$216K - $324K/yr

We are looking for Product Design Engineers to help take Airpods to the next level. Could this be you? Description As a member of our Audio Product Design team, you would conceive, design, test ...

OpenAI

Audiovisual Design Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$251K - $264K/yr

... room audio visual and video conferencing infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have expert-level experience in audiovisual design, programming and implementation of enterprise AV systems and ...

Syntiant

Digital Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Develop low-power audio signal processing architectures. Qualifications, Education, and Experience Required: * Advanced Degree in electronic engineering or related field. * 8+ years of proven track ...

Syntiant

Digital Design Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$190K - $240K/yr

Develop low-power audio signal processing architectures. Qualifications, Education, and Experience Required: * Advanced Degree in electronic engineering or related field. * 8+ years of proven track ...

Syntiant

Digital Design Engineer

San Diego, CA

$190K - $240K/yr

Develop low-power audio signal processing architectures. Qualifications, Education, and Experience Required: * Advanced Degree in electronic engineering or related field. * 8+ years of proven track ...

Hark

Product Design Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $300K/yr

About the Role We're hiring a Product Design Engineer to help shape the physical form of our AI ... Experience integrating displays, audio modules etc. Compensation The US base salary range for this ...

AlfaTech

Design Engineer, Technology

San Jose, CA · On-site

$95K - $115K/yr

Design Engineer, Technology About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions ... This will include but is not limited to Low Voltage, Audio Visual, Security, and Wireless systems.

Hark

Product Design Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$120K - $300K/yr

About the Role We're hiring a Product Design Engineer to help shape the physical form of our AI ... Experience integrating displays, audio modules etc. Compensation The US base salary range for this ...

AlfaTech

Design Engineer, Technology

San Jose, CA

$95K - $115K/yr

Design Engineer, Technology About Us At AlfaTech we believe in more than just engineering solutions ... This will include but is not limited to Low Voltage, Audio Visual, Security, and Wireless systems.

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Beats

Los Angeles, CA

$142K - $263K/yr

Experience with component modules (audio drivers, connectors, batteries, electronics packaging ... Engineering 3D CAD Expertise 2+ years of product design experience, or equivalent Experience in ...

iFlow Inc

Senior AV Design & Operations Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$86K - $113K/yr

Job Title: Senior AV Design & Operations Engineer Location: Irvine ,CA Duration: 8 Months ... Responsible for configuring, operating, and maintaining Audio-Visual (AV) equipment and solutions ...

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All JobsAudio Design Engineer JobsAudio Design Engineer Jobs in California

Audio Design Engineer information

See California salary details

$40K

$87K

$156.4K

How much do audio design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for audio design engineer in California is $86,995.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an audio design engineer do?

An Audio Design Engineer is responsible for creating, developing, and optimizing audio systems and components used in various products such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, and professional audio equipment. They work on tasks such as designing loudspeakers, microphones, amplifiers, and digital audio processing algorithms. These engineers often collaborate with other engineering teams to ensure that sound quality meets the desired standards and specifications. Their role may also involve testing prototypes, troubleshooting audio issues, and implementing improvements based on feedback.

What is the difference between Audio Design Engineer vs Audio Software Engineer?

AspectAudio Design EngineerAudio Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Audio Engineering, Sound Design, or related fieldsBachelor's in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, sound labs, hardware developmentSoftware development firms, tech companies, audio app development
Industry UsageMusic, film, gaming, broadcastMusic apps, digital audio workstations, audio processing software

Audio Design Engineers focus on creating and optimizing audio hardware and sound systems, while Audio Software Engineers develop software solutions for audio processing and applications. Both roles require technical skills but differ mainly in their focus on hardware versus software development within the audio industry.

What are some common challenges faced by audio design engineers when working on cross-functional teams?

Audio Design Engineers often collaborate closely with hardware, software, and product design teams to integrate sound solutions effectively. A common challenge is aligning audio requirements with the constraints and timelines of other departments, which can require flexibility and strong communication skills. Ensuring that audio quality is maintained without compromising on size, power, or cost can also be demanding. Successful Audio Design Engineers proactively share feedback, adapt to evolving project needs, and work collaboratively to create the best user experience.

How much do audio design engineers make?

Audio design engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and industry. Salaries can vary based on skills in audio software, hardware knowledge, and certifications, with those in senior roles or specialized fields earning higher compensation.

Is there a demand for audio design engineers?

The demand for audio design engineers is strong in industries such as entertainment, gaming, virtual reality, and consumer electronics, where high-quality sound design is essential. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as technology advances and companies seek professionals skilled in audio software, hardware, and digital signal processing. Staying current with industry tools and certifications can enhance job prospects in this field.

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

To thrive as an Audio Design Engineer, you need a strong background in acoustics, audio signal processing, and electronic engineering, usually supported by a relevant degree. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs), signal analysis software, and industry-standard audio hardware is typically required, along with certifications like AVIXA CTS or Dante. Creativity, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help foster innovation and collaboration on complex audio projects. These skills and qualities are crucial to delivering high-quality audio solutions that meet technical and client requirements in diverse environments.
What are popular job titles related to Audio Design Engineer jobs in California? For Audio Design Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Audio Design Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Audio Design Engineer jobs in California are:
Audio Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Audio Design Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $86,995 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

Product Design Engineer - Audio Fit

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

$159K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Apple rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 676 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

At Apple, we strive to invent the next generation of world-class consumer electronics. Sound is a vital part of our devices and customer experience. Our Audio Product Design (PD) team creates innovations that enhance music enjoyment, optimize communication, and refine sound across Apple's wearable audio product line.
The Audio Fit PD team works to ensure optimal comfort, fit, stability, and performance across the population for our AirPods products. We specialize in mechanical design, analysis, and prototyping, collaborating closely with teams such as Industrial Design, Human Factors, Biomechanics, Human Engineering, Soft Goods, and Acoustics. Our attention to detail directly influences products loved by millions.
Description
As a member of the Audio Fit PD team, you will contribute throughout the product development cycle, including:
*Early concept ideation, prototyping, and testing to enhance AirPods ergonomics
*Designing, executing, and analyzing user studies to inform product specifications for ergonomics-related efforts
*Design development and CAD modeling
*Detailed design, drafting, and statistical experiments
*You will work with research, design, and engineering teams to create architectures that meet product goals while delivering exceptional user comfort. Occasional domestic and international travel (10%+) is required.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or Biomedical Engineering
3+ years of product design experience or equivalent
Proven experience in cross-functional, technical team environments
Experience in at least one area related to human factors (biomechanics, anthropometry, ergonomics, wearables, prosthetics, humanoid robotics, etc)
Proficiency in 3D CAD software
Proficiency in rapid prototyping and assembly of prototypes for early-stage testing
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including mechanical engineering theory and statistical tools
Familiarity with formal experimental design (DOE)
Understanding of engineering materials and manufacturing processes
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Adaptable to fast-paced, dynamic environments
Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (10%+)
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with wearables or ergonomically-sensitive products
Experience with ear and head anatomy, and anthropometric data analysis
Hands on use of rapid prototyping and 3d scanning for fit, comfort, and usability evaluations
Direct experience designing, conducting, and analyzing user studies or simulations
Experience in consumer electronics, including industrial design, sensors, acoustics, PCBs, silicon, antennas, batteries, and thermal systems
Expertise in plastic and metal part design
Has taken at least one product from concept to completion as a PD / mechanical engineer
Familiarity with DFM, DFA, statistical tolerance analysis, GD&T, and FEA analysis
Familiarity working with overseas manufacturers
Knowledge of audio component modules and designing audio subsystems
Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)

What Apple employees say

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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