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Audio Design Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

National Capitol Contracting (NCC)

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Audio Visual System Programmer

Arlington, VA · On-site

Work with the AV Engineer to evaluate, modernize, and support the AV systems of the 400+ classrooms ... Programming experience with C#, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS; familiarity with Unity3D and game design ...

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GHD

Audiovisual System Designer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

$38.50 - $64/hr

Our Technology Design and Consulting team in Chantilly, VA is looking for an Audiovisual System ... You'll produce detailed engineering drawings and specifications, coordinate with mechanical ...

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Audio Design Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$45.9K

$99.8K

$179.5K

How much do audio design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for audio design engineer in Washington is $99,838.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,000.00 and $111,600.00 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 engineers make $500,000?

Senior audio design engineers, especially those working in high-paying industries like gaming, film, or specialized audio technology, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills in digital signal processing, and often leadership roles or working for large corporations or successful startups.

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.

Do audio engineers get paid well?

Audio design engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals working in film, gaming, or broadcast often earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills and certifications. Overall, the role offers the potential for good compensation 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.

Do sound designers get paid well?

Sound designers, including those working as audio design engineers, can earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, industry, and location. Entry-level positions typically start lower, while experienced professionals working in film, gaming, or advertising can earn higher wages, often supplemented by specialized skills and industry certifications.

Is there a high demand for audio engineers?

The demand for audio design engineers is strong in industries such as entertainment, gaming, and media production, with growth driven by advancements in technology and multimedia content. Skills in digital audio workstations, sound editing, and acoustics are highly valued, and employment opportunities are expected to increase as audio technology becomes more integrated into various sectors.

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 Washington? For Audio Design Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Audio Design Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Audio Design Engineer jobs in Washington are:
Audio Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Audio Design Engineer job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,838 per year, or $48 per hour.
Design Engineer 3 - Tysons, VA

Design Engineer 3 - Tysons, VA

M.C. Dean, Inc

Tysons, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

M.C. Dean rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

208th of 357 rated engineering

Job description

Overview
About M.C. Dean
M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. With over 9,000 employees, our capabilities span electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life safety, automation and controls, audiovisual, and IT systems. Headquarters in Tysons, Virginia, M.C. Dean delivers resilient, secure, and innovative power and technology solutions through engineering expertise and smart systems integration.
Why Join Us?
Our people are passionate about engineering innovation that improves lives and drives impactful change. Guided by our core values-agility, expertise, and trust-we foster a collaborative and forward-thinking work environment. At M.C. Dean, we are committed to building the next generation of technical leaders in electrical, engineering, and cybersecurity industries.
We are seeking a Design Engineer 3 to join our Security and Electronic Systems (SES) business Unit. As part of (SES) Strategic Business Unit you will be part of a team that designs, engineers, integrates, operates and maintains electronic security services inclusive of intrusion detection, access control, biometric authentication, video surveillance, audio visual, it systems, perimeter defense and command and control systems for federal, local and commercial customers across high-growth markets.
Responsibilities
What you'll do:
  • Support review of customer requirements and assess design constraints in order to develop a design which meets the needs of the customer.
  • Plan for and participate in Electronic Security System (ESS) and physical security system site surveys during all phases of projects.
  • Support development of security system Engineering Installation Design Packages including the creation of Block Diagrams, Riser Diagrams, Mounting, and Wiring Details in AutoCAD.
  • Support creation of project and device schedules with the Engineering Installation Design Packages.
  • Support creation of cable, device, and Performance Verification Test (PVT) plans.
  • Support planning for and participate in Pre-Installation Testing and Checkout (PITCO) processes including system programming, integration testing, and equipment build outs.
  • Complete various calculations, including but not limited to power, heat, voltage drop, conduit sizing and bandwidth.
  • Assist with development of sequence of operations, compliance matrices, and other project support documentation.
  • Apply understanding of related industry documentation such as NEC, NFPA, UL Code (294, 1076, and 2050), ICD 705, NISPOM.
  • Participate in new technology/product evaluations and recommendations.
  • Effectively communicate the status of all work and report roadblocks early and directly to project and divisional management.
  • Support the updating, tracking, and close out all engineering changes and issues, working in coordination with the assigned Project Manager or Engineering Manager.
  • Regularly attend and participate in internal and client review/status update meetings.
  • Interface with customer stakeholders to answer questions and present design solutions; support resolution of project issues working in conjunction with the Engineering Manager.
  • Assist in the bids and proposals process to capture new work.

Qualifications
Clearance/Citizen Type: Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and may meet eligibility requirements, including U.S. Citizenship, for access to classified information; Ability to obtain a TS/SCI w/ Poly
Education/Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree in a technical/engineering related discipline, such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or similar.
  • 5+ years of progressive experience in engineering with a Bachelor's Degree.
  • Experience with electronic security and IT systems desired.
  • Familiarity with networking concepts, including use of routing protocols and switching technologies, LAN/WAN medias and protocols, and firewall configuration and protocols desired.
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced collaborative environment.
  • Ability to effectively communicate with various customers, vendors and peers
  • Ability to effectively use AutoCAD or another computer aided drafting/modeling tool desired.
  • Proficient in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

Travel: Some travel required; typically not to exceed 2 weeks per year.
What we offer:
  • A collaborative team inspired by the way engineering and innovation enhance customer outcomes, improve lives, and change the world for the better. We are driven by our core values of agility, expertise, and trust.
  • An opportunity to lead and build a business with the support of an industry-leading firm that has been in business for 75 years.
  • Investment in your skills and expertise through a combination of professional and technical training programs, including leadership training and tuition reimbursement.
  • Open and transparent communication with senior leadership as well as local office management.

We offer an excellent benefits package including:
  • A competitive salary
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • 401k Retirement Plan
  • Military Reserve pay offset
  • Paid maternity leave

Abilities:
  • Exposure to computer screens for an extended period of time.
  • Sitting for extended periods of time. Reach by extending hands or arms in any direction.
  • Have finger dexterity in order to manipulate objects with fingers rather than whole hands or arms, for example, using a keyboard.
  • Listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
  • Communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
  • Read and understand information and ideas presented in writing.
  • Apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
  • Identify and understand the speech of another person.

Pay Range
USD $104,240.00 - USD $156,360.00 /Yr.

What M.C. Dean employees say

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About M.C. Dean

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

M.C. Dean is Building Intelligence®. We design, build, operate, and maintain cyber-physical solutions for the nation's most recognizable mission-critical facilities, secure environments, complex infrastructure, and global enterprises. The company's capabilities include electrical, electronic security, telecommunications, life-safety, instrumentation and control, and command and control systems. M.C. Dean is headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, and employs more than 5,100 professionals who engineer and deploy automated, secure, and resilient power and technology systems; and deliver the management platforms essential for long-term system sustainability.

Industry

Engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Tysons, VA, US

Year founded

1949

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