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Audio Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Core Audio System Software Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Solid understanding of multi-threaded programming and operating systems concepts. Experience with digital audio systems. Proven debugging skills across complex software stacks. Pay & Benefits At ...

Corporate Live Sound Audio Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Manage audio hardware, software, and associated tools as onsite Audio Engineer, A1. * Ensure all ... Main show operator for live and Hybrid events. * Proactive in setting up and tearing down live ...

Showing results 21-40

Audio Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$33

$53

How much do audio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for audio operator in California is $33.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $53.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an audio operator do?

The responsibilities of an audio operator involve operating a soundboard for live or recorded television, radio, or other media programs. They set up and test microphones and interruptible foldback (IFB) as needed, as well as other equipment. An audio operator utilizes their knowledge of sound and audio mixing techniques, sometimes assisting in the production of commercial or promotional material. Other common duties include collaborating with another audio engineer to determine technical details. They may also handle administrative duties such as filing paperwork and ordering supplies. The qualifications you need to become an audio operator or engineer vary, but many employers prefer candidates with postsecondary education or experience in a similar position.

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

To thrive as an Audio Operator, you need a solid understanding of sound engineering principles, audio signal flow, and typically a relevant degree or equivalent experience in audio production. Familiarity with digital audio consoles, microphones, audio editing software, and industry-standard systems like Pro Tools or Dante is essential. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring high-quality, reliable audio in live or recorded environments, directly impacting the overall production value.

What are some common challenges audio operators face when working on live events, and how can they prepare for them?

Audio Operators working on live events often encounter challenges such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, feedback issues, and last-minute changes to event schedules or speaker lineups. To prepare, it’s essential to conduct thorough sound checks, keep backup equipment readily available, and maintain clear communication with the production team. Staying calm under pressure and being able to troubleshoot quickly are crucial skills, as live events often require immediate solutions to ensure audio quality is maintained throughout the show.

What is an audio operator?

Audio Operators, sometimes called sound technicians or audio engineers, are professionals responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment for events, broadcasts, recordings, or live performances. They ensure that microphones, speakers, and other sound equipment function properly and that sound quality is clear and balanced. Their duties can include mixing audio, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with other production staff to create the best possible audio experience. Audio Operators work in a variety of settings such as television studios, radio stations, theaters, and concert venues.

What are the most commonly searched types of Audio Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Audio Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Audio Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Audio Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Audio Operator jobs in CA?

For Audio Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Audio Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,069 per year, or $33.2 per hour.

Audio Engineer- Belasco

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago


Live Nation rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 52 rated entertainment


Job description

Job Summary:
WHO ARE WE?
Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment company, comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. Ticketmaster is the global leader in event ticketing with over 500 million tickets sold annually and more than 12,000 clients worldwide. Live Nation Concerts is the largest provider of live entertainment in the world promoting more than 40,000 shows and 100+ festivals annually for nearly 4,000 artists in over 40 countries. These businesses allow Live Nation Media & Sponsorship to create strategic music marketing programs that connect over 1,000 brands with the 98 million fans that attend Live Nation Entertainment events each year. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.
Live Nation's Concerts Division is where tours are born, artists come to life, and fans get to experience the rush of live music. From our dozens of owned/operated Amphitheaters to our Global Touring team, from Ticketing and Venue Operations to Marketing and Sales... we foster a fun and upbeat work culture with no shortage of opportunities. With perks ranging from free concert tickets to dog-friendly offices, to progressive benefits like student loan reimbursement and adoption/fertility support... it's no wonder we are certified as a Great Place to Work organization and one of People Magazine's "50 Companies that Care". We want everyone to feel like they belong and can thrive in our community, so we strive to help you achieve your career and personal goals. Live music is our passion and where we find our common ground. There has never been a better time to join Live Nation.
WHO ARE YOU?
Passionate and motivated. Driven, with an entrepreneurial spirit. Resourceful, innovative, forward thinking and committed. At Live Nation Entertainment, our people embrace these qualities, so if this sounds like you then please read on!
WHAT THIS ROLE WILL DO
  • Performs the Load-in & Out of band equipment and rental equipment
  • Set Up and Break down of Band and Event Equipment
  • Cabling and patching / working together with the entire crew as a team
  • Audio adjustments, maintaining safe audio levels. While providing a professional mix
  • Audio Control Boards operation
  • Oversee visiting audio techs, especially during shows
  • Responsible for Protecting /Maintenance and repair of Audio equipment
  • Assist with Production throughout the House as needed
  • Assist the Production Manager with the technical advance with Artists representatives
  • Ensure proper care and handling of all Company and rental audio equipment
  • Interact with visiting production crews to ensure a successful show
  • Distribute or create audio plans
  • Oversee and operate systems pertaining to audio throughout the entire venue
  • Ensure Special Events audio needs are scheduled and met and executed with the utmost profession attitude
  • Maintain a relationship with local & National Audio Vendors Maintenance and repair of sound, light and stage equipment
  • May assist the Stage Manager with show passes
  • Assist lighting crew with stands, microphones, cables, etc.
  • Assist with any Special Events operations

WHAT THIS PERSON WILL BRING
Required:
  • 3 years minimum Tour and Stage Production experience
  • Experience in stage lighting, pro audio systems and basic video systems
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously
  • Proficiency with all Microsoft applications
  • Must possess superior interpersonal communication and organizational skills
  • High School Diploma

Preferred:
  • College Degree

Physical Demands/Working Environment:
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 lbs
  • Work in an environment with moderate to loud noise level

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
We are passionate and committed to our people and go beyond the rhetoric of diversity and inclusion. You will be working in an inclusive environment and be encouraged to bring your whole self to work. We will do all that we can to help you successfully balance your work and homelife. As a growing business we will encourage you to develop your professional and personal aspirations, enjoy new experiences, and learn from the talented people you will be working with. It's talent that matters to us and we encourage applications from people irrespective of their gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability status or caring responsibilities.
Live Nation strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), family and medical care leave or the denial of family and medical care leave, mental or physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), marital status, domestic partner status, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, military and veteran status, political affiliation, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, and gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, rule, ordinance or regulation.
We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act and consistent with other similar and / or applicable laws in other areas.
We also afford equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability. For this reason, Live Nation will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant consistent with its legal obligations to do so, including reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy in accordance with applicable local, state and / or federal law. As part of its commitment to make reasonable accommodations, Live Nation also wishes to participate in a timely, good faith, interactive process with a disabled applicant to determine effective reasonable accommodations, if any, which can be made in response to a request for accommodations. Applicants are invited to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made to assist them to perform the essential functions of the position they seek. Any applicant who requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should contact a Human Resources Representative to request the opportunity to participate in a timely interactive process. Live Nation will also provide reasonable religious accommodations on a case by case basis.
HIRING PRACTICES
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Live Nation recruitment policies are designed to place the most highly qualified persons available in a timely and efficient manner. Live Nation may pursue all avenues available, including promotion from within, employee referrals, outside advertising, employment agencies, internet recruiting, job fairs, college recruiting and search firms.
**Please note that the compensation information provided is a good faith estimate for this position only and is provided pursuant to the Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and Equal Pay Transparency Rules. It is estimated based on what a successful Colorado applicant might be paid. It assumes that the successful candidate will be in Colorado or perform the position from Colorado. Similar positions located outside of
Colorado will not necessarily receive the same compensation. Live Nation takes into consideration a candidate's education, training, and experience, as well as the position's work location, expected quality and quantity of work, required travel (if any), external market and internal value, including seniority and merit systems, and internal pay alignment when determining the salary level for potential new employees. In compliance with the CO EPEWA, a potential new employee's salary history will not be used in compensation decisions.
The expected compensation for this position is:
$17.87 USD - $18.00 USD Hourly
** Pay is based on a number of factors including market location, qualifications, skills, and experience.

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