1

Audio Software Engineer Contract Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer, Audio

Santa Monica, CA ยท On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

As a Software Engineer with audio focus, you will be responsible for audio system support, feature development, and project integration. Optimize workflow and deliver rich content across large-scale ...

Software Engineer II

San Mateo, CA ยท On-site

$163K - $245K/yr

Our Platform Audio team seeks an enthusiastic software engineer who can build and implement technology used for 3D audio and hardware DSP acceleration. Your contributions will directly affect both ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Audio Software Engineer Contract information

See salary details

$63.5K

$147.5K

$205.5K

How much do audio software engineer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for audio software engineer contract in the United States is $147,524.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,000.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Audio Software Engineer Contract position involve?

An Audio Software Engineer Contract position typically involves designing, developing, and maintaining software systems or applications that process or generate audio. Contractors in this role may work on audio plugins, digital audio workstations (DAWs), or embedded audio systems, and often collaborate with sound designers and hardware engineers. Responsibilities can include writing code in languages like C++ or Python, optimizing audio algorithms, and ensuring real-time audio performance. Contract positions are usually temporary and project-based, which means engineers may work for different clients or on multiple projects over time.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Audio Software Engineer (Contract), and why are they important?

To thrive as an Audio Software Engineer (Contract), you need strong programming expertise (C++, Python, or similar), a deep understanding of digital audio signal processing, and relevant academic qualifications in computer science or audio engineering. Experience with audio development frameworks (such as JUCE, VST, or CoreAudio) and familiarity with version control systems like Git are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving abilities, and effective remote communication skills help you stand out in contract roles. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality, innovative audio software solutions on time and collaborating efficiently with distributed teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Audio Software Engineers working on a contract basis, and how can they be addressed?

Audio Software Engineers on contract often face challenges such as quickly adapting to different codebases, understanding unique audio processing requirements, and collaborating with remote or cross-functional teams. To succeed, it's important to establish clear communication channels early, familiarize yourself with the team's tools and workflow, and proactively seek clarification on technical specifications or project goals. Leveraging version control best practices and documenting your work thoroughly can also help ensure smooth collaboration and project continuity.
More about Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs
What cities are hiring for Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs? Cities with the most Audio Software Engineer Contract job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Audio Software Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Audio Software Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs? States with the most job openings for Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Audio Software Engineer Contract jobs are:
Infographic showing various Audio Software Engineer Contract job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,524 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Software Engineer, Audio

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA โ€ข On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Software Engineer to join our dynamic team. As a Software Engineer with audio focus, you will be responsible for audio system support, feature development, and project integration. Optimize workflow and deliver rich content across large-scale dynamic environments. Develop robust, efficient tech that can support multiple projects.
Core Responsibilities
  • Design and develop innovative audio features tailored to the gameplay, stories, of our open world games.
  • Design and implement systems and tools for the audio team's needs (such as sound propagation, environmental audio, dialogue systems, music, physics systems etc.).
  • Maintain and optimize existing systems in Unreal Engine to ensure performance and functionality.
  • Support sound teams in audio implementation workflows.
  • Coordinate with teams across departments through structured collaboration and communication to promote seamless audio integration.
  • Work with the sound design team to meet project requirements within performance and memory budgets.

Core Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field or equivalent work experience.
  • 5+ years of experience in programming within the video game industry.
  • Strong proficiency in C++ and Unreal engine or other large-scale game engine architecture.
  • Experience implementing interactive 3D audio in dynamic game-world environments.
  • Experience with Audiokinetic Wwise or similar real-time audio framework.
  • Knowledge of game engines and the constraints of game consoles.
  • Ability to work independently and also within a multidisciplinary team where you can communicate ideas with the sound team and other engineers.
  • Knowledge of real-world acoustics and sound propagation principles.
  • Familiar with modern solutions to automated implementation pipelines.
  • Passion for games, enthusiasm, initiative, and a strong work ethic.

Plus if...
  • Previous work on AAA titles.

Description
  • Full-time job with benefits.
  • Role is on-site in Santa Monica.

Join our talented team and play a crucial role in bringing immersive worlds to life. Together, we will create extraordinary experiences that redefine the boundaries of entertainment. Apply now and contribute to our innovative projects as a Software Engineer with Absurd Ventures.
The base pay range for this position is $115,000 to $140,000 per year. Actual compensation is based on market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. We also offer a competitive package of benefits including paid time off, sick time, company holidays, parental leave, medical/dental/vision insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and 401(k) to regular full-time employees. Certain roles may also be eligible for bonus and equity.