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Church Sound Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Church Sound Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$6

$29

$63

How much do church sound engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for church sound engineer in Chicago, IL is $29.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.04 and $39.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a church sound engineer?

A Church Sound Engineer is responsible for managing and operating the audio systems during worship services, events, and productions. They ensure clear sound for the congregation, balance audio levels for music and speech, and troubleshoot any technical issues. Their role often includes setting up microphones, mixing live sound, and maintaining audio equipment. They may also train volunteers and assist with recording or broadcasting services.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a church sound engineer?

To thrive as a Church Sound Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, experience with live sound mixing, and familiarity with various microphones and sound equipment. Proficiency with digital and analog mixing consoles, audio editing software, and sound reinforcement systems is typically required, with certifications in audio technology considered a plus. Excellent communication, adaptability, and teamwork are crucial soft skills, as well as the ability to troubleshoot under pressure. These skills ensure high-quality, distraction-free audio during worship services and events, supporting both the technical and collaborative needs of a church environment.

What are some common challenges faced by church sound engineers and how can they be overcome?

Church Sound Engineers often face challenges such as managing live audio feedback, balancing sound levels for diverse musical ensembles, and adapting to different speaker or performer requirements. Additionally, working with volunteers of varying technical experience or dealing with older equipment can add complexity to the role. Successful engineers overcome these obstacles through proactive preparation, ongoing training, clear communication with musicians and leadership, and quick problem-solving during services. A flexible and collaborative attitude helps ensure smooth operations and high-quality audio for the congregation. Continuous learning and staying updated on new audio technologies can also greatly enhance performance in this role.

How much does a church sound engineer get paid?

The average salary for a church sound engineer ranges from $25,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the congregation. Many church sound engineers work part-time or on a volunteer basis, especially in smaller churches, while full-time positions often require knowledge of audio mixing, sound equipment, and live sound systems.

Is there a demand for church sound engineers?

Church sound engineers are in steady demand as many religious organizations require technical staff to operate audio systems for services and events. Skills in audio mixing, equipment setup, and familiarity with digital soundboards are valuable, and employment opportunities can vary based on the size and activity level of the congregation.

What does a church sound engineer do?

A church sound engineer is responsible for operating and maintaining audio equipment during services and events. They set up microphones, mixers, and speakers to ensure clear sound quality and may troubleshoot technical issues as they arise. Knowledge of audio technology and good listening skills are essential for this role.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Church Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Church Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Church Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Church Sound Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Church Sound Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Church Sound Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,115 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Senior Filmmaker

Willow Creek Community Church

South Barrington, IL • On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead the creation of high-quality video content for services, campaigns, and digital platforms from concept to final delivery.

  • Manage all aspects of video production including pre-production planning, filming, directing, and post-production editing and finishing.

  • Coordinate and lead crews on set, operate cameras and lighting, and handle editing, color grading, sound mixing, and motion graphics to produce engaging stories.

Job description

Description

The Senior Filmmaker helps bring stories to life through video, creating content that inspires people to take next steps in loving God, loving people, and changing the world.


Working closely with the Programming Director, Central Arts & Worship team, and other key partners, this role leads the creation of high-quality video content for services, campaigns, and digital platforms.


From concepting and directing to shooting and editing, the Senior Filmmaker owns the creative process from start to finish. This role leads crews on set and handles the heavy lifting in post-production-including editing, color grading, sound mixing, music selection, motion graphics direction, and final delivery-to create compelling, engaging stories that connect with people.


What You'll Do:

  • Creative ideation & leadership, pre-production, and video shoots (which includes researching video examples, creating mood boards/treatments/storyboards, shotlists, assembling and reserving filming equipment and locations, coordinating and scheduling with talent and crew, operating cameras, lighting scenes, capturing audio, and setting up and striking sets).
  • Video editing/post-production 
  • Creative meetings & skill development 
  • Managing all studio space & equipment 

Success is defined as...

Success in this role is defined by the creation of compelling, mission-driven films that help people engage more deeply with the message of Jesus, elevate the quality of Willow Creek's storytelling, and effectively support weekend services and ministry initiatives. A successful Senior Filmmaker consistently delivers high-quality content, collaborates well across teams, leads productions with excellence, and helps bring creative vision to life from concept through final delivery.

Requirements

  • Experience creating testimony/documentary videos, promotional content, interviews, and event recaps
  • Strong cinematic storytelling and directing skills across documentary and scripted productions
  • High proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Premiere Pro and After Effects; Proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator is a plus
  • Strong understanding of all stages of production, including pre-production, filming, editing, lighting, and audio
  • Experience with Sony cinema cameras (FX6, FX3) or similar cinema camera systems
  • Ability to lead creative projects from concept through final delivery while managing multiple deadlines
  • Strong collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Experience directing interviews and working with non-professional on-camera talent
  • Familiarity with AI-driven video production workflows and generative tools
  • Passion for creating stories that connect with both church audiences and people exploring faith

What We Offer

The salary range for this position is $75,000 - $85,000, depending on experience and education.

We also offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Retirement savings with company match
  • Maternity and paternity leave
  • Generous paid time off
  • Mental health counseling reimbursement
  • And more

Apply