ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Audio Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Panera

Restaurant Systems Manager

Sacramento, CA

... Audio Individual is responsible for maintaining Audio Equipment · Troubleshoot or replace ... Developers. · Contact Panera Help Desk or Vendor Software Support Help Desks when support is ...

Panera Bread

Restaurant Systems Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

Escalate needed issues to a third-party A/V vendor when necessary. Troubleshoot and maintain ... Communicate with operations Estimated Time of Repair (ETR) POS Hardware Has entry level hardware ...

Panera Bread

Restaurant Systems Manager

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... Audio Individual is responsible for maintaining Audio Equipment • Troubleshoot or replace ... Developers. • Contact Panera Help Desk or Vendor Software Support Help Desks when support is ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAudio Engineer JobsEntry Level Audio Engineer JobsEntry Level Audio Engineer Jobs in California

Entry Level Audio Engineer information

See California salary details

$40K

$85.2K

$140.6K

How much do entry level audio engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level audio engineer in California is $85,249.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,100.00 and $102,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Audio Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Audio Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio principles, signal flow, and basic recording techniques, typically backed by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Logic Pro, as well as audio interfaces and mixing consoles, is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure high-quality sound production, smooth workflow, and successful teamwork in studio or live environments.

What Does an Entry-Level Audio Engineer Do?

An entry-level audio engineer works in various sectors of the entertainment industry, from radio to TV to film. You can also find jobs in this field with music venues and recording studios. Your duties center around the operation of the sound equipment for broadcast, performance, or production. You assist other staff in ensuring the audio quality. Your additional responsibilities vary with your employer, but they may include producing a mix of recordings to create a particular sound. You may work with computer programs to edit raw data to create the finished product. In most positions, you record or mix the audio in a studio setting.

Who was Michael Jackson's sound engineer?

Michael Jackson's sound engineer was often credited as Bruce Swedien, who was renowned for his work on Jackson's albums and live performances. Swedien was known for his expertise in recording and mixing, using techniques like close miking and innovative effects to achieve Jackson's signature sound.

How to start a career in sound engineer?

To start a career as an entry-level audio engineer, gain foundational knowledge through courses in audio production, acoustics, or related fields. Develop practical skills by working on personal projects, volunteering at events, or assisting experienced engineers, and learn to operate industry-standard tools like mixing consoles and digital audio workstations. Building a portfolio and obtaining certifications can also improve job prospects in this field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Audio Engineer vs Audio Technician?

AspectEntry Level Audio EngineerAudio Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles prefer audio or music production certificationsHigh school diploma; technical certifications may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live venues, broadcast stationsConcerts, events, broadcast facilities, production setups
Job FocusRecording, mixing, editing, sound designEquipment setup, maintenance, troubleshooting, live sound reinforcement

Entry Level Audio Engineers typically focus on recording and mixing sound, requiring some technical training or certifications. Audio Technicians often handle equipment setup and maintenance, working closely with live sound and production teams. Both roles are essential in the audio industry but differ in daily tasks and skill emphasis.

Who is Coldplay's sound engineer?

Coldplay's sound engineer is responsible for managing live sound and audio quality during performances. The specific individual may vary over time and is typically part of the band's touring or production team, often requiring expertise in live sound mixing and familiarity with audio equipment and software. Such professionals work closely with the band and production crew to ensure optimal sound experience.

What does an entry level audio engineer do?

An entry level audio engineer assists in recording, editing, and mixing audio for music, film, or live events. Their responsibilities typically include setting up and maintaining audio equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and supporting senior engineers during sessions. They may also be involved in tasks such as managing cables, labeling tracks, and ensuring sound quality meets industry standards. This role is a great starting point for those looking to build a career in audio production, providing hands-on experience and opportunities to learn from experienced professionals.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level audio engineers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level audio engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to fast-paced studio environments, learning to use a variety of audio equipment and software, and meeting the expectations of senior engineers or clients. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the technical demands and the need for acute attention to detail. To overcome these challenges, new audio engineers should seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, practice regularly with different tools, and proactively ask for feedback. Building strong communication skills and being open to continuous learning can also help smooth the transition into the role.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

While most entry-level audio engineers earn significantly less, some senior or specialized audio engineers working in high-profile projects, large entertainment companies, or in roles such as sound design for major films or concerts can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. These positions often require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes ownership of proprietary technology or studios.
More about Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Audio Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Audio Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in California? For Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Audio Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Audio Engineer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,249 per year, or $41 per hour.
KSON Afternoon Drive On Air Personality/Imaging Director

KSON Afternoon Drive On Air Personality/Imaging Director

Audacy, Inc.

San Diego, CA • On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Audacy rating

4.9

Company rating: 4.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 65 rated media

Job description

Overview

Job Title: KSON Afternoon Drive On Air Personality/Imaging Director

Department: Programming

Reporting To: VP/Regional Programming

Employment Type: Full-Time

Location: San Diego, CA

Work Arrangement: On-Site

Pay Transparency: The anticipated starting salary range for individuals expressing interest in this position is $70,000-80,000/yr. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities and location of the applicant, as well as internal and external equity.Audacy offers employees who are eligible for benefits with a comprehensive benefits package which includes: a health care coordinator, medical, dental, vision, mental health, telemedicine, flexible spending accounts, health savings account, disability, life insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, paid time off (sick, flex-time away/vacation days, personal, parental, volunteer), 401(k) retirement plan, legal assistance, life assistance program, identity theft protection, discounted home and auto insurance, and pet insurance. Overview:

Audacy San Diego is looking for its next afternoon host on the legendary KSON! This is a once in a career opportunity!

You'll do a live afternoon show and be a part of the Country Imaging team producing award winning audio for the biggest Country Brands across America. 

The perfect talent is positive, proactive, inquisitive, and able to take direction well. 

You'll work with one of the MOST engaged sales teams in the industry for a brand that ACTIVATES. The on air staff works HARD, but have fun supporting and cheering for each other. No ego. No false pride. 

This is not a job, but a lifestyle. We'll take our time and deeply vet applicants.

Please include an attachment or link to a recent audio sample with your application. 

Responsibilities

What You'll Do:

  • Create original content and perform a LIVE, local and HEAVILY interactive, music intensive afternoon show. 
  • Proudly represent the brand onsite, online and social media. 
  • Work hand in hand with sales to generate endorsement revenue. 
  • Produce imaging locally for KSON, KFRG and other local cluster brands.
  • Be a positive and proactive part of the Audacy National Country Imaging Team; a band of imaging brothers and sisters across the country crafting the sound design for national initiatives. 
  • Protect the station's FCC license
  • Monitor the music and commercial logs for the airshift
  • Ensure that promotions and contests are executed properly
  • Operate the control board and perform production work
  • Make frequent personal appearances at station events and remote broadcasts
  • Other duties as required by management
Qualifications

Required & Preferred:

  • Must possess a childlike sense of wonder and always strive to be better today than yesterday. 
  • Must have EXCEPTIONAL imaging production skills. 
  • Be comfortable being the face of your brand,, building coalitions IN and OUTSIDE of the building.
  • Knowledge of the country format and audience preferred. If not, a HIGHLY motivated interest in learning the audience and lifestyle. 
  • This is not an entry level position. However market size, tenure and format experience is unimportant. Your talent, potential, positivity and ability to take direction is critical. 
  • A valid driver's license, satisfactory completion of a motor vehicle record check, and if the position requires use of applicant's own vehicle, proof of insurance is required.
  • NOT a remote position. Must be able to work daily from the KSON studios, 9665 Granite Ridge Drive, San Diego, CA. 
Important Notes:

Please be aware that Audacy will never ask you to send money at any point during the hiring process. Communication from legitimate Audacy representatives will only come from email addresses ending in @audacy.com. If you receive any suspicious requests or communications, please verify their authenticity before responding.

#LI-CM3

About Us

Audacy is a leading audio content and entertainment company. As champions of audio, we connect with people in the moments that matter - delivering trusted local news, passionate sports and your favorite music across 220+ radio stations, premium podcasts, live events and digital experiences that reach more than 200 million listeners every month.We create compelling content, foster deeply engaged audiences and deliver outcomes that matter for advertisers. Learn more at www.audacyinc.com and join the conversation on LinkedIn, X, Facebook and Instagram.

EEO

Audacy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Audacy affords equal employment opportunity to qualified individuals regardless of their race, color, religion or religious creed, sex/gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, age (over 40), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or other classification protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, and to comply with all applicable laws and regulations. Consistent with our commitment to equal employment opportunity, we provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities who need assistance in applying electronically for a position with Audacy, unless doing so would impose an undue hardship. To request a reasonable accommodation for this purpose, please call 1-610-660-5614. Please note that this phone number is to be used solely to request an accommodation with respect to the online application process. Calls for any other reason will not be returned. Reasonable accommodation requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply