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Entry Level Audio Engineer Jobs in Wheaton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Audio Engineer information

See Wheaton, IL salary details

$39.1K

$83.5K

$137.7K

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

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level audio engineer in Wheaton, IL is $83,487.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,800.00 and $100,000.00 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.

Are entry level audio engineers in demand?

Entry level audio engineers are in moderate demand, especially in live sound, recording studios, and broadcasting environments. Opportunities often require basic knowledge of audio equipment, digital audio workstations, and certifications, with competition for positions being steady but improving as the industry grows with new media and entertainment projects.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Audio Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL? The most popular types of Audio Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL? For Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs in Wheaton, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Wheaton, IL are hiring for Entry Level Audio Engineer jobs? Cities near Wheaton, IL with the most Entry Level Audio Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Audio Engineer job openings in Wheaton, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,487 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Videographer & Content Creator (Part-Time)

Path Construction

Arlington Heights, IL

$40 - $70/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Path Construction is seeking a highly skilled Videographer and Content Creator to capture and produce professional video, photography, and cinematic drone footage across our active jobsites and offices nationwide. This role is central to how we tell the story of our people, our projects, and our culture across recruiting, marketing, business development, and social media.

This is not an entry-level content role. We are looking for someone with real production experience who can shoot broadcast-quality video, edit quickly and cleanly, and operate a drone with genuine cinematic skill, including advanced FPV-style flying (navigating tight spaces, moving through structures, dynamic tracking shots). Final products should look like a professional broadcast package, not standard drone content.

A demo reel is required to apply. Applications submitted without one will not be considered.

This is a part-time position, 2 to 3 days per week (approximately 15-30 hours), with schedule flexibility based on project needs. This role will be based primarily in the Chicago area (approximately 60% of work), with travel to Path Construction offices and jobsites outside of Illinois, including Phoenix, Knoxville, Charlotte, and Tampa, required approximately once or twice per month.

About Path Construction

Path Construction is a national general contractor headquartered in Arlington Heights, IL, with offices and projects throughout the United States. Since 2008, we've delivered high-quality construction services across a diverse range of commercial markets while building lasting relationships with our clients, partners, and communities.

At Path, we believe our people are our greatest asset. We are committed to hiring driven, entrepreneurial individuals who want to grow their careers while making a meaningful impact on the projects and communities we serve.

Responsibilities
  • Capture professional video, photography, and cinematic drone footage at active construction jobsites, including advanced FPV-style flying through structures and tight spaces.
  • Film and edit interview-style videos featuring employees, clients, subcontractors, and project teams, including full on-site audio setup (lav mics, boom, sound levels).
  • Develop interview questions and story angles in collaboration with leadership and project teams ahead of each shoot.
  • Produce project highlight videos and reels with a polished, broadcast-quality look and pace.
  • Create engaging content for recruiting, marketing, business development, social media, and the company website.
  • Collaborate with leadership and project teams to identify stories and content opportunities across the company.
  • Edit and deliver high-quality videos quickly while maintaining Path Construction's brand standards.
  • Organize and maintain a library of video, drone footage, photography, and other digital assets.
  • Operate drones safely and in compliance with FAA regulations and all jobsite safety requirements.

Requirements

    • Demo reel required. Must include examples of advanced cinematic drone piloting (including FPV-style flying through tight or complex spaces) and fast, polished video editing. Portfolio should reflect broadcast-level production quality. Applications without a demo reel link will not be reviewed.
    • Active FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.
    • Experience filming, editing, and producing professional video content from concept through final delivery, on a fast turnaround.
    • Proficiency with Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Creative Suite, or similar editing software.
    • Experience with on-site audio production for interviews (mic setup, sound levels, clean audio capture).
    • Strong eye for storytelling, composition, lighting, and visual branding.
    • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, comfortable directing and putting people at ease on camera.
    • Comfortable working independently while managing multiple projects and deadlines.
    • Comfortable working on active commercial construction jobsites and following all company and OSHA safety requirements.
    • Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, walk uneven terrain, climb stairs, and wear required PPE (hard hat, safety vest, safety glasses, steel-toed boots).
    • Experience in construction, architecture, engineering, industrial, or related industries is a plus.
Equipment
    • Path Construction provides standard camera and drone equipment, including DJI drones and professional DSLR photography equipment, along with industry-standard editing software. Candidates must supply their own FPV drone and piloting equipment (goggles, controller, etc.), as this specialized gear is typically personal to the pilot. Candidates who prefer to use their own standard camera or drone equipment in place of Path-provided equipment are also welcome.

Benefits

    • Hourly Compensation: $40.00-$70.00 per hour, based on experience and qualifications.
    • Company cellphone and computer.
    • Financial and Mental Health Support through a third party.
    • Travel and Entertainment Discount Program.

Path Construction is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees.