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Entry Level Music Production Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Music Production information

See Kentucky salary details

$9

$16

$26

How much do entry level music production jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level music production in Kentucky is $16.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.37 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are entry-level jobs in music production?

Entry-level jobs in music production involve working as a sound engineer or audio technician in a recording studio or other music production setting. In an entry-level position, you generally work under the direction of a senior engineer or producer during recording sessions. Your duties include setting up the studio, operating recording and mixing equipment, and ensuring that the recording meets the quality standards and other parameters for each project. Your responsibilities usually involve using digital recording software to mix, edit, and remove unwanted sounds. Some employers refer to entry-level studio professionals as assistant technicians or engineers. You can also find internships in recording studios.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level music producer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Music Producer, you need a foundational understanding of music theory, audio recording, and basic mixing techniques, often supported by coursework or a relevant degree. Familiarity with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live, Logic Pro, or FL Studio, as well as knowledge of MIDI controllers and audio interfaces, is typically expected. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong collaboration skills help producers work effectively with artists and teams. These abilities are crucial for producing high-quality music tracks and building a professional reputation in the competitive music industry.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level music producers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level music producers often encounter challenges such as limited access to high-quality equipment, building a professional portfolio, and establishing industry connections. To overcome these obstacles, many start by utilizing affordable digital audio workstations (DAWs) and free plugins, collaborating with local artists, and participating in online music communities to gain feedback and exposure. Consistently working on diverse projects and seeking mentorship from experienced producers can also help accelerate skill development and open doors to future opportunities.

What is the difference between Entry Level Music Production vs Entry Level Audio Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Music ProductionEntry Level Audio Engineering
CredentialsBasic music production courses, DAW proficiencyAudio engineering certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, home studios, post-productionRecording studios, live sound venues, broadcast facilities
Industry UsageMusic production companies, independent artistsRecording studios, broadcasting, live events

Entry Level Music Production and Entry Level Audio Engineering share foundational skills like DAW use and basic technical knowledge. However, music production focuses more on creating and arranging music, while audio engineering emphasizes technical aspects of recording and sound quality. Both roles often overlap but cater to different career paths within the audio industry.

How to start a career in entry level music production?

To start a career in entry level music production, gain foundational skills through online courses or tutorials on digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live or FL Studio, and build a portfolio by creating and sharing your own tracks. Internships, volunteering at local studios, or assisting experienced producers can provide practical experience and industry connections.

What are the most commonly searched types of Music Production jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Music Production jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Music Production jobs in Kentucky?

For Entry Level Music Production jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Music Production jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Music Production jobs in Kentucky are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Music Production job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $34,075 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

WS - INTERNSHIP - Appalachian Center For The Arts Tech/Design Assistant - FWS

Pikeville, KY

University of Pikeville
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 51 - 200 employees

$8.75/hr

Internship

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Internship - Arts Center Tech/Design Assistant


Division: Internship


Department: Career, Vocation, and Leadership


Experience: Entry-level


Job Code: NA


Location: 218 2nd Street | Pikeville, KY


Supervisor/Reports To: Technical Director (The App)/Angela Lockhart (UPIKE)


Motivated and detailed-oriented intern to join the Appalachian Center for the Arts team. This internship will provide hands-on experience in Technical Theatre and Design, allowing intern to apply academic knowledge in a real-world setting. Intern will assist professionals with projects that help improve the efficiency of live performing arts shows during the summer camp season. Each year, The App holds 3 performance-based summer camps and one technical theatre-based summer camp, serving over 100 local children, ages 5-18. This year we are adding an adult summer camp for individuals 18+. Intern will assist the production team during the performance-based summer camps.


Organization Description: The Appalachian Center for the Arts serves as a vibrant regional arts hub in downtown Pikeville, dedicated to theater, music, and visual arts. It aims to celebrate the area's rich cultural history while fostering community enrichment through high-quality entertainment and artistic education. Interns will have the opportunity to gain:

  • Hands-on experience in a performing arts work environment.
  • Opportunity to build problem solving and design skills.
  • Opportunities to network with professionals in the performing arts.
  • Insight into how technical theatre operations work and contribute to overall success.


Internship Duties, Responsibilities, and Career Competencies:

  • Assist in building and designing sets and props for theatre productions. (C, TW, CSD, CT, T)
  • Help with back stage show run duties. (C, TW, P, SCD, L)
  • Assist in event set ups. (C, TW, CSD, L)
  • Help with sound and light designs. (C, TW, P, CSD, CT, T)
  • Perform any other duties as assigned by the Technical Director. (C, TW, P)

Competencies/Skills: Communication (C), Teamwork (TW), Professionalism (P), Career & Self Development (CSD), Critical Thinking (CT), Community Transformation (CTR), Leadership (L), Technology (T)


Qualifications:

  • A current UPIKE student with interest/major/minor in Theatre or relevant field.
  • No prior work experiences needed.
  • Experience with power tools, musical instrument and band setup, painting, arts, and theatre is helpful but not necessary.


Other Skills:

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Enjoyment in working with children.
  • Detail-oriented and organized.
  • Weekend work is required.


Work Schedule: The App's performance summer camps run on two week cycles. Camps meet for two weeks on weekdays from 8:30-3:30 and have three weekend performances at the end of each two week cycle. The App's adult summer camp will meet for a two week period in the evenings with three weekend performances at the end of the two week cycle. Intern must be available for scheduling during these times. Hours will not exceed 40 hours per week.


Physical Demands:

  • General Activity: Sit 1-2 hours/day, stand/walk 5 hours/day
  • Use of Hands/Feet: Primarily using hands for typing, operating equipment, or handling materials.
  • Weight Lifted: Up to 50 pounds (with the help of another person) occasionally.
  • Physical Demands: This is a physical job that requires you to be active.


Essential Skills and Professional Expectations:

  • Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
  • Comfortable working both independently and in a team environment.
  • Must be able to manage stress, stay focused, and maintain professionalism in various situations.


Number of Positions: 1


Pay Rate: Beginning at $8.75/hour


Location: 218 2nd Street | Pikeville, KY


Additional Comments: Student must work a minimum of 80 hours in the semester. Student must enroll concurrently into CVL 401: Integrated Internship Experience and successfully complete this course.


Application Notes: Resumes and applications will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.