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Entry Level Sound Design Jobs in Milwaukee, WI (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Sound Design information

See Milwaukee, WI salary details

$15

$22

$28

How much do entry level sound design jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level sound design in Milwaukee, WI is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $24.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sound designer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sound Designer, you need a foundational knowledge of audio engineering, sound editing, and basic music theory, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live, and sound libraries is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with teams and interpreting project requirements. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality audio production and successful integration of sound elements into various media formats.

What is entry level sound design?

Entry level sound design refers to the process of creating and editing audio elements for various media, such as films, video games, and commercials, performed by individuals who are just starting their careers in sound design. These professionals typically assist senior sound designers, handle basic tasks like cleaning up audio, adding simple sound effects, and learning industry-standard software. Entry level sound designers may also be involved in recording, mixing, and organizing sound libraries, while gaining experience and building their portfolios. This role is ideal for those passionate about audio and looking to break into the entertainment or media industries.

What types of projects and teams will I typically work with as an entry level sound designer?

As an entry-level sound designer, you'll often collaborate with audio engineers, game developers, video producers, or marketing teams, depending on the industry. Your projects might include creating sound effects for games, films, or advertisements, editing audio tracks, or participating in post-production tasks. Expect to work closely with more experienced sound designers and receive feedback to help you develop your technical and creative skills. Teamwork and communication are key, as you'll frequently adjust your work based on the project's creative direction and client needs.

How to start a career in entry level sound design?

To start a career in entry level sound design, gain foundational knowledge of audio editing software such as Pro Tools or Ableton Live, and develop skills in sound recording, editing, and mixing. Building a portfolio of projects, pursuing relevant certifications, and gaining experience through internships or freelance work can help entry-level sound designers enter the field.

Does entry level sound design pay well?

Entry level sound design positions typically offer starting salaries that are modest compared to experienced roles, often ranging from minimum wage to mid-range salaries depending on the industry and location. As skills such as proficiency with digital audio workstations and understanding of audio editing are developed, pay can increase with experience and portfolio quality.

Is sound design in demand?

Sound design is in demand across industries such as film, video games, advertising, and virtual reality, with growth driven by increasing multimedia content production. Entry-level sound designers with skills in digital audio workstations and sound editing software are sought after as companies seek high-quality audio experiences.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sound Design jobs in Milwaukee, WI? The most popular types of Sound Design jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Sound Design jobs in Milwaukee, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Sound Design jobs in Milwaukee, WI are:
What cities near Milwaukee, WI are hiring for Entry Level Sound Design jobs? Cities near Milwaukee, WI with the most Entry Level Sound Design job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sound Design job openings in Milwaukee, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,063 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Design Engineer - Base Powertrain

Harley-Davidson

Wauwatosa, WI • On-site

$74K - $112K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Auto req ID: 54142 
Title: Design Engineer - Base Powertrain 
Job Function: Engineering 
Location: PDC
Workplace Category:Onsite 
Company: Harley-Davidson Motor Company 
Full or Part-Time: Full Time 
Shift: SHIFT1 

At Harley-Davidson, we are building more than machines. It's our passion and commitment to continue the evolution of this storied brand, and heighten the desirability of the Harley-Davidson experience. To keep building our legend and leading our industry through innovation, evolution, and emotion we need the best and brightest talent. We stand for the timeless pursuit of adventure. Freedom for the soul. Are you ready to join us?

The Harley-Davidson Motor Company Product Development Center (PDC) located in Wauwatosa, WI is home to the mantra - You dream it. We build it. Join our team as a  Design Engineer - Base Powertrain.

Job Summary

This Design Engineer role will support the design, development, validation, and launch of base powertrain components and systems. This entry-level role works within an experienced engineering team to help translate requirements into robust designs, evaluate technical options, support analysis and testing, and communicate results clearly to cross-functional partners. The role is intended for an early-career engineer who is building foundational capability in product development, design tools, problem solving, and production release processes.

Job Responsibilities
  • Support design and delivery of powertrain components and systems from concept through production launch under the guidance of experienced engineers. Examples of supported components include crankshafts, casings, covers, cylinder heads, balancers, gears, and bearings.
  • Develop and maintain fundamental knowledge of engineering calculations, CAD tools, drawings, materials, manufacturing processes, and validation methods.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional partners to define requirements, evaluate design alternatives, and support decisions that balance performance, quality, cost, weight, and timing.
  • Assist with engineering analysis, tolerance reviews, component packaging, design reviews, and documentation needed to demonstrate design robustness.
  • Support creation and execution of Design Failure Modes and Effects Analyses (DFMEAs), Design Verification Plans and Reports (DVP&Rs), and related engineering deliverables.
  • Review test data, summarize findings, and help drive closure of issues identified through development, validation, supplier, or production activities.
  • Communicate project status, risks, open issues, and recommended next steps clearly to team members, cross-functional partners, and leadership.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of design processes, engineering tools, documentation practices, and team standards.
Education Requirements
Bachelor's Degree Required
Education Specifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Engineering or a related technical field required.
  • Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related technical degree preferred.
Experience Requirements
  • Typically requires a minimum of 3 years of related experience. 
  • Fundamental understanding of mechanical systems, powertrain operation, product design, engineering drawings, and basic analytical methods.
  • Basic familiarity with CAD tools and product data management systems; experience with Creo, Windchill, or similar tools preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn quickly, solve problems using data and sound engineering judgment, and follow structured development or test plans.
  • Strong communication, organization, and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a cross-functional engineering environment.
  • Interest in motorcycle, automotive, powersports, or mobility product development preferred.

The pay range shown represents the national average pay range for this role. Your pay may be more or less than the stated range and is dependent on your geographic location and level of experience.

We offer an inclusive compensation package for all full-time salaried employees including, but not limited to, annual bonus programs, health insurance benefits, a 401k program, onsite fitness centers and employee stores, employee discounts on products and accessories, and more. Learn more about Harley-Davidson here. 

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Direct Reports: No  
Travel Required: 0 - 10%  
Pay Range: $74,900 - 112,200
 
Visa Sponsorship: This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship or visa transfer  
Relocation: This position is eligible for domestic relocation assistance (within posted country)