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Entry Level Sound Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

You'llexercise sound judgment in diagnosing issues, proposing solutions, and supporting litigation ... Provide technical guidance and day-to-day support for interns and entry-level engineers, helping ...

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Entry Level Sound Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$34K

$78.6K

$133.6K

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

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level sound engineer in Washington is $78,559.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,300.00 and $88,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to get started as an entry level sound engineer?

To start as an entry-level sound engineer, gain basic knowledge of audio equipment and sound principles through online courses or technical schools. Obtain hands-on experience by volunteering at local events or internships, and learn to operate digital audio workstations and mixing consoles. Building a portfolio and networking within the industry can also help secure entry-level positions.

What is an entry level sound engineer?

Entry level sound engineers are professionals who are just starting their careers in audio engineering. They typically assist senior engineers in setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment for live events, recordings, or broadcasts. Their duties often include microphone placement, cable management, monitoring sound levels, and troubleshooting technical issues. Entry level sound engineers usually work under supervision and gain hands-on experience while learning more advanced techniques on the job.

What types of projects and teams do entry level sound engineers typically work with in their first role?

Entry level sound engineers often work on a variety of projects, such as live events, studio recordings, podcasts, or post-production for media. They usually collaborate closely with senior engineers, producers, musicians, and sometimes clients, gaining hands-on experience while supporting setup, equipment checks, and troubleshooting. Team structures are generally collaborative and mentorship-focused, allowing new engineers to learn industry practices and technical skills on the job. This environment provides a strong foundation for career growth through exposure to different audio workflows and networking opportunities.

How to get into entry level sound engineering with no experience?

Entry level sound engineering positions often require basic knowledge of audio equipment, mixing, and recording software such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, volunteering at local events, or creating a demo reel can help build skills and demonstrate your interest to employers. Pursuing relevant certifications or courses can also improve your chances of entering the field without prior experience.

What is the difference between Entry Level Sound Engineer vs Assistant Sound Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Sound EngineerAssistant Sound Engineer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical training or certification preferredSimilar; often requires technical training or certification
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live venues, broadcast stationsRecording studios, live events, assisting senior engineers
Employer & Industry UsageMusic, film, TV, radio industriesMusic production, live sound, broadcasting
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Sound Engineer and an Assistant Sound Engineer lies in their responsibilities. Entry Level Sound Engineers typically handle basic recording and mixing tasks, while Assistant Sound Engineers support senior engineers with setup, equipment management, and technical assistance. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, often overlapping in industry usage. The choice depends on experience level and specific job duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level sound engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Sound Engineer, you need a basic understanding of audio principles, signal flow, and acoustics, typically supported by a relevant degree or diploma in audio engineering or a related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Logic Pro, as well as audio mixing consoles and microphones, is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication help set you apart in this collaborative and fast-paced environment. These skills ensure high-quality audio production, efficient problem-solving, and smooth coordination with artists and technical teams.

Is there a demand for entry level sound engineers?

Entry level sound engineers are in steady demand across live events, recording studios, and broadcasting environments, especially as technology advances and new venues open. Employers often seek candidates with basic knowledge of audio equipment, digital audio workstations, and certification in sound engineering. Job growth is expected to be steady, with opportunities increasing as the entertainment and media industries expand.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sound Engineer jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Sound Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Entry Level Sound Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Entry Level Sound Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Sound Engineer job openings in Washington 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 $78,559 per year, or $37.8 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer (Mechanical Design) - Entry to Mid Level (Maryland)

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Fort George G Meade, MD • On-site

$87K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 537 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

28th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

As an Operational Support professional, you will use skills to create the systems and tools that will be used to enhance the operation of intelligence. You will advise, administer and perform scientific projects, such as planning, designing, and constructing specialized equipment, and ensuring adherence to sound engineering and scientific standards and principles. In addition, we are seeking skills that include computer design, microelectronics, radio frequency design, and systems engineering.

Qualifications:ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience.
FULL PERFORMANCE With a degree in Mechanical Engineering, entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or Doctoral degree and no experience.
OR
With a degree in a related field (for example, Construction Engineering, General Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Electronics, Chemistry, Architecture, Mathematics, Hydrology, and Geology) entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 4 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 2 years of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree plus 1 year of relevant experience.
Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC) Systems (for example, heating, cooling, refrigeration, ductwork, piping systems, energy management controls, building management systems, mechanical codes, and indoor air quality standards), Project Management (for example, reading design drawings and facilities design), or Mechanical Design Engineering (for example, rapid prototyping process, thermal design and ventilation, tolerancing, properties/mechanics of materials, heat transfer, release agents, electronics, weight transfer, metallurgy), using 2D or 3D Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CAD) tools, or Industrial Control Systems (ICS).Education:The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
Degree must be in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (for example, Construction Engineering, General Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, Electronics, Chemistry, Architecture, Mathematics, Hydrology, and Geology).
If program is not ABET accredited, it must include specified coursework.*
*Specified coursework includes courses in differential and integral calculus and 5 of the following 18 areas: (a) statics or dynamics, (b) strength of materials/stress-strain relationships, (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics, (d) thermodynamics, (e) electromagnetic fields, (f) nature and properties of materials/relating particle and aggregate structure to properties, (g) solid state electronics, (h) microprocessor applications, (i), computer systems, (j) signal processing, (k) digital design, (l) systems and control theory, (m) circuits or generalized circuits, (n) communication systems, (o) power systems, (p) computer networks, (q) software development, (r) Any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, or soil mechanics.Employment Type: OTHER

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