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Film Music Composition Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TrueShort

AI Music Composer & Editor

Los Angeles, CA · On-site +1

This role sits at the intersection of music composition, music editing, and AI-native creative ... Links to any film, television, game, or interactive media projects you've scored or edited * A ...

Inc.

Senior Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$105K - $112K/yr

... film, music, architecture, or whatever you're obsessed with Strong motion design skills Strong graphic design skills, including typography, composition and hierarchy The ability to work across ...

Omnicom

Senior Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$105K - $112K/yr

... film, music, architecture, or whatever you're obsessed with Strong motion design skills Strong graphic design skills, including typography, composition and hierarchy The ability to work across ...

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Film Music Composition information

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$5

$81

$192

How much do film music composition jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for film music composition in the United States is $81.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $192.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is film music composition?

Film music composition is the process of creating original music specifically for movies, television, or other visual media. Composers work closely with directors and producers to enhance the emotional impact, mood, and storytelling of a film through music. This involves writing, arranging, and sometimes recording scores that synchronize with specific scenes or themes. Film music composers need a strong understanding of both music theory and the narrative needs of a film. Their work is an essential element in shaping the viewer's experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a film music composer?

To thrive as a Film Music Composer, you need a strong background in music theory, composition, and orchestration, often supported by a degree in music or film scoring. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs), notation software, and synchronization tools is essential for producing and aligning music to film. Creativity, collaboration, and strong communication skills help composers interpret a director’s vision and adapt to feedback. These skills ensure that the music enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of the film, contributing to the overall success of the project.

How does a film music composer typically collaborate with directors and editors during a project's production?

Film music composers work closely with directors and editors to ensure that the score enhances the storytelling and emotional impact of a film. This collaboration often involves spotting sessions, where the team discusses where music should appear and the desired mood for each scene. Composers may receive rough cuts of the film to synchronize music with visuals, and iteratively refine their compositions based on feedback. Effective communication and flexibility are key, as creative vision can evolve throughout the editing process, requiring composers to adapt quickly to changes.

What is the difference between Film Music Composition vs Sound Designer?

AspectFilm Music CompositionSound Designer
CredentialsMusic degree, composition experienceAudio engineering, sound design training
Work EnvironmentStudios, post-production houses, on-setPost-production, sound studios, on-set
Industry UsageFilm, TV, video gamesFilm, TV, video games
Primary FocusCreating musical scores and themesDesigning sound effects and audio landscapes

While both roles contribute to a film's audio experience, Film Music Composition focuses on creating musical scores, whereas Sound Designers craft the sound effects and audio environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the industry.

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Film Music Composition jobs near you
Infographic showing various Film Music Composition job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,964 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Visiting Assistant Professor - Composition

University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

128th of 622 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Teach courses based on applicant's expertise, composition applied lessons, and independent studies in composition at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Supervise graduate student research. Liaise with other units in the College of Fine Arts to foster inter‑departmental student collaborations. Develop and advance nationally impactful creative activity as a music composer. Participate in the academic community of the Theory/Composition Division and the broader Sarah and Ernest Butler School of Music through participation in meetings, committee service as assigned, and events.

Start date, August 2026. Salary commensurate with experience. This is a one‑year, fixed term appointment.

Qualifications

DMA or PhD required. Significant professional accomplishments in lieu of a terminal degree will be considered. A portfolio demonstrating a record of or potential for excellence in music composition for one or more of the following contexts: music for orchestra/band, chamber music, electronics, or collaboration across media such as theatre, dance, film, and visual arts. The successful candidate will demonstrate a record of openness to a variety of aesthetics, media, and styles.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

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