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Freelance Audio Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

By pairing cutting-edge technical show design-including custom hardware, Audio Video (AV), lighting ... Manage the recruitment and procurement of event subcontractors and freelancers, utilizing and ...

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By pairing cutting-edge technical show design-including custom hardware, Audio Video (AV), lighting ... Manage the recruitment and procurement of event subcontractors and freelancers, utilizing and ...

New

Freelance Audio information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$31

$74

How much do freelance audio jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance audio in Iowa is $31.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.75 and $35.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance audio professional?

A freelance audio professional is an independent contractor who offers audio-related services such as recording, editing, mixing, sound design, or voiceover work to clients on a project basis. They typically work with musicians, filmmakers, podcasters, advertisers, or other media producers without being tied to a single employer. Freelance audio professionals may operate from their own studios or travel to client locations and often manage their own schedules, client communications, and business operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance audio professional?

To thrive as a Freelance Audio Engineer, you need a strong understanding of sound design, audio editing, and mixing/mastering, often supported by relevant coursework or a degree in audio engineering or music production. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and industry-standard plug-ins or hardware is typically required. Excellent communication, time management, and client collaboration skills help build lasting client relationships and manage multiple projects effectively. These skills ensure high-quality audio production, client satisfaction, and the ability to compete successfully in a dynamic freelance market.

How do freelance audio professionals typically manage client expectations and project deadlines?

Freelance Audio professionals often juggle multiple projects at once, so clear communication with clients about timelines, deliverables, and project scope is essential. Setting realistic deadlines and providing regular progress updates helps build trust and reduces the risk of misunderstandings. Additionally, many freelancers use project management tools and detailed contracts to keep projects on track, ensuring both parties are aligned on expectations from the start.

What is the difference between Freelance Audio vs Audio Engineer?

AspectFreelance AudioAudio Engineer
CredentialsVaries; often self-taught or with certificationsTypically formal education or certifications in audio engineering
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, remote or on-siteStudio, live events, broadcast facilities
Employer/Industry UsageClients, production companies, individualsRecording studios, media companies, broadcasters
Work ScopeMixing, editing, sound design for various mediaRecording, mixing, mastering, live sound management

Freelance Audio professionals typically work independently on diverse projects, often without formal employment, while Audio Engineers usually work within studios or organizations with specialized training. Both roles require technical skills, but the work environment and employment structure differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Audio jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Audio jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Freelance Audio jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Freelance Audio job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Audio job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,419 per year, or $31.9 per hour.

Events AV Operations Specialist

Guttenberg, IA • On-site

New Jersey Institute of Technology
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Title:
Events AV Operations Specialist
Department:
Media and Technology Support Services
Reports To:
Director, Media and Technology Support Services
Position Summary:
The Events AV Operations Specialist is a member of a team of dedicated AV professionals playing a crucial role in the successful delivery of high-quality AV services for events sponsored by NJIT students, faculty, staff, administration, and external clients. Events are held on and off-campus, 7 days per week.
The team is collectively responsible for the setup, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting of AV equipment, services, and systems used during and in support of these events. They ensure the seamless operation of audio, video, lighting, and other AV components, creating immersive and engaging experiences for both in-person and remote participants. Individually, each team member takes direct ownership of AV services for specific events as assigned by management.
This position works closely with event organizers to understand their unique AV requirements, provides technical support and guidance, and ensures all AV services are delivered on time, meet quality standards, and exceed client expectations. They actively monitor AV services during events, quickly resolving any technical issues that may arise to minimize disruptions.
Flexible hours are required, including occasional overtime during early mornings, nights, and weekends.
Essential Functions:
  • Event Coordination & Client Support: Serves as the primary point of contact and service owner for AV services (such as sound reinforcement, multimedia presentations, and video conferencing) related to individually assigned events. Collaborates directly with event organizers and clients to provide technical guidance, actively listens to feedback, and ensures that AV services meet expectations and contribute to a positive event experience.
  • Technical Setup & Live Operation: Ensures the timely setup, configuration, and operation of AV equipment, services, and systems (including audio, video, and lighting). Conducts thorough testing and quality checks prior to events, and actively monitors performance during live operations to promptly address and troubleshoot any technical malfunctions, minimizing disruptions.
  • Team Collaboration & Supervision: Collaborates effectively with team members, at times including professional AV freelancers, to coordinate AV services, share knowledge, and ensure seamless event execution. Provides mentorship and guidance to, and supervises daily task assignments for a workforce of student technology assistants (STAs) and part-time temporary workers.
  • Equipment Maintenance & Repairs: Performs ongoing maintenance and emergency repair of AV equipment and other specialized production equipment and systems essential to supporting events. Works with internal service providers and external vendors to facilitate major repairs to this equipment.
  • Inventory Management: Maintains inventory control of the specialized production equipment supporting events and conferencing.
  • System Documentation & Administration: Documents all work, activities, and incidents in the appropriate system, such as ServiceNow, to ensure accurate, complete, and up-to-date records of tasks, knowledge, resolutions, and project progress. This documentation serves as a valuable resource for knowledge sharing and historical reference.
  • Professional Development & Continuous Learning: Keeps up-to-date with emerging AV technologies, industry trends, and best practices through continuous learning and professional development. This knowledge is applied to inform service improvements, recommend innovative solutions, and stay at the forefront of AV service delivery.
  • Additional Duties: Performs other duties as assigned and as needed to support the overall objectives of the team, which may include providing assistance in different areas, collaborating on special projects, or contributing to cross-functional initiatives.
  • Flexible Hours: Flexible hours will be required in the support of special events and conferencing. This includes occasional overtime work, including early mornings, nights, and weekends.

Prerequisite Qualifications:
  • Associates degree in media, communications, technical, or other relevant field
  • Two years of relevant work experience in a conferencing, live production, or event management environment
  • Demonstrated experience with a variety of AV equipment, setups, and configurations commonly used in event environments such as
    • Audio reinforcement including digital and analog audio mixers, equalization and feedback elimination
    • Multimedia presentation systems
    • Video switchers and distribution systems
    • Video conferencing platforms and equipment such as codecs and cameras
    • Microsoft PowerPoint and related presentation software
  • A customer-focused mindset, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving
  • Ability to work under pressure, prioritize tasks, and adapt to changing event requirements
  • Ability to lift, transport, and assemble AV equipment weighing up to 50 lbs
  • Strong problem solving and conflict resolution skills including the ability to effectively communicate with team members and a wide range of clients including faculty, students, staff, high profile and non-technical clientele
  • Proven ability to work in a fast-paced team environment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in media, communications, technical, or other relevant field
  • AVIXA Certified Technology Specialist (CTS)
  • Proficiency with multiple video conferencing platforms and successfully integrating them into live events
  • Working experience in higher education

At the university's discretion, the education and experience prerequisites may be exempted where the candidate can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the university an equivalent combination of education and experience specifically preparing the candidate for success in the position.
Union:
Office & Professional Employee International Union (OPEIU)
Range:
OPEIU -23
Compensation:
$55,037.00 - $75,424.41
NJIT considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. This pay range represents base pay only and excludes any additional items such as incentives, bonuses, or other items.
FLSA:
Non-Exempt
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Rate:
Salary
Additional Information:
As an EEO employer NJIT is committed to building a diverse and inclusive teaching, research, and working environment and strongly encourages applications from individuals with disabilities, minorities, veterans, and women.
Employment at NJIT is subject to the provisions of New Jersey First Act which mandates new employees, who are not NJ residents, to establish primary residence in New Jersey within one year of their appointment to certain positions. The law does not apply to any individual employed at NJIT on a temporary or per semester basis as a visiting or adjunct professor, teacher, lecturer, researcher or administrator. For more information on the act please click here.
If special accommodations are needed in applying for a position, please visit the Department of Human Resources located in Fenster Hall, 5th Floor, University Heights, Newark, NJ 07102 or call (973) 596-3140. If you have questions, please email the Human Resources Department at hr@njit.edu.
Information regarding NJIT campus security, personal safety, and fire safety including topics such as, disciplinary procedures, crime prevention, NJIT Police law enforcement authority, crime reporting policies, and crime statistics for the most recent three year period is available on the NJIT Department of Public Safety here.
NJIT is an E-Verify employer and uses E-Verify to confirm work authorization of each new hire.