2

Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

As an Engineer II, Audio Electronics Design , you will contribute to the design, development ... We offer competitive rewards packages to full-time and part-time Associates working 24 or more ...

As an Engineer II, Audio Electronics Design , you will contribute to the design, development ... We offer competitive rewards packages to full-time and part-time Associates working 24 or more ...

Development can consist of hardware drivers, embedded software applications, audio and control ... We offer competitive rewards packages to full-time and part-time Associates working 24 or more ...

Development can consist of hardware drivers, embedded software applications, audio and control ... We offer competitive rewards packages to full-time and part-time Associates working 24 or more ...

... full-time basis. Shure will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas. WHO WE ARE ... Founded in 1925, we are a leading global manufacturer of audio equipment known for quality ...

... full-time basis. Shure will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas. WHO WE ARE ... Founded in 1925, we are a leading global manufacturer of audio equipment known for quality ...

... full-time basis. Shure will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas. WHO WE ARE ... Founded in 1925, we are a leading global manufacturer of audio equipment known for quality ...

... full-time basis. Shure will not sponsor applicants for this position for work visas. WHO WE ARE ... Founded in 1925, we are a leading global manufacturer of audio equipment known for quality ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$30.4K

$87K

$176.7K

How much do full time audio mastering engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time audio mastering engineer in Chicago, IL is $87,001.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full time audio mastering engineer do?

A Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer is responsible for the final step in the audio production process, ensuring that recorded music or audio sounds polished and consistent across all playback systems. They use specialized equipment and software to adjust levels, enhance sound quality, and prepare tracks for distribution on various media formats. Mastering engineers work closely with artists, producers, and mixing engineers to achieve the desired sonic outcome and maintain industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time audio mastering engineer?

To thrive as a Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer, you need a strong understanding of audio theory, critical listening skills, and experience with music production, typically supported by formal training or a degree in audio engineering. Mastery of digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro, along with specialized mastering software and hardware, is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication with clients set outstanding engineers apart. These skills and qualities ensure the delivery of high-quality, commercially viable audio that meets both technical standards and artists’ creative visions.

What are some common challenges audio mastering engineers face when working with diverse music genres?

Audio Mastering Engineers often encounter the challenge of adapting their technical skills and artistic judgment to suit a wide variety of musical genres. Each genre, from classical to hip-hop or electronic, has its own sonic characteristics and industry standards, requiring engineers to be flexible and knowledgeable about different mastering techniques. Balancing the artist’s vision with commercial loudness and clarity expectations can be complex, especially when working with clients remotely or with limited time. Effective communication with producers and mix engineers is essential to ensure the final product meets both creative and technical quality benchmarks.

What is the difference between Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer vs Full Time Audio Mixing Engineer?

AspectFull Time Audio Mastering EngineerFull Time Audio Mixing Engineer
CredentialsAudio engineering certifications, mastering-specific trainingAudio engineering certifications, mixing-specific training
Work EnvironmentPost-production studios, mastering facilitiesRecording studios, post-production facilities
Industry UsageMusic, post-production, mastering housesMusic, film, TV, post-production

While both roles require audio engineering skills, a Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer focuses on finalizing tracks for distribution, ensuring consistency and quality across formats. A Full Time Audio Mixing Engineer, on the other hand, works on combining individual tracks into a cohesive stereo or surround sound mix during the production process.

Do full time audio mastering engineers get paid well?

Full-time audio mastering engineers can earn competitive salaries, often influenced by experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced engineers with specialized skills and high-profile clients can command higher pay, especially when working in professional studios or with major labels.

How much do full time audio mastering engineers make a year?

Full-time audio mastering engineers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, with experienced professionals or those working in high-demand markets earning higher salaries. Compensation depends on factors such as experience, location, studio size, and client base, and may include benefits and royalties in some cases.

What are the most commonly searched types of Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Full Time Audio Mastering Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,001 per year, or $41.8 per hour.

$33.33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Columbia College Chicago is an acclaimed undergraduate and graduate institution that provides a comprehensive education in the arts, communications, and public relations. We constantly aim to reach our full potential as an educational innovator, incubator of new creative practice and generator of real-world success for young creatives. We are in the heart of Chicago, across the street from historic Grant Park, and housed in some of the most iconic buildings in South Loop.

Columbia College Chicago is a private urban institution of approximately 4,000 undergraduate and graduate students, four-year College offering a distinctive curriculum that blends liberal arts, creative and media arts and business is currently searching for a(an) AUDIO ENGINEER (Part-Time).

Under the direction of the Music Department's Technical Director, the Audio Engineer position is responsible for providing the audio support for afternoon, evening, and weekend classes and events scheduled in Music Department facilities, including the Concert Hall, the Sherwood Recital, and classrooms.

This is a part-time position at 18-hour max (not to exceed 950 hours per calendar year), three days per week position with a schedule of M-W F, 4-10 pm or TTh 3:30-10 pm and Sat 10-5 pm.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILTIES

  • Responsible for all aspects of live performances, including setup and teardown, monitors, front of house, projections, live operation, lighting, and involving audio systems, amplifiers, keyboards, microphones, mixers, video cameras, and switchers.

  • Responsible for all aspects of performance recordings, including setup, teardown, Logic multi-track backup, recorded video & audio, editing, mastering, and publishing concerts to Music Department YouTube channel and to shared student folders.

  • Responsible for all aspects of tracking and recording video and audio of non-performance tracking sessions. This includes setup, teardown, tracking, and backing up all video and audio recorded in the sessions.

  • Responsible for resetting Ensemble rooms after 9:00 pm to be ready for morning classes.

  • Oversee Music Center video monitor broadcasts of Logo, notices, future events and removing dated material.

  • Schedule and oversee volunteer concert hall tech crews, as needed.

  • Approve space requests for ensemble rooms.

  • Oversee work study students.

  • Inventories and tagging of new equipment.

  • Prep backstage gear for bands performing on outside events.

  • Maintain daily concert hall reports related to concert setup, operation, volume levels, striking, volunteer involvement, skill levels, areas of improvement and equipment location and condition.

  • Maintain an organized and clean workspace at all times.

  • May provide audio support for college-wide events like Convocation, Manifest, Columbia Weekend, etc., including setup and teardown, monitors, front of house, projections, live operation, lighting, and involving audio systems, amplifiers, keyboards, microphones, mixers, video cameras, and switchers.

  • Oversee the recording archive process which includes saving video/audio performances to external hard drives, labeling drives and creating and maintaining a FileMaker Pro database for easy access.

  • Assist with classroom and Concert Hall's equipment and technical needs.

  • Perform other related duties and/or responsibilities as assigned or required.

  • Bachelor's degree, plus two years' experience of running equipment and live sound, or equivalent combination of education, certification, experience, and/or training.

  • Ability to work a varied schedule when needed.

  • Effective analytical and problem-solving skills.

  • Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and customer service skills.

  • Ability to work with diverse individuals in a positive and constructive manner while appreciating the unique contributions of individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, and social identities.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee and is subject to change based on the needs of the department and/or college.

Position Maximum Hourly Rate: $23.16

Position Maximum Hourly Rate: $33.33

The salary range provided in this posting reflects what we reasonably expect to pay for this position. Actual compensation offered or earned is dependent on experience, education and other factors including department budget.

At Columbia, we offer a rewarding work environment for our faculty and staff. We take pride in offering competitive benefits with affordable health, dental and vision coverage; flexible spending accounts; commuter benefit program, life, and accidental, death & dismemberment coverage; paid and unpaid leave options; work/life benefits; educational assistance programs; and retirement and financial planning benefits. Click here for more information.

We invite you to join our talented faculty and staff and become part of our collective aspiration to ensure Columbia prepares students for success in their creative fields through innovation, engagement, and real-world experiences.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Position subject to a background screening

  • This is a union position

  • This is a part-time position

  • This position is overtime ineligible

Qualified candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

Columbia College Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and complies with all local, state, and federal laws and regulations concerning civil rights. The college does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law.