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Lead Acoustic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the Role We're looking for an experienced Acoustic Integration Engineer to own the speaker ... Lead acoustic FA on-site at contract manufacturers * Validate acoustic robustness across ...

About the Role We're looking for an experienced Acoustic Integration Engineer to own the speaker ... Lead acoustic FA on-site at contract manufacturers * Validate acoustic robustness across ...

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Lead Acoustic Engineer information

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$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead acoustic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead acoustic engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead acoustic engineer do?

A Lead Acoustic Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and managing the acoustic aspects of various projects, such as buildings, vehicles, or products. They lead teams in assessing sound quality, noise control, and vibration issues, ensuring environments meet specific acoustic standards. Their work involves using specialized software, conducting tests, and collaborating with architects, engineers, and clients to deliver optimal acoustic solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead acoustic engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Acoustic Engineer, you need a strong background in acoustics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant degree and experience in acoustic analysis. Familiarity with acoustic modeling software (such as EASE, CATT-Acoustic, or SoundPLAN), measurement tools, and possibly certification from organizations like the Institute of Acoustics is essential. Strong project management, communication, and leadership skills help you coordinate teams and interact effectively with clients. These competencies ensure the successful design and implementation of acoustic solutions that meet technical standards and client requirements.

How does a lead acoustic engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during large-scale projects?

As a Lead Acoustic Engineer, you will frequently work alongside architects, mechanical engineers, project managers, and construction teams to ensure that acoustic requirements are integrated into the overall design and construction process. Effective communication and the ability to translate complex acoustic concepts into practical solutions for non-specialists are essential. You'll often participate in cross-functional meetings, review project plans, and provide guidance to ensure that acoustic performance meets both regulatory standards and client expectations. This collaborative environment fosters both technical growth and broader project management skills.

What is the difference between Lead Acoustic Engineer vs Acoustic Engineer?

AspectLead Acoustic EngineerAcoustic Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Acoustics, Engineering, or related field; often requires experience in project managementBachelor's or Master's in Acoustics, Engineering, or related field; entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, coordinating teams, overseeing design and testingConducting measurements, simulations, and analysis under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in large projects, R&D, and consulting firmsCommon in manufacturing, product design, and research labs

The main difference is that a Lead Acoustic Engineer manages projects and teams, while an Acoustic Engineer focuses on technical analysis and testing. The lead role involves more responsibility in planning and coordination, whereas the acoustic role emphasizes technical expertise and execution.

What cities are hiring for Lead Acoustic Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Acoustic Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Lead Acoustic Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Acoustic Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Acoustic Engineer jobs?

For Lead Acoustic Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Acoustic Test Engineer 2/3-Sunnyvale, California

Boulder Creek, CA

NORTHROP GRUMMAN
Space Research Administration • 10K+ employees

$91K - $137K/yr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Life, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support and lead acoustic acceptance testing of hardware including vibration and sound measurements.

  • Troubleshoot testing issues using fundamental skills and advanced techniques such as acoustic cameras, sound intensity, impact testing, and modal analysis.

  • Develop test plans, analyze test results, and prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.


Northrop Grumman rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 372 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: No
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the Time
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Mission Systems is seeking an Acoustic Test Engineer level 2 or 3 to participate in testing US Navy Machinery (turbines, generators, and gears) based out of Sunnyvale, CA. Northrop Grumman manufactures, assembles, and tests the machinery onsite in our Sunnyvale facility.
This role supports testing conducted during a 24/7 operation for durations of 30 to 45 days. The role does require shift support with extended hours for stretches up to 7 days within that 30-to-45-day window. This would occur approximately 4 times per year. All hours over 80 hours per two-week period are compensated. Any night shift work also carries a premium pay bonus.
The fast paced and stimulating test environment offers the opportunity to grow technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and sound engineering judgement. We are looking for talented engineers to take on this challenge and grow with Northrop Grumman.
What You'll get to Do:
  • Work as a member of the test engineering team to lead and support acoustic acceptance testing of hardware including vibration (accelerometers) and sound (microphones).
  • Troubleshoot issues using basic fundamental skills along with advanced techniques including acoustic cameras, sound intensity, impact testing, and modal analysis.
  • Lead and support acoustic testing for the development and qualification of new systems and hardware.
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams to develop test plans and analyze results.
  • Prepare technical reports and presentations summarizing findings and recommendations for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Prior acoustic experience is not required for this role. Exposure to data acquisition is preferred.

Basic Qualifications for Acoustic Analyst level 2:
  • Bachelor's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 2 years relevant work experience; or Master's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with no relevant work experience.
  • Experience with MATLAB or equivalent tool to process and analyze large data sets.
  • Willingness to work in a hands-on environment with large hardware.
  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret Clearance.

Basic Qualifications for Acoustic Analyst level 3:
  • Bachelor's Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) discipline with 5 years relevant work experience; or master's degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with 3 years of relevant experience; or Ph.D in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) with no relevant work experience.
  • Experience with MATLAB or equivalent tool to process and analyze large data sets.
  • Willingness to work in a hands-on environment with large hardware.
  • Must be a US citizen.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with data acquisition systems including measuring vibration (accelerometers) or noise (microphones).
  • Experience collecting and analyzing large data sets.
  • Experience in conducting advanced measurement techniques such as modal analysis.

Primary Level Salary Range: $91,800.00 - $137,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $114,000.00 - $171,000.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939