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Lead Sound Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Designer

Newport Beach, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Strong problem-solving skills and sound design judgment. Leadership Skills (Senior Designer) * Demonstrated ability to lead design teams and guide design decision-making. * Mentorship and coaching ...

Designer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Strong problem-solving skills and sound design judgment. Leadership Skills (Senior Designer) * Demonstrated ability to lead design teams and guide design decision-making. * Mentorship and coaching ...

Designer

Newport Beach, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Strong problem-solving skills and sound design judgment. Leadership Skills (Senior Designer) * Demonstrated ability to lead design teams and guide design decision-making. * Mentorship and coaching ...

Designer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Strong problem-solving skills and sound design judgment. Leadership Skills (Senior Designer) * Demonstrated ability to lead design teams and guide design decision-making. * Mentorship and coaching ...

Lead Product Designer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$185K - $215K/yr

We are backed by General Catalyst, Sound Ventures (Ashton Kutcher and Guy Oseary), QED Investors ... About the role: We're looking for a full-stack IC Lead Product Designer to join our Design team. A ...

Lead Installation Technician

Broomall, PA ยท On-site

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

... in designing, building and servicing cutting-edge AV solutions, Visual Sound stands out from the ... Description The Lead Installation Technician is mainly responsible for building racks and ...

Designers at Stellantis are encouraged to think bigger, push harder, continually invent, and ... Sound judgment, excellent communication skills and the ability to drive decisions through consensus ...

PC Board Designer VI

Framingham, MA ยท On-site

$58.61 - $80.60/hr

... to lead industries and transform lives through sound. Today, Bose Corporation is entering an ... As a Senior PCB Designer, you will own the complete printed circuit board design process for ...

... to lead industries and transform lives through sound. Today, Bose Corporation is entering an ... As a Senior PCB Designer, you will own the complete printed circuit board design process for ...

Coordinate work with the lead electrical engineer, project and engineering managers including ... Sound design and modeling skills for Industrial plant layout, electrical design and detailing.

Coordinate work with the lead electrical engineer, project and engineering managers including ... Sound design and modeling skills for Industrial plant layout, electrical design and detailing.

Coordinate work with the lead electrical engineer, project and engineering managers including ... Sound design and modeling skills for Industrial plant layout, electrical design and detailing.

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Lead Sound Designer information

See salary details

$42K

$91.2K

$157K

How much do lead sound designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead sound designer in the United States is $91,161.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a Lead Sound Designer typically collaborate with game developers and other creative teams during production?

A Lead Sound Designer works closely with game developers, animators, and narrative teams to ensure that audio enhances the overall player experience. They attend regular meetings to align on project vision, provide feedback on how sound can support gameplay mechanics, and coordinate with programmers to implement audio assets. Effective collaboration often involves managing a team of sound designers, setting audio standards, and troubleshooting technical challenges to maintain audio quality throughout the development process.

What is the difference between Lead Sound Designer vs Sound Designer?

AspectLead Sound DesignerSound Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in audio engineering, sound design, or related field; experience in sound productionSimilar educational background; entry-level or mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentLeads sound teams in game, film, or media projects; manages project sound directionExecutes sound design tasks under supervision; collaborates with the team
ResponsibilitiesOversees sound design process, coordinates team, ensures project consistencyCreates sound effects, edits audio, implements sound assets

The main difference is that the Lead Sound Designer manages the sound team and oversees the entire sound design process, while the Sound Designer focuses on creating and implementing sound assets. The Lead role involves leadership and project management, whereas the Sound Designer is more hands-on with sound creation.

What does a Lead Sound Designer do?

A Lead Sound Designer oversees the creation and implementation of audio elements in various media, such as video games, films, or television productions. They manage a team of sound designers, coordinate with directors and producers to understand the creative vision, and ensure high-quality sound effects, music, and dialogue are integrated seamlessly. The Lead Sound Designer is also responsible for setting audio standards, guiding the creative direction of sound, and troubleshooting technical issues related to audio production.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Sound Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Sound Designer, you need expertise in audio engineering, sound design principles, and a strong portfolio demonstrating creative and technical ability, often supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Mastery of digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro, familiarity with middleware like Wwise or FMOD, and knowledge of audio post-production tools are typically required. Leadership, collaboration, and effective communication are standout soft skills for directing teams and working with cross-functional partners. These skills ensure the creation of high-quality, immersive audio experiences that align with project goals and enhance the overall product.
More about Lead Sound Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Sound Designer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Sound Designer job openings:
What states have the most Lead Sound Designer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Sound Designer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Sound Designer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,161 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Designer

THE HILL PARTNERSHIP INC

Newport Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$93K - $148K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Job description


Designer, Project Designer & Senior Designer

For five decades, HPI Architecture has shaped environments that do more than function, they inspire, support, and enrich lives across generations. Our work bridges people and place, creating meaningful spaces rooted in purpose and designed with intention.

Our brand promise reflects who we are:

With intention, we approach each project with curiosity, creativity, collaboration, and technical finesse. Fully engaging in the process, we design places that reflect the vision and values of our clients and the people they serve.

At HPI, youโ€™ll grow through continuing education, mentorship, and professional development, with opportunities to expand your skills and elevate your craft. We also offer a flexible schedule and hybrid work options to support balance, collaboration, creativity, and wellโ€‘being.

HPIโ€™s work spans a range of market sectors, including Housing (Senior Living, Student Housing, Workforce Housing), Higher Education, and Kโ€“12. As we look ahead, weโ€™re seeking talented Designers at multiple experience levels who are passionate about design excellence, collaboration, and creating meaningful places. Final role levelโ€”Designer, Project Designer, or Senior Designerโ€”will be aligned with experience, skill set, and demonstrated leadership.

How You Will Make an Impact:

Design Responsibilities (All Levels)

  • Contribute to the design of architectural projects from early concept through approvals and documentation.
  • Develop site studies, planning concepts, spatial strategies, and architectural design ideas.
  • Produce high-quality design deliverables, including plans, sections, elevations, diagrams, renderings, and presentation materials.
  • Collaborate closely with project managers, technical staff, consultants, and internal design teams to ensure cohesive, coordinated solutions.
  • Participate in client presentations, design reviews, and project interviews.
  • Ensure design work aligns with project goals, schedules, and budgets.
  • Represent HPI in a professional manner in client, community, and industry settings.

Expanded Responsibilities by Experience Level

Designer

  • Support project design efforts under the guidance of Project Designers and Senior Designers.
  • Develop design options, graphics, and visualizations that clearly communicate ideas.
  • Grow technical and design skills through mentorship, feedback, and hands-on project experience.
  • Take ownership of assigned tasks while learning to manage priorities and deadlines.

Project Designer

  • Support and lead design efforts on portions of projects from concept through approvals.
  • Develop design narratives, spatial strategies, and presentation materials with increasing independence.
  • Coordinate design tasks with consultants and internal teams.
  • Contribute to mentoring junior designers and supporting a collaborative studio culture.
  • Balance creativity with functional, technical, and regulatory considerations.

Senior Designer

  • Lead overall design vision and strategy for projects, guiding teams from concept through key milestones.
  • Establish design intent, criteria, and design narratives aligned with client goals.
  • Present design concepts with clarity and confidence to clients and stakeholders.
  • Mentor and guide Designers and Project Designers to ensure high-quality, cohesive design outcomes.
  • Collaborate with firm leadership to align design excellence with project delivery, schedules, and budgets.
  • Support business development efforts, including pursuits, interviews, and thought leadership.

To Be Successful in This Role, You Must:

Core Skills (All Levels)
  • Strong design sensibility with the ability to translate ideas into clear architectural solutions.
  • Effective visual, verbal, and graphic communication skills.
  • Proficiency in design and visualization tools such as Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
  • Collaborative mindset and ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Curiosity, adaptability, and a desire to continuously learn and grow.

Advanced Skills (Project Designer & Senior Designer)

  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines with attention to detail.
  • Working knowledge of building systems, materials, codes, and construction processes.
  • Confidence engaging directly with clients and presenting design ideas.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and sound design judgment.

Leadership Skills (Senior Designer)

  • Demonstrated ability to lead design teams and guide design decision-making.
  • Mentorship and coaching skills that support team growth and design excellence.
  • Strategic thinking that balances creativity, technical rigor, and project constraints.
  • Professional integrity and alignment with HPIโ€™s values of intention and collaboration.

To Qualify, You Must Have:

  • Bachelorโ€™s or Masterโ€™s degree in Architecture from an accredited program, OR professional experience in an architecture firm under a licensed architect.
  • Professional experience in an architectural firm, with level aligned to role:
    • Designer: Typically 2โ€“5+ years
    • Project Designer: Typically 5โ€“9+ years
    • Senior Designer: Typically 10+ years
  • Demonstrated proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and rendering/visualization tools.
  • Experience with regulatory processes and client-facing presentations is a plus.
  • Architectural licensure preferred but not required, depending on level.
  • A portfolio demonstrating design thinking, technical understanding, and strong visual communication skills.

* CANDIDATES ARE REQUIRED TO SUBMIT A PORTFOLIO IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THE NEXT STAGE OF OUR INTERVIEW PROCESS*


Pay, Perks & Benefits

  • Flexible Schedule and Hybrid Work Opportunities
  • Vacation and Sick time
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance with additional Supplemental Insurance options
  • 401(k)
  • Ongoing professional development with access to continuing education and meaningful mentorship
  • Licensure Assistance

Salary Range: $93,343.00 - $148,251.00 Annually

Our Core Values

CLIENT CENTERED: Weโ€™re all inโ€”listening first, collaborating closely, anticipating needs, and actively engaging with our project partners and one another.

DESIGN EXCELLENCE: We dig deep to uncover the unique needs of our clientsโ€”shaping purposeful, inspiring, and enduring spaces for solutions rooted in people.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRITY: We own our role and take pride in our work, delivering an exceptional experience every step of the way that excites.

Ready to help shape the next 50 years of meaningful design? Weโ€™d love to meet you!

Recruiters, please do not contact this job poster.