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Live Sound Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Freeman Company

Project Designer Audio

Nevada, IA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

... live sound reinforcement with a minimum of 5 years focused on corporate events; or equivalent combination of education, certification, and experience. * Ability to engineer instructions in written ...

Musco Sports Lighting

Senior Audio Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

Ability to lead technical projects, make sound engineering recommendations, and influence decisions ... Ability to work safely in office, lab, manufacturing, construction, installation, and live-event ...

Musco Sports Lighting

Senior Audio Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA

$98K - $134K/yr

Ability to lead technical projects, make sound engineering recommendations, and influence decisions ... Ability to work safely in office, lab, manufacturing, construction, installation, and live-event ...

Musco Sports Lighting

Senior Audio Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$98K - $134K/yr

Ability to lead technical projects, make sound engineering recommendations, and influence decisions ... Ability to work safely in office, lab, manufacturing, construction, installation, and live-event ...

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Live Sound Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$4

$17

$26

How much do live sound engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for live sound engineer in Iowa is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.22 and $22.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a live sound engineer?

Live sound engineers are audio professionals responsible for managing and controlling sound during live events such as concerts, theater performances, and conferences. They set up, operate, and maintain the sound equipment to ensure clear and balanced audio for both the audience and performers. Their duties often include mixing audio in real time, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating closely with artists and event staff. Live sound engineers play a crucial role in creating a high-quality audio experience at live venues.

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

To thrive as a Live Sound Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, acoustics, and signal flow, often supported by a degree or certification in audio technology. Familiarity with mixing consoles, digital audio workstations (DAWs), microphones, and sound system setup is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication, and the capacity to work under pressure help you adapt to the fast-paced, dynamic environment of live events. These skills ensure high-quality sound delivery, smooth event execution, and effective collaboration with performers and technical crews.

What are the common challenges a live sound engineer faces during live events, and how can they be addressed?

Live Sound Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected technical issues, acoustical problems in varying venues, and last-minute changes to performer requirements. To handle these situations effectively, it's important to stay adaptable, conduct thorough sound checks, and maintain open communication with performers and event staff. Having backup equipment and a well-organized workflow can also help ensure smooth operations and quick troubleshooting during live events.

What is the difference between Live Sound Engineer vs Audio Technician?

AspectLive Sound EngineerAudio Technician
CredentialsAudio engineering certifications, technical trainingTechnical certifications, equipment operation training
Work EnvironmentConcerts, live events, festivalsRecording studios, broadcast stations, live events
Job FocusMixing sound during live performancesInstalling, maintaining, and troubleshooting audio equipment
Industry UsageMusic, entertainment, eventsBroadcast, production, live events

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, a Live Sound Engineer primarily focuses on mixing and balancing sound during live performances, ensuring optimal audio quality for audiences. An Audio Technician handles the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of audio systems, supporting the technical infrastructure behind live and recorded events.

Are live sound engineers in demand?

Live sound engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for audio support at concerts, events, and venues. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, technical skills, and familiarity with audio equipment and mixing consoles. The industry can be competitive, but skilled engineers with certifications and adaptability are sought after.

How much do live sound engineers make?

Live sound engineers typically earn between $30,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of events they work on. Entry-level positions may pay less, while experienced engineers working at large venues or festivals can earn higher wages and additional income through overtime or freelance gigs.

How to get a job as a live sound engineer?

To become a live sound engineer, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop skills in audio mixing and troubleshooting, and become proficient with industry-standard equipment and digital audio workstations. Obtaining relevant certifications and building a network within the live event industry can also improve job prospects.

What do live sound engineers do?

Live sound engineers are responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment during live events such as concerts, theater productions, and conferences. They adjust sound levels, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure clear audio quality for performers and audiences using mixing consoles and microphones. Strong technical skills and knowledge of audio equipment are essential for this role.

What job categories do people searching Live Sound Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Live Sound Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Live Sound Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Live Sound Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,615 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Sound Engineer | Part-Time | ISU - Stephens Auditorium

Oak View Group

Ames, IA • On-site

$38.91/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 24 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Execute the setup, operation, and teardown of audio systems.

  • Assist with inventory management and perform general sound system maintenance.

  • Troubleshoot unplanned challenges and work safely during events.

Oak View Group rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 85 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 37 rated event venues

Job description

Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents. 


The Sound Engineer will execute the setup, operation, and teardown of audio systems; assist with inventory; and provide general sound system maintenance, as necessary. The position will be part-time and hourly and should be available to work days and nights, including weekends and holidays. 

This role pays an hourly rate of $38.91

Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching.

This position will remain open until November 13, 2026.


  • Execute the setup, operation, and teardown of audio systems.
  • Work safely and efficiently during varying weather and times of day/night using a variety of equipment.
  • Promote a safe working environment for all employees by following the life safety and emergency program as needed.
  • Maintain an effective working relationship with clients, employees, exhibitors, patrons, and others encountered in the course of employment.
  • Ability to successfully troubleshoot unplanned challenges.
  • Remain flexible and adjust to situations as they occur.
  • Provides general sound system maintenance and assists with inventory.
  • Frequent bending, carrying, moving, climbing, working from various heights, lifting, sitting, exposure to moderate-to-loud noises, and extensive walking through the building.

  • High school diploma or G.E.D. or equivalent is required.
  • 2-3 years of previous experience with sound engineering.
  • Familiar with operational procedures, facility capabilities, industry terminology, and event-related services.
  • Basic math skills to provide accurate inventory tracking and event set-ups
  • Ability to operate equipment such as light trucks, pallet jacks, forklifts, or other equipment is preferred.
  • Able to follow detailed instructions and communicate effectively.
  • Ability to work independently, exercising judgment and initiative.
  • Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
  • Effectively work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to communicate with employees, co-workers, management staff, and guests in a clear, professional, and courteous manner that fosters a positive, enthusiastic, and cooperative work environment.
  • Maintain a professional demeanor among clients, talent, and guests, demonstrating a high level of customer and client service.
  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to consistently adhere to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, ethics, and confidentiality.

At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.


Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

What Oak View Group employees say

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About Oak View Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oak View Group (OVG) is a Development and Investment Company based in Los Angeles, CA, USA. Founded in 2015, the company plays a significant role in the sports and live entertainment industry. Specializing in arena & stadium alliances, OVG is committed to establishing partnerships that facilitate the growth of the live entertainment industry. The company operates multiple subdivisions involved in different aspects like facilities, security, content & media, and investments. Oak View Group's core mission is to be an industry leader that can be trusted by partners, residents, and fans to create world-class experiences.

Industry

Management of companies and enterprises

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

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