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Live Sound Engineering Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Corporate Live Sound Audio Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must be able to lift 70lbs Requirements: * 5+ years of AV Live Sound Audio Engineering, preferably corporate events in a client-facing role * Thorough understanding of audio systems, support tools ...

Audio Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Technical expertise in sound engineering techniques in studio and live sound environments * Expertise in ProTools and a working knowledge of other audio software and hardware like iZotope RX suite ...

$41 - $50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

... live sound engineering, theatrical lighting, technical direction, and/or venue management.Prior experience in K-12, higher education, or similar educational environments preferred.Demonstrated ...

Audio Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Technical expertise in sound engineering techniques in studio and live sound environments * Expertise in ProTools and a working knowledge of other audio software and hardware like iZotope RX suite ...

As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ... Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and ...

As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ... Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and ...

As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ... Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Live Sound Engineering information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$144.9K

$171.7K

How much do live sound engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for live sound engineering in California is $144,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,000.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is live sound engineering?

Live sound engineering is the process of managing and operating audio equipment during live events such as concerts, theater productions, and conferences. Live sound engineers are responsible for setting up microphones, speakers, and mixing consoles to ensure high-quality sound for the audience and performers. Their duties also include balancing audio levels, controlling feedback, and troubleshooting technical issues in real-time. This role requires both technical skills and a keen ear for sound to adapt to varying venues and performance styles.

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 principles, acoustics, and signal flow, often supported by formal training or a degree in audio engineering. Proficiency with mixing consoles, digital audio workstations (DAWs), microphones, and PA systems is essential, and certifications from organizations like AVIXA or Dante can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you adapt quickly to on-site challenges and collaborate with performers and crew. These competencies ensure high-quality sound experiences and smooth event operations in dynamic live environments.

What are some common challenges faced by live sound engineers during events, and how can they be addressed?

Live sound engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected technical issues, acoustical problems in various venues, and managing last-minute changes from performers or organizers. To address these, it's important to arrive early for thorough sound checks, maintain clear communication with performers and event staff, and stay adaptable under pressure. Being proactive with equipment maintenance and having backup solutions ready can also help ensure the show runs smoothly and professionally.

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

AspectLive Sound EngineeringAudio Technician
CredentialsAudio engineering certifications, technical trainingTechnical certifications, equipment training
Work EnvironmentConcerts, events, live venuesRecording studios, broadcast, live events
Industry UsageMusic concerts, festivals, theaterBroadcast, recording, live events

Live Sound Engineering focuses on managing sound during live performances, ensuring audio quality for audiences. Audio Technicians support audio systems across various settings, including recording and broadcast. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, Live Sound Engineers specialize in real-time sound management at events, whereas Audio Technicians may work in studio or broadcast environments. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the audio industry.

Are live sound engineers in demand?

Live sound engineers are in demand due to the ongoing need for audio support at concerts, events, and productions. Employment opportunities often depend on experience, technical skills, and familiarity with sound 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 earn?

Live sound engineers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the scale of events they work on. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers working at large events or for major clients can earn higher salaries or hourly rates. Many also supplement income through freelance work and overtime during events.

How much do live sound engineers make?

Live sound engineers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of events they work on. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers working at large concerts or festivals can earn higher wages and additional performance-based pay.

What are popular job titles related to Live Sound Engineering jobs in California?

For Live Sound Engineering jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Live Sound Engineering jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Live Sound Engineering jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Live Sound Engineering jobs?

Cities in California with the most Live Sound Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Live Sound Engineering job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,945 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Live Sound Engineer - The Wiltern

Live Nation Entertainment, Inc.

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago


Live Nation rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 142 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 52 rated entertainment


Job description

Job Summary:
WHO ARE WE?
Live Nation Entertainment is the world's leading live entertainment company, comprised of global market leaders: Ticketmaster, Live Nation Concerts, and Live Nation Media & Sponsorship. Ticketmaster is the global leader in event ticketing with over 620 million tickets sold annually and approximately 10,000 clients worldwide. Live Nation Concerts is the largest provider of live entertainment in the world promoting more than 50,000 events annually for nearly 7,000 artists in 40+ countries. These businesses allow Live Nation Media & Sponsorship to create strategic music marketing programs that connect more than 1,200 sponsors with the 145 million fans that attend Live Nation Entertainment events each year. For additional information, visit www.livenationentertainment.com.
WHO ARE YOU?
Passionate and motivated. Driven, with an entrepreneurial spirit. Resourceful, innovative, forward thinking and committed. At Live Nation Entertainment, our people embrace these qualities, so if this sounds like you then please read on!
THE JOB
The Wiltern is seeking is seeking a Sound Engineer who will be responsible for ensuring the success of show and event productions by performing the technical aspects related to the show(s) production. Assist in all aspects of stage operations, assist in all on-site A/V operations. While providing excellent professional service.
WHAT THIS ROLE WILL DO
  • Performs the Load-in & Out of band equipment and rental equipment
  • Set Up and Break down of Band and Event Equipment
  • Cabling and patching / working together with the entire crew as a team
  • Audio adjustments, maintaining safe audio levels. While providing a professional mix
  • Audio Control Boards operation
  • Oversee visiting audio techs, especially during shows.
  • Responsible for Protecting /Maintenance and repair of Audio equipment
  • Assist with Production throughout the House as needed
  • Assist The Production Manager with the technical advance with Artists representatives
  • Ensure proper care and handling of all House of Blues and rental audio equipment
  • Interact with visiting production crews to ensure a successful show
  • Distribute or create audio plans
  • Oversee and operate systems pertaining to audio throughout the entire Venue
  • Ensure Special Events audio needs are scheduled and met and executed with the utmost profession attitude
  • Maintain a relationship with local & National Audio Vendors Maintenance and repair of sound, light and stage equipment
  • May assist the Stage Manager with show passes
  • Assist lighting crew with stands, microphones, cables, etc.
  • Assist with any Special Events operations

WHAT THIS PERSON WILL BRING
  • 3 years minimum Tour and Stage Production experience.
  • Experience in pro audio systems, stage lighting and basic video systems.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Proficiency with all Microsoft applications
  • Must possess superior interpersonal communication and organizational skills.
  • High School Diploma
  • Must be able to lift up to 75lbs
  • Work in an environment with moderate to loud noise level

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
We aspire to build teams that reflect and support the fans and artists we serve. Every day we aim to promote environments where everyone can be themselves, contribute fully, and thrive within our company and at our events. As a growing business we will encourage you to develop your professional and personal aspirations, enjoy new experiences, and learn from the talented people you will be working with.
Live Nation strongly supports equal employment opportunity for all applicants regardless of age (40 and over), ancestry, color, religious creed (including religious dress and grooming practices), family and medical care leave or the denial of family and medical care leave, mental or physical disability (including HIV and AIDS), marital status, domestic partner status, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), genetic information, military and veteran status, political affiliation, national origin (including language use restrictions), citizenship, race, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding), gender, gender identity, and gender expression, sexual orientation, intersectionality, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law, rule, ordinance or regulation.
We will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinance, San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance and the California Fair Chance Act and consistent with other similar and / or applicable laws in other areas.
We also afford equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability. For this reason, Live Nation will make reasonable accommodations for the known physical or mental limitations of an otherwise qualified individual with a disability who is an applicant consistent with its legal obligations to do so, including reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy in accordance with applicable local, state and / or federal law. As part of its commitment to make reasonable accommodations, Live Nation also wishes to participate in a timely, good faith, interactive process with a disabled applicant to determine effective reasonable accommodations, if any, which can be made in response to a request for accommodations. Applicants are invited to identify reasonable accommodations that can be made to assist them to perform the essential functions of the position they seek. Any applicant who requires an accommodation in order to perform the essential functions of the job should contact a Human Resources Representative to request the opportunity to participate in a timely interactive process. Live Nation will also provide reasonable religious accommodations on a case-by-case basis.
HIRING PRACTICES
The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Live Nation recruitment policies are designed to place the most highly qualified persons available in a timely and efficient manner. Live Nation may pursue all avenues available, including promotion from within, employee referrals, outside advertising, employment agencies, internet recruiting, job fairs, college recruiting and search firms.
The expected compensation for this position is:
$25.60 USD - $32.00 USD Hourly
** Pay is based on a number of factors including market location, qualifications, skills, and experience.
Live Nation Entertainment will never request payment or equipment purchases as part of the hiring process. Recruiters will only contact candidates from official Live Nation or affiliated brand email domains.

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