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Live Sound Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

New

Audio Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$450 - $900/mo

Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and execute each show * Reference our concert portal to ensure you have the right gear for each unique ...

$41 - $50/hr

Supervise and configure systems for live streaming, multi-camera events, and sound reinforcement as needed. Equipment Ownership & Venue SupportMaintain full ownership and oversight of theatrical and ...

Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and execute each show * Reference our concert portal to ensure you have the right gear for each unique ...

Provide live sound reinforcement for Sofar shows * Work with the crew team & artists to prep and execute each show * Reference our concert portal to ensure you have the right gear for each unique ...

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 ...

New

AV IT Student Worker

Riverside, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Responsibilities also include assisting with live sound, lighting, video recording, projection, and livestreaming when needed. Training will be provided. Required: * This is an on-site position.

AV IT Student Worker

Riverside, CA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Responsibilities also include assisting with live sound, lighting, video recording, projection, and livestreaming when needed. Training will be provided. Required: * This is an on-site position.

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Showing results 1-20

Live Sound information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$47.7K

$124.8K

How much do live sound jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for live sound in California is $47,705.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26,200.00 and $60,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is live sound engineering?

Live sound engineering is the process of managing and adjusting audio during live events, such as concerts, theater performances, or conferences. Live sound engineers set up microphones, speakers, and mixing consoles to ensure that the sound is balanced and clear for both the audience and performers. They troubleshoot technical issues in real time and may also handle recording or broadcast mixes. This job requires a strong understanding of acoustics, audio equipment, and quick problem-solving skills.

What are some typical challenges a live sound engineer faces during live events, and how can they prepare for them?

Live Sound Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected technical issues, last-minute changes in performer requirements, and varying acoustics at different venues. To prepare, it's important to conduct thorough sound checks, have backup equipment ready, and communicate proactively with performers and event staff. Effective troubleshooting skills and staying calm under pressure are essential for delivering high-quality audio throughout the event.

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

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 diploma in audio technology or related experience. Familiarity with mixing consoles, digital audio workstations (DAWs), microphones, and audio processing equipment is vital, and certifications like AVIXA CTS can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, communication, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help you adapt to the fast-paced and unpredictable nature of live events. These skills ensure high-quality sound production, smooth event execution, and a positive experience for both performers and audiences.

What is the difference between Live Sound vs Audio Engineer?

AspectLive SoundAudio Engineer
CredentialsAudio production certifications, technical trainingAudio engineering degrees, certifications
Work EnvironmentConcerts, events, live venuesRecording studios, broadcast, post-production
Industry UsageMusic concerts, festivals, live eventsStudio recordings, film, TV, radio
Common Search/ComparisonLive SoundAudio Engineer

Live Sound professionals focus on setting up and operating sound equipment during live events, ensuring optimal audio quality for audiences. Audio Engineers often work in studios or post-production settings, handling recording, mixing, and editing audio. While both roles require technical skills and audio knowledge, Live Sound is specifically tailored to real-time sound reinforcement at events, whereas Audio Engineers may work on recorded projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right career path in the audio industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Live Sound jobs in California? The most popular types of Live Sound jobs in California are:
What job categories do people searching Live Sound jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Live Sound jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Live Sound jobs? Cities in California with the most Live Sound job openings:
Infographic showing various Live Sound job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 48% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,705 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Corporate Live Sound Audio Engineer

Vario Productions

El Cajon, CA • On-site

$65K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description:

COMPANY PROFILE

Vario Productions is an international live event production company, specializing in Corporate Events and Meetings, Galas, General Sessions, and Activations. We produce hundreds of events per year with our US and global clients. Our vast array of services includes everything from production management, lighting, A/V, large-scale event technology, and our own Event App and Virtual Meeting Platform.


CANDIDATE PROFILE

We are looking to hire a customer-facing and experienced Live Sound Audio Engineer to operate our event productions, determine potential problems and provide solutions to issues that arise, design, upgrade, and maintain systems, and brainstorm possible improvements that can be made to a system in the future.


This position will report to the Director of Operations and support event planning and execution internationally. This individual should thrive under pressure, enjoy travel, and have a passion for technical event production. The ideal candidate combines technical expertise with strong leadership and organizational skills to deliver seamless event experiences.


CORE WORK ACTIVITIES

  • Manage audio hardware, software, and associated tools as onsite Audio Engineer, A1.
  • Ensure all audio production elements are tested and “show ready” for all events you are assigned.
  • Working knowledge of Yamaha, Vue, Allen and Heath, Shure, ClearCom, QSC, Dante, QLab, Ease Focus, Windows and MacOS.
  • Continually ensuring all Live and Hybrid production workflow infrastructure is reliable.
  • Ability to travel as needed for events up to 4+ times per month.
  • Strong communication skills, excellent organization and time-management, thoroughness, and the ability to handle multiple priorities including multiple simultaneous projects of varying sizes and scope.
  • Flexible attitude with evening and weekend availability.
  • Assist PM/TD with Audio System Design for potential and confirmed events.
  • Provide Specs for System / Gear Lists if needed.
  • Development of new System Configuration or Connections Solutions.
  • Main show operator for live and Hybrid events.
  • Proactive in setting up and tearing down live events.
  • Self-Directed schedule/availability to effectively manage and execute event needs.
  • Continually monitor upcoming events requiring dedicated audio systems engineer oversight support staff. Report labor needs to Logistics no less than 4 weeks in advance.
  • Communicate and escalate issues to relevant project leads (Project Manager, Sales Manager).
  • Coordinate with sub rental vendors as well as National Resource and Logistics Managers to properly fulfill the event’s equipment & labor requirements.
  • Advise on setup configurations to optimize the best sound system for the event space within budget.
  • Build, coordinate, and manage positive relationships with senior-level clients, internal teams, venues, and vendors.

ADDITIONAL EXPECTATIONS

  • Organizationally skilled with high attention to detail.
  • Perform quarterly quality control audits on existing inventory to ensure that all equipment meets the high standards the company requires.
  • Notify management of damages and losses immediately.
  • Proficient using standard office software: Word, Email, Excel, G Suite, Zoom.
  • Able to take on other tasks as assigned.
  • Knowledgeable of day-to-day operations.
  • Maintain a neat workspace/desk.
  • Work diligently and maintain proper use of time.
  • Assist management with special projects as needed.
  • Must be flexible with work schedules to cover for unforeseen circumstances as needed.
  • Able to work with last-minute changes.
  • Able to work well under pressure.
  • Works well in a team environment.
  • Perform other duties as requested, directed, or assigned.
  • Ensuring safety of company assets and property.
  • Maintains a positive attitude.
  • Must be a team player.
  • Take Initiative to learn.
  • On time and punctual.
  • 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, and leading audio support technicians.
  • Ability to travel as needed for events, up to +75% during peak seasons.
  • Attention to detail when creating system designs, arrays, specifications, and overall planning tools for technical productions.
  • Strong communication skills, excellent organization and time-management, thoroughness, and the ability to simultaneously handle multiple priorities and projects of varying sizes and scope.
  • Intermediate computer skills a must (including G Suite, Microsoft Office, Windows/Mac, Zoom).
  • Proficient in Ease Focus, Dante, Shure Wireless Workbench, QLab, StageMix, and Vue Systems.
  • Flexible attitude with evening and weekend availability.
  • Excellent client service skills with the ability to adapt to program changes while keeping composure.
  • Strong experience with event pre-production and understanding of live and remote (virtual) speaker presentation support technologies and technical support equipment functions.
  • Excellent communication skills with all stakeholders, crew, and clients.
  • Working knowledge of 3-phase electrical systems and portable power.
  • Advanced knowledge of audio systems, gain staging, RF coordination, flown and ground-supported systems.

Preferred

  • Located in San Diego, Los Angeles, Dallas, Orlando, Northern California, Las Vegas, Phoenix, DC, NYC, Chicago, Boston.
  • 8+ years of AV Live Sound Audio Engineer, preferably corporate events in a client-facing role.
  • System design, amps, power, curves, RF, automation, comm systems.
  • Demonstrated skills in leading teams and ensuring event logistics timelines are kept.
  • Knowledge of the following platforms/apps: Flex Rental Solutions, Zoom, Vectorworks, Google application suite.
  • Experience with video, lighting, electrical and structural support preferred.
  • Event industry work experience, demonstrating progressive career growth and a pattern of exceptional performance.
  • Strong industry relations with vendors and event engineers.
  • Create 2D and 3D diagrams plots for audio systems flown and ground-supported.

Compensation

This is a full-time, salaried position at $65,000 - $72,000/year annualized (base), commensurate with experience + Bonus + company benefits package:

  • 401k with company match.
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance.
  • Short Term Disability.
  • Performance-based bonuses.
  • Flexible, remote office work environment.
  • Paid Vacation, Sick, and Holidays.
  • Paid Educational and Certificate Training.