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Music Audio Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Founded in London in 2009, Sofar creates space where music and arts matter in 400 cities around the ... As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ...

Founded in London in 2009, Sofar creates space where music and arts matter in 400 cities around the ... As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ...

Founded in London in 2009, Sofar creates space where music and arts matter in 400 cities around the ... As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout ...

Live music is our passion and where we find our common ground. There has never been a better time ... Audio Control Boards operation * Oversee visiting audio techs, especially during shows

These businesses allow Live Nation Media & Sponsorship to create strategic music marketing programs ... Audio Control Boards operation * Oversee visiting audio techs, especially during shows.

... Music playback. The work you do here will be heard by hundreds of millions of people around the world. Description As a member of the Audio HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) team, you will be on the ...

... Music playback. The work you do here will be heard by hundreds of millions of people around the world. Description As a member of the Audio HAL (Hardware Abstraction Layer) team, you will be on the ...

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Music Audio Engineer information

See California salary details

$29.1K

$83.3K

$169.3K

How much do music audio engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for music audio engineer in California is $83,350.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Music Audio Engineer Do?

A music audio engineer, also known as a sound engineer, oversees the music and sound for a music recording, movie or television show, or a live performance. In this role, you set up music equipment before the performance begins, such as speakers, audio cables, microphones, and stereos. Once the equipment is ready, you check the sound quality, record test runs of the audio with each microphone and speaker, and adjust levels to obtain optimal sound quality. Music sound engineers can work for production companies, event venues, and technology companies, or they sometimes work exclusively for bands or other musical ensembles.

What do audio engineers do in music?

Music audio engineers are responsible for recording, mixing, and mastering audio tracks to ensure high sound quality. They operate equipment such as mixing consoles, digital audio workstations, and microphones, often collaborating with artists and producers to achieve the desired sound.

What are some common challenges Music Audio Engineers face when working on a project?

Music Audio Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing the creative vision of artists with technical constraints, managing tight deadlines during recording or mixing sessions, and resolving unexpected technical issues with equipment or software. Additionally, they must ensure clear communication with producers, musicians, and other team members to deliver the desired sound. Staying updated with evolving audio technology and industry standards is also essential for delivering high-quality results.

What does a Music Audio Engineer do?

A Music Audio Engineer is responsible for recording, mixing, and mastering music tracks to achieve the desired sound quality. They operate audio equipment, set up microphones, adjust sound levels, and work closely with artists and producers to bring creative visions to life. Their expertise ensures that music sounds clear and balanced across different listening environments. Additionally, they may edit and enhance audio using specialized software, making technical and artistic decisions throughout the production process.

Is there a high demand for audio engineers?

The demand for audio engineers is generally steady, especially in the music, film, television, and live event industries. Growth is driven by technological advancements and the need for skilled professionals proficient in digital audio workstations and mixing tools. Job opportunities can vary based on location and industry trends, but overall, audio engineering remains a viable career path with consistent demand.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior audio engineers in the music industry or those working in high-level production roles can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and work on major projects or with top artists. Achieving this level often requires advanced knowledge of audio technology, mixing, and mastering, as well as strong industry connections.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Music Audio Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Music Audio Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio recording, mixing, and mastering techniques, usually backed by a degree or certificate in audio engineering or related experience. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live, as well as familiarity with studio hardware and software plugins, is essential. Outstanding attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills set top engineers apart when collaborating with artists and producers. These capabilities ensure high-quality sound production and smooth workflow in a competitive music industry.

What is the difference between Music Audio Engineer vs Sound Designer?

AspectMusic Audio EngineerSound Designer
CredentialsAudio engineering certifications, music production experienceSound design courses, audio editing skills
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live venues, post-productionFilm, video games, multimedia projects
Industry UsageMusic production, broadcasting, live soundFilm, gaming, advertising

Music Audio Engineers focus on recording, mixing, and mastering music tracks, often working in studios or live settings. Sound Designers create audio elements for multimedia projects like films and games, emphasizing sound effects and atmospheres. While both roles require audio skills and technical knowledge, their applications and environments differ significantly.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

In the field of music audio engineering, earning $300,000 annually is uncommon and typically reserved for highly experienced professionals working in top-tier roles, such as senior audio engineers, studio owners, or those with extensive industry connections. High salaries may also be achieved by engineers involved in large-scale projects, film scoring, or working with major artists, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, and a strong reputation in the industry.
What are the most commonly searched types of Music Audio Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Music Audio Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Music Audio Engineer jobs in California? For Music Audio Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Music Audio Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Music Audio Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Music Audio Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Music Audio Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Music Audio Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,350 per year, or $40.1 per hour.

Audio Engineer

Sofar Sounds

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

About Us
Sofar Sounds is a global community that connects artists and audiences through unique and intimate experiences. Sofar shows transform everyday spaces - from living rooms and rooftops, to boutiques and museums - into captivating venues for intimate gigs, creating inclusive experiences that bring people closer together. Founded in London in 2009, Sofar creates space where music and arts matter in 400 cities around the world.
Our global team is distributed across the US and UK, and is backed by some of the best-known consumer industry investors (TCG, Battery Ventures, Union Square Ventures, Octopus and others).
As an Audio Engineer at Sofar, you'll bring the magic on the sound desk at local shows throughout NYC. Our shows are intimate and all about the music - which makes the sound that much more important. Working with our local crew teams, you'll ensure that our Sofar shows sound incredible and artists sets go off without a hitch. We work in some pretty cool and unexpected places, so you may need to get creative depending on the venue!
Please note: this is a month-to-month contract role. During that period of time, you are expected to work consistent shifts (2-4 per month depending on show volume) and bring your own gear to shows, including PA and mixer. The majority of our shows take place during the evenings on Thursday - Saturday.
What you'll do:
  • 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 artist setup, and keep future requirements up to date
  • Transport your own gear to and from the venue
  • Set up and load-in audio equipment at the beginning of the show
  • Break down and load out audio equipment at the end of the show
  • Maintain safe and appropriate audio levels for the venue and audience size
  • Consult on audio requirements for venues, partnerships and special shows

Who you are:
  • You have experience with DIY audio setups, ideally at 50+ cap shows
  • You have your own gear and can arrange transportation to and from shows
  • You have a passion for live sound & creative problem solving - especially in unique venues!
  • You're a strong communicator and comfortable working with creatives
  • You are able to troubleshoot effectively, especially in high-pressure situations
  • You must be able to move up to 75 lbs., with or without reasonable accommodation

$450 - $900 a month
If our mission and job opening resonate, you're encouraged to apply even if your experience doesn't precisely match the job description. We are committed to creating a culture of belonging and building a diverse team that reflects a variety of lived experiences, perspectives, and skills.
If our mission and job opening resonate, you're encouraged to apply even if your experience doesn't precisely match the job description. We are committed to creating a culture of belonging and building a diverse team that reflects a variety of lived experiences, perspectives, and skills.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.