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Music Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Senior Software Engineer-Apple Music

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$144K - $190K/yr

Every scroll, every tap, every moment of discovery of the Apple Music catalog is powered by the MusicUI framework - and the team behind it is looking for their next great engineer. We build the cross ...

Create Music Group

Staff AI Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$190 - $210/hr

Create Music Group is based in Hollywood, CA and has 400 employees worldwide. Job Summary This Staff AI Engineer role sits at the intersection of AI systems architecture and full-stack product ...

Create Music Group

Staff AI Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Create Music Group is based in Hollywood, CA and has 400 employees worldwide. Job Summary This Staff AI Engineer role sits at the intersection of AI systems architecture and full-stack product ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsMusic Engineer JobsMusic Engineer Jobs in California

Music Engineer information

See California salary details

$38.5K

$100.4K

$135.7K

How much do music engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for music engineer in California is $100,420.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,900.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Music Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio recording, mixing, acoustics, and music theory, often supported by a degree or certification in audio engineering or a related field. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and knowledge of microphones, signal processing, and studio equipment is essential. Strong attention to detail, creativity, and effective communication with artists and producers are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure high-quality sound production and smooth collaboration, which are vital for achieving the desired artistic vision in music projects.

What does a music engineer do?

A Music Engineer, also known as an audio engineer or sound engineer, is responsible for recording, mixing, and mastering music tracks in a studio or live setting. They operate technical equipment to capture and manipulate sound, ensuring that the final product meets artistic and technical standards. Music Engineers collaborate closely with artists, producers, and other studio professionals to create the desired sound for songs, albums, or live performances. Their expertise in audio technology and acoustics is crucial for producing high-quality recordings.

What are some common challenges music engineers face when working with artists in the studio?

Music Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing the creative vision of artists with technical limitations, managing time efficiently during recording sessions, and ensuring optimal sound quality in varying acoustic environments. Effective communication is essential, as engineers need to interpret and translate the artist’s ideas into technical terms. Additionally, adapting quickly to different music genres and artist preferences can be demanding but also fosters professional growth and versatility.

What is the difference between Music Engineer vs Sound Technician?

AspectMusic EngineerSound Technician
CredentialsMusic production or audio engineering degree, certificationsAudio engineering or technical certifications, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, music production settingsLive events, concerts, broadcast environments
Industry UsageMusic recording, production, and mixingSound reinforcement, live sound, equipment setup

Music Engineers focus on recording, mixing, and producing music in studio settings, often requiring specialized audio credentials. Sound Technicians primarily handle live sound, equipment setup, and maintenance during events. While both roles involve audio expertise, Music Engineers are more involved in the creative and production process, whereas Sound Technicians support live sound environments.

Do music engineers get paid well?

Music engineers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the type of projects they work on. Entry-level engineers typically earn lower wages, while experienced professionals working in major studios or with high-profile clients can earn significantly higher incomes. Overall, compensation can range from modest to high, depending on skill level and reputation.

How do you become a music engineer?

To become a music engineer, individuals typically pursue a degree or diploma in audio engineering, music production, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships, building a portfolio, and mastering industry-standard tools like Pro Tools or Logic Pro are essential steps. Strong technical skills, knowledge of acoustics, and familiarity with recording equipment are also important for success in this role.

What cities in California are hiring for Music Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Engineer job openings:

Music Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,420 per year, or $48.3 per hour.

Music Teacher (Part Time)

The Girls' Middle School

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$55 - $65/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

The Girls’ Middle School

Since its founding in 1998, The Girls’ Middle School (GMS) has been committed to progressive education and innovative programming, educating the diverse middle school students who make up our vibrant, inclusive community. Our project-based curriculum encourages creative problem-solving, collaborative teamwork, and independent thought. GMS educates girls* during a pivotal time in their lives. Students develop self-knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills supported by a staff highly attuned to their changing emotional and social needs. GMS encourages girls to find their voices, take risks, and become self-reliant. Learn more about GMS: www.girlsms.org and https://youtu.be/SatUBcjwkxA?feature=shared

*At GMS, “girls” refers to cis girls, trans girls, non-binary youth, gender non-conforming youth, gender queer youth, and any girl-identified youth.

Mission

The Girls’ Middle School educates girls at a crucial time in life. We create an inclusive environment where academic growth is nourished. A GMS girl discovers her strengths and expresses her voice while respecting the contributions of others.

Ideal Candidate

GMS seeks a part-time Music Faculty member to lead classes three days per week in the Fall semester for all grades.

The ideal candidate will have experience teaching music or a related field and feel confident leading a classroom independently. They bring a passion for music-making and can joyfully communicate that energy to students. They are friendly, enthusiastic, proactive, and forward-thinking. They are detail-oriented, well-organized, able to design and implement curriculum aligned with GMS values, and possess strong time-management skills.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Lead and manage music classes, including planning and delivering engaging lessons in vocal and/or instrumental work, rhythm, and creative composition

· Create a classroom environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging and are excited to learn music

· Inspire students to experience music as a joyful, expressive, and meaningful process

· Design learning experiences that balance skill-building with open-ended exploration and creative risk-taking

· Nurture a supportive community where students build confidence, collaborate, and develop teamwork through ensemble and shared music-making

· Support students in developing curiosity and their individual musical voice

· Foster a classroom culture where students listen, contribute, and grow together with respect and care

· Establish clear routines and expectations that support focus, respect, and productive music-making

· Guide students in caring for shared instruments and materials, and maintaining a thoughtful learning environment

What We Look for in a Music Faculty Candidate

· Experience teaching music or a related field, with confidence in leading a classroom independently

· Comfort with a range of musical approaches (vocal, instrumental, rhythm, and/or digital music tools)

· Commitment to experiential, project-based learning and progressive pedagogy

· Demonstrated focus on supporting girls in discovering their strengths and finding their voice

· Ability to positively engage students and collaborate closely with fellow educators

· Ability to be a self-starter who is organized, adaptable, and proactive in a dynamic classroom environment

· Strong classroom management skills, with the ability to guide students with clarity, warmth, and consistency