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Music Recording Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Create Music Group

Staff AI Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$190 - $210/hr

... leading music and entertainment company. The company operates as a record label, distribution ... Job Summary This Staff AI Engineer role sits at the intersection of AI systems architecture and ...

Create Music Group

Staff AI Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

... leading music and entertainment company. The company operates as a record label, distribution ... Job Summary This Staff AI Engineer role sits at the intersection of AI systems architecture and ...

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All JobsMusic Recording Engineer JobsMusic Recording Engineer Jobs in California

Music Recording Engineer information

See California salary details

$5

$47

$75

How much do music recording engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for music recording engineer in California is $47.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.65 and $59.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a music recording engineer do?

A Music Recording Engineer is responsible for capturing, mixing, and editing audio during music recording sessions. They operate recording equipment, set up microphones, and work closely with artists and producers to achieve the desired sound quality. Their expertise ensures that all elements of a song are recorded clearly and balanced properly. They may also handle post-production tasks like mixing and mastering to prepare music for release. Overall, they play a crucial role in the technical and creative aspects of music production.

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

Music Recording Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing differing creative visions between artists, producers, and record labels, as well as handling technical issues like equipment malfunctions or acoustical problems. They must balance delivering high-quality sound with meeting tight deadlines, which can require quick problem-solving and adaptability. Additionally, engineers need strong communication skills to guide artists through the recording process and create a comfortable, productive studio environment. Overcoming these challenges is key to producing outstanding recordings and building lasting professional relationships.

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

A Music Recording Engineer needs a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, acoustics, and recording techniques, often supported by a degree or certification in audio production. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools or Logic Pro, as well as audio interfaces, microphones, and mixing consoles, is essential. Excellent attention to detail, creativity, and strong communication skills help engineers collaborate effectively with artists and producers. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality recordings that meet artistic and technical standards in a competitive music industry.

What is the difference between Music Recording Engineer vs Sound Technician?

AspectMusic Recording EngineerSound Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or certification in audio engineering or music productionOften has technical training or certifications in sound systems or audio technology
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, music production facilitiesLive events, concerts, broadcast environments
Industry UsageMusic industry, recording labels, production companiesEvent venues, broadcasting stations, live sound companies

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, a Music Recording Engineer focuses on capturing and mixing music in studio settings, whereas a Sound Technician primarily manages sound during live events or broadcasts. The roles often overlap but differ in environment and specific responsibilities.

Are music recording engineers in demand?

Music recording engineers are in demand in the entertainment industry, especially in areas with active music scenes and recording studios. Employment growth is steady but competitive, requiring technical skills with digital audio workstations and certifications to stay current. Opportunities often depend on experience, networking, and the ability to adapt to new recording technologies.

How do you become a music recording engineer?

To become a music recording engineer, individuals typically pursue a degree or diploma in audio engineering, music production, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or assistant roles in recording studios and developing skills with industry-standard software and equipment are essential steps in building a career in this field.

How much money do music recording engineers make?

Music recording engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, with experienced professionals or those working in major markets earning higher. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the complexity of projects, and many engineers supplement income through freelance work or side projects.

What are popular job titles related to Music Recording Engineer jobs in California?

For Music Recording Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Music Recording Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Music Recording Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Music Recording Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Recording Engineer job openings:

Music Recording Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Music Recording 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 $98,886 per year, or $47.5 per hour.

Intern, Membership & Industry Relations (Los Angeles Chapter)

The Recording Academy

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

INTERNSHIP DETAILS
FALL INTERNSHIP
APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR STUDENTS: 7/31/2026
FALL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM DATES: 9/8/2026 - 12/11/2026
*The Los Angeles Chapter Intern position pays county/state minimum wage rates, based on work location.
WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR
The Recording Academy Los Angeles Chapter is seeking a "rock star" student for a fall 2026 Internship with our team.
Celebrating music through the GRAMMY® Awards, The Recording Academy continues its legacy as the premier national organization for honoring achievements in the recording arts and supporting the music community. As a membership organization, we represent the most talented music professionals in the world. Our members include recording artists, producers, engineers, attorneys, music supervisors, composers/arrangers, managers, agents, social media and record label executives and many others.
Our paid Internship Program offers a unique opportunity for full-time college students (juniors or seniors) to gain on-site training in office administration, events management and artist relations, in exchange for college credit. Candidates should be energetic, hard-working and have aspirations of a career in the music industry.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • Internship duration is for a semester (12 weeks or equivalent).

  • Hours are part-time (20-24 hours a week).

  • Intern will work with the chapter office on local events during regular business hours as well as some evenings and weekends.

  • Internship will provide in-depth exposure to professional recording industry techniques and practices.

  • Projects may include assistance with event management, educational programs, newsletters, membership recruitment, database management, demographics analysis, and administrative office support.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
  • Currently enrolled in a college/university. One year of course work towards degree in related field is preferred.

  • Letter from school stating that intern will receive college credit for the Recording Academy internship.

  • Display an interest in music and commitment to a career in the recording industry.

  • Possess strong verbal, written and analytical skills.

  • Exhibit proficient computer skills.

  • Be a junior, senior or graduate student.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS FOR CERTAIN ROLES:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and sit for long periods of time, and work at a computer for long periods of time. The employee will be required to lift and/or move up to 60 pounds.
ABOUT THE RECORDING ACADEMY AND ITS AFFILIATES
RECORDING ACADEMY
The Recording Academy represents the voices of performers, songwriters, producers, engineers, and all music professionals. Dedicated to ensuring the recording arts remain a thriving part of our shared cultural heritage, the Academy honors music's history while investing in its future through the GRAMMY Museum, advocates on behalf of music creators, supports music people in times of need through MusiCares, and celebrates artistic excellence through the GRAMMY Awards-music's only peer-recognized accolade and highest achievement. As the world's leading society of music professionals, we work year-round to foster a more inspiring world for creators.
LATIN RECORDING ACADEMY
The Latin Recording Academy is an international, membership-based organization comprised of Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking recording artists, musicians, songwriters, producers and other creative and technical recording professionals. The organization is dedicated to improving the quality of life and cultural condition for Latin music and its makers. In addition to producing the Latin GRAMMY Awards to honor excellence in the recorded arts and sciences, The Latin Recording Academy provides educational and outreach programs for the Latin music community either directly or through its Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation.
LATIN GRAMMY CULTURAL FOUNDATION
The Latin GRAMMY Cultural Foundation is a charitable organization established by the Latin Recording Academy in 2014. The organization is dedicated to creating opportunities for the next generation of Latin music creators through scholarships, educational programs, grants, and access to creators and industry executives.
MUSICARES
A friend and ally of the music community, MusiCares was established by the Recording Academy to safeguard the health and well-being of all music people. A four-star charity and safety net in times of need, MusiCares offers confidential preventative, recovery, and emergency programs to address financial, medical, and personal health issues. Through the generosity of our donors and volunteer professionals, our dedicated team works across the country to ensure the music community has the resources and support it needs.
GRAMMY MUSEUM
The GRAMMY Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating and exploring music from yesterday and today to inspire the music of tomorrow through music preservation, education, exhibitions, and public programming and aims to create a world in which shared love of music sparks curiosity, creativity, and community. Programs include GRAMMY in the Schools education programs that are offered year-round for students, teachers, and schools throughout the United States.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The Recording Academy, its affiliates, and the music industry have a strong culture of inclusion and respect for everyone. The Recording Academy makes intentional, courageous, and principled decisions for stronger business outcomes and ensures that all creators and professionals live and work in a fair and safe environment. It is the Recording Academy's policy to provide equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. The Recording Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race (nor traits historically associated with race, including, but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, religion (including religious dress and grooming), creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), national origin, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, family care status, military or veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by law. The Recording Academy will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship to the Recording Academy. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, access to benefits and training, recruitment, hiring, transfer, and social and recreational programs.

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