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Music Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Head of Music

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$180 - $280/hr

... technology. We launched in January 2023 with the first human-like AI voice model. Today, we serve ... ElevenCreative empowers creators and marketers to generate and edit speech, music, image, and video ...

Music technology (DAWs, notation software) * Composition and Songwriting * Music education (secondary methods, instrumental methods, etc) * Music business (copyright, licensing, management, non ...

Music technology (DAWs, notation software) * Composition and Songwriting * Music education (secondary methods, instrumental methods, etc) * Music business (copyright, licensing, management, non ...

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Music Tech information

See California salary details

$10.9K

$46.5K

$56.7K

How much do music tech jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for music tech in California is $46,455.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a music tech?

A Music Tech, short for Music Technician, is a professional who supports the technical aspects of music production and performance. They work with audio equipment, recording software, and instruments to ensure sound quality in studios, live events, or educational settings. Music Techs may handle setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of sound systems, as well as assist musicians and producers in achieving the best possible audio results. Their expertise bridges the gap between music and technology, making them essential in modern music creation and performance.

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

To thrive as a Music Tech, you need a solid background in audio engineering, sound design, and music production, often supported by a relevant degree or vocational training. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Ableton Live, as well as experience with recording hardware and studio equipment, is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication set top candidates apart in this field. These skills ensure high-quality sound production, smooth technical operations, and successful collaboration with artists and production teams.

What are some common challenges faced by music tech professionals, and how can they be addressed?

Music tech professionals often encounter challenges such as keeping up with rapidly evolving software and hardware, troubleshooting technical issues during live events or recording sessions, and effectively communicating with both creative artists and technical teams. Staying up to date with industry trends through continuous learning, practicing proactive equipment maintenance, and developing strong interpersonal skills can help address these challenges. Collaborating closely with other team members and being adaptable are also key to success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Music Tech vs Audio Engineer?

AspectMusic TechAudio Engineer
Required CredentialsMusic technology degrees, certifications in audio softwareAudio engineering degrees, certifications in sound recording
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live venues, tech companiesRecording studios, concert venues, broadcast stations
Industry UsageMusic production, tech development, live sound techSound recording, mixing, mastering, live sound

Music Tech professionals focus on developing and managing music technology tools, software, and systems, often combining technical skills with music knowledge. Audio Engineers primarily handle recording, mixing, and mastering audio for music or media projects. While both roles require technical expertise and work in similar environments, Music Tech emphasizes technology development and support, whereas Audio Engineering centers on sound production and quality control.

How to become a music technician?

To become a music technician, gain experience with audio equipment, sound systems, and music technology through education or hands-on work. Certifications in audio engineering or sound design can enhance job prospects, and familiarity with digital audio workstations and live sound setup is often required.

What can I do with a music tech degree?

A music tech degree prepares individuals for careers such as audio engineer, music producer, sound designer, or recording technician. Graduates often work in recording studios, live sound environments, or media production, utilizing skills in audio editing, mixing, and music software tools like Pro Tools or Ableton Live.

What do you do in music tech?

A music tech professional works with audio equipment, software, and digital tools to produce, record, edit, and mix music. They may also troubleshoot technical issues, operate sound systems, and collaborate with artists or producers to achieve desired sound quality.

What jobs can you do with music technology?

Music technology skills can lead to roles such as audio engineer, music producer, sound designer, live sound technician, or studio technician. These jobs often require knowledge of digital audio workstations (DAWs), sound equipment, and acoustics, and may involve working in recording studios, live venues, or media production environments.

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Music Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Music Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Music Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,455 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Executive Director, Technology and Applied Composition

SAN FRANCISCO CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$175K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Description

San Francisco Conservatory of Music is one of the world's premier institutions for the study of music, located at the epicenter of art and technology, in the heart of San Francisco. SFCM's community includes over 450 talented student musicians from around the globe, over 100 internationally renowned faculty members, and an amazing staff of creative innovators who make the magic happen on campus. ย ย 


In Fall 2020, SFCM opened the Ute and William K. Bowes, Jr. Center for Performing Arts (the Bowes Center), a landmark building that transforms San Francisco's arts district with an unparalleled space for students to create, share, and engage with music. SFCM also recently acquired Opus3 Artists, Askonas Holt, and Pentatone Records, giving conservatory students a direct link to some of the most successful artists worldwide and inviting limitless opportunities for connection and collaboration.ย 

The Technology and Applied Composition (TAC) program at SFCM is a groundbreaking collegiate music program at the intersection of composition, music technology, and electronic media and San Francisco Conservatory of Music is seeking the next Executive Director.


The ideal candidate will have a bold vision for the future of the intersection of technology and music, have experience in curriculum design, can embrace cross-departmental collaboration, be an excellent communicator and have strong business acumen. ย The ideal candidate has also demonstrated the ability to thoughtfully integrate emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, as creative tools to expand, enhance, and reimagine student artistic output while maintaining a strong commitment to originality and artistic integrity. ย 


Principal Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provide strategic direction and leadership for the Technology and Applied Composition Program, ensuring its alignment with the overall mission and vision of SFCM. Include hyperlink https://sfcm.edu/discover/about-us/mission-vision
  • Support and direct a comprehensive curriculum that integrates technology and composition, while fostering creativity, experimentation and collaboration among students.
  • Support and direct a program that embraces interdisciplinary collaboration and industry standards across film and game scoring, sound design and audio engineering, electronic and experimental composition, coding and instrument building, through emerging creative practices ย in sound and visual media.
  • Collaborate with faculty members to recruit, retain, and mentor a diverse and talented student body.
  • Foster strong partnerships with industry professionals, technological innovators, and artistic organizations to enhance opportunities for student growth and development.
  • Remain at the forefront of emerging trends and advancements in music technology as they pertain to composition and education, seamlessly infusing cutting-edge techniques and tools into the program.
  • Cultivate an inclusive and supportive learning environment that encourages collaboration, experimentation, and artistic exploration.
  • Represent the program and SFCM at conferences, industry events, and community engagements.
  • Establish and execute assessment efforts to promote ongoing program improvement and address student needs.ย 
  • Lead program reviews of the department and degree program.
  • Serve as a faculty member to coordinate and teach the weekly TAC forum (and potentially other relevant coursework).
  • Serve as an academic advisor for TAC students.
  • Curate and arrange visits from industry-leading guest artists, lecturers, and performers.
  • Recruit, train, and mentor department faculty in collaboration with the Provost and Dean.
  • Create and maintain an effective working environment for all personnel within the department.
  • Conduct a semesterly review of faculty and staff.
  • Collaborate with the director of admissions and admissions staff on timely student communications and on efforts to identify and yield prospective undergraduates throughout the enrollment process--including, as needed, recruitment travel, audition planning and execution, contributing to the evaluation of applicants, offering trial lessons or class visits, and participating in other special events for families, students, teachers and/or counselors.
  • Communicate effectively with internal and external constituencies.
  • Participate in storytelling led by SFCM's marketing and communications team to highlight the school, program, and its experts. Further develop the Technology and Applied Composition brand on industry-relevant social media channels while adhering to SFCM brand guidelines.
  • Oversee budgetary planning and management, as well as departmental resources/equipment.
  • Perform other duties as needed to cultivate a phenomenal student learning experience.ย 

Requirements

  • A master's degree or higher in music, music technology, composition, interactive media, ย or a related field.
  • 5-7 years of leadership experience.
  • Command a profound understanding of the intersection between technology and music composition, boasting mastery of industry-standard software and hardware.
  • Exude profound leadership acumen, capable of inspiring and motivating a dynamic team comprising faculty members, staff, and students alike.
  • Significant professional experience in music composition, technology, or a related field, with a proven track record of creative and innovative work.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
  • Experience in program development and curriculum design, preferably in an educational or arts-related setting.
  • A passion for music education and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment.
  • Knowledge of current trends and advancements in music technology, digital music production, and media composition.
  • A record of successful teaching experience, and significant experience in an educational setting for collegiate students.
  • Dynamic management and excellent interpersonal skills, with demonstrated organizational, administrative, and financial skills.
  • Ability to develop and communicate policies and ideas clearly and effectively in written and oral form. ย 
  • Self-starter with the ability to learn, develop, and embrace productivity workflows that support the management of an academic department.ย 

How to Apply

We prefer to receive applications through our website. This position will be posted until filled.

Please submit the following in your application:

  • Letter of intent that addresses your relevant expertise, experiences, and interests
  • A current resume or CV
  • Names and contact information for three (3) references
  • Links to online samples of your professional work or portfolio

EOE

SFCM is a fully committed equal employment opportunity institution and welcomes applications from all qualified persons. ย SFCM will not discriminate against applicants for employment and employees because of race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer and genetic characteristics), status as a Vietnam-era veteran or special disabled veteran, age, citizenship, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state and local laws.