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Musical Acoustics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Acoustics Engineer - Airpods

Cupertino, CA · On-site

Apple has assembled a world-class Acoustics team that enables our customers to experience music with delight, communicate with clarity and appreciate our products without disturbance from noise. In ...

Apple

Acoustics Engineer - Airpods

Cupertino, CA

$184K - $324K/yr

Apple has assembled a world-class Acoustics team that enables our customers to experience music with delight, communicate with clarity and appreciate our products without disturbance from noise. In ...

Arista HealthCare

Musical Volunteer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Music has a remarkable way of reaching people when words fall short. Whether it's a favorite hymn ... Guitar, piano, violin, flute, harp, ukulele, and other acoustic instruments are encouraged.

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Acoustics

Denver, CO · On-site

Apple has assembled an elite Acoustics team that enables our customers to experience music with delight, communicate with clarity, and enjoy elegant sound throughout our product line. In Apple ...

Experis

Acoustic Test Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

... in acoustics, audio/electrical engineering, physics, audiology/hearing science, music/audio technology, biomedical engineering, or a related technical field -- or equivalent hands-on lab/test ...

Apple

Product Design Engineer - Acoustics

Denver, CO

$134K - $249K/yr

Apple has assembled an elite Acoustics team that enables our customers to experience music with delight, communicate with clarity, and enjoy elegant sound throughout our product line. In Apple ...

Infotech Sourcing

Acoustic Test Engineer

Kirkland, WA · On-site

... in acoustics, audio/electrical engineering, physics, audiology/hearing science, music/audio technology, biomedical engineering, or a related technical field -- or equivalent hands-on lab/test ...

NV5

Acoustical Consultant

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$90K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in acoustics, audio/music engineering, mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, or physics including relevant classes or a degree concentration in acoustics or vibration ...

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Musical Acoustics information

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How much do musical acoustics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for musical acoustics in the United States is $36.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $47.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid job in music?

In musical acoustics, the highest paid roles are often senior audio engineers, music producers, or sound designers, especially those working in high-profile projects or for major companies. These professionals typically have advanced technical skills, industry experience, and may hold certifications in audio technology or acoustics. Salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and the scope of projects.

What jobs can I do if I like music?

Jobs related to musical acoustics include sound engineer, audio technician, acoustical consultant, music producer, and recording engineer. These roles often require knowledge of sound measurement, acoustical analysis, and familiarity with audio equipment and software. They can be found in recording studios, concert venues, research labs, and manufacturing environments.

What are some common challenges musical acousticians face when collaborating with instrument makers and performers?

Musical acousticians often work closely with instrument makers and performers to enhance instrument design and sound quality. One common challenge is bridging the gap between scientific measurements and subjective perceptions of sound, as performers may describe tonal qualities differently from how they are measured. Effective communication and mutual understanding are essential to translate technical findings into practical improvements. Additionally, acousticians must balance technical recommendations with artistic preferences and manufacturing constraints, requiring flexibility and collaborative problem-solving.

What is musical acoustics?

Musical acoustics is the scientific study of how sound is produced, transmitted, and perceived in the context of music. It explores the physical properties of musical instruments, the acoustics of performance spaces, and how humans interpret musical sounds. This field combines physics, engineering, music theory, and psychology to understand the mechanics behind musical tones, harmony, resonance, and timbre. Researchers and professionals in musical acoustics may work on improving instrument design, optimizing concert hall acoustics, or analyzing the perception of musical sounds.

What is the difference between Musical Acoustics vs Audio Engineer?

AspectMusical AcousticsAudio Engineer
CredentialsDegree in acoustics, physics, or music technologyDegree or certification in audio engineering or sound design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, concert hallsRecording studios, live events, broadcasting
Industry UsageSound quality in musical instruments, concert acousticsSound recording, mixing, live sound reinforcement

Musical Acoustics focuses on the science of sound in musical contexts, including instrument design and concert hall acoustics. In contrast, an Audio Engineer specializes in recording, mixing, and producing sound for music and media. While both roles require knowledge of sound principles, Musical Acoustics is more research-oriented, whereas Audio Engineering is more practical and production-focused.

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

To thrive as a Musical Acoustician, a solid background in physics, mathematics, and music theory, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework, is essential. Familiarity with audio analysis software, acoustic measurement tools, and simulation systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills help translate scientific findings into practical applications for musicians, instrument makers, or architects. These competencies are crucial for designing, testing, and improving musical instruments or spaces to achieve optimal sound quality.

What are the career options in acoustics?

Careers in acoustics include roles such as acoustic engineer, sound designer, audio technician, and research scientist, often requiring knowledge of physics, signal processing, and specialized tools like MATLAB or CAD software. Opportunities exist in industries like music production, environmental noise control, architectural design, and product development. Advanced positions may require a master's or doctoral degree in acoustics or related fields, along with relevant certifications and experience.

What can I do with a musicology degree?

A musicology degree prepares individuals for careers in music research, education, archival work, and arts administration. Graduates can work as musicologists, archivists, music educators, or in roles involving music criticism and curation, often requiring strong analytical, research, and communication skills. Additional certifications or experience with music software and historical research can enhance employment opportunities.
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Musical Acoustics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Musical Acoustics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,503 per year, or $36.3 per hour.
Visiting Assistant Professor - Music Technology, Non-Tenure Track

Visiting Assistant Professor - Music Technology, Non-Tenure Track

New York University

New York, NY • On-site

$74K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

New York University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

105th of 553 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development invites applications for a non-tenure track Visiting Assistant Professor position in the Music Technology program to begin on September 1, 2026. The appointed faculty member will be part of the Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions. This is a one-year appointment.
We are seeking a dynamic and innovative colleague to join our Music Technology program. The field of specialization within Music Technology for this position is open, but we are particularly interested in candidates who could teach in the following areas: Digital Signal Theory, Audio Application Development, Musical Acoustics, and Audio Engineering.
NYU Steinhardt is a uniquely interdisciplinary school and committed to a holistic understanding of people and human development across the lifespan. We aim to advance knowledge, creativity, and innovation at the crossroads of culture, education, and human development. Our award-winning faculty, students, and alumni engage in ground-breaking research and artistic creation, at the cutting edge of their professions.
Responsibilities:
Expected teaching load is six undergraduate or graduate courses per year (3 in Fall and 3 in Spring). Other duties include supervision of undergraduate and master's students, developing and maintaining professional bridges to the music technology industry, student recruitment, and program administration. Participation in faculty meetings, committees, and other services appropriate to a university faculty member is also required.
Qualifications
A doctoral degree in music technology, computer science, engineering, digital media arts or a closely related field is required by the start date. A successful applicant will demonstrate commitment to excellence as exemplified by publications, performances, installations, compositions, and/or hardware/software design. Experience in teaching and mentoring of students is desirable.
Application Instructions
Please apply online with a letter of application, curriculum vitae, teaching statement, and names and contact information for three referees who will be automatically contacted by Interfolio on your behalf to upload confidential letters. Applicants may choose to submit sample syllabi of courses they have taught or would be prepared to teach in Digital Signal Theory, Audio Application Development, Musical Acoustics, and/or Audio Engineering. Application review will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
Questions can be directed to Dr. Brian McFee (brian.mcfee@nyu.edu), search committee chair.
The NYU Steinhardt Music Technology program is one of the premier programs nationally and internationally at the intersection of music, sound, audio technology, engineering, and cognitive psychology/neuroscience with over 300 active students in our thriving undergraduate, master's, Tonmeister, and PhD programs.
For more information on the Program in Music Technology, visithttps://steinhardt.nyu.edu/programs/music-technology
In compliance with NYC's Pay Transparency Act, the annual base salary range for this position is $74,000 - $114,000. New York University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

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About New York University

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Since its founding in 1831, NYU has been an innovator in higher education, reaching out to an emerging middle class, embracing an urban identity and professional focus, and promoting a global vision that informs its 20 schools and colleges. Today, that trailblazing spirit makes NYU one of the most prominent and respected research universities in the world, featuring top-ranked academic programs and accepting fewer than one in eight undergraduates. Anchored in New York City and with degree-granting campuses in Abu Dhabi and Shanghai as well as 12 study away sites throughout the world, NYU is a leader in global education, with more international students and more students studying abroad than any other US university.

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