1

Senior Acoustic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Acoustic Engineer

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$99K - $159K/yr

Job Summary DRS NPS has an immediate need for a Senior Acoustic Engineer who will be a subject matter expert on the acoustic design and analysis of high performance rotating equipment and associated ...

Senior Acoustic Engineer

Fitchburg, MA · Hybrid

$99K - $159K/yr

Job Summary DRS NPS has an immediate need for a Senior Acoustic Engineer who will be a subject matter expert on the acoustic design and analysis of high performance rotating equipment and associated ...

Senior Audio Engineer - Acoustic

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

JOB SUMMARY Apptronik is seeking a Senior Audio Engineer specializing in acoustics to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of sound performance across products and environments. This role ...

Senior Acoustics Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

The Senior Acoustics Engineer owns acoustic and noise compliance design for our behind-the-meter ... Own acoustic design and Basis of Design (BOD) for BTM power generation and energy storage assets ...

Senior Audio Engineer - Acoustic

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

JOB SUMMARY Apptronik is seeking a Senior Audio Engineer specializing in acoustics to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of sound performance across products and environments. This role ...

Sr Acoustics Consultant

$118K - $165K/yr

At SSR, we're more than a leading engineering design, consulting, and planning firm-we're a team of ... Design acoustic treatments and assemblies to support speech privacy & intelligibility, patient ...

Senior Acoustics Consultant

Arlington, VA · On-site

$118K - $130K/yr

Development of initial, project-specific Acoustic design goals/concepts * Development of ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Architectural Acoustics, Audio Technology, or similar ...

... engineering and construction disciplines, developing the most innovative product and project ... Strong knowledge of acoustic test methods and standards * Ability to read and understand ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Senior Acoustic Engineer information

See salary details

$10

$61

$86

How much do senior acoustic engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for senior acoustic engineer in the United States is $61.45, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53.12 and $68.51 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Senior Acoustic Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of acoustics, sound measurement, and noise control, typically supported by a degree in acoustical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with simulation software (such as EASE or CadnaA), measurement tools, and relevant certifications like Institute of Acoustics (IOA) membership are common requirements. Strong problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are essential for delivering accurate acoustic analyses, effective client solutions, and successful project outcomes in diverse environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Acoustic Engineers in large-scale building projects?

Senior Acoustic Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing stringent acoustic requirements with architectural and budget constraints. They must collaborate closely with architects, builders, and mechanical engineers to ensure that sound control measures are effectively integrated without compromising the design or functionality of the space. Additionally, troubleshooting unexpected noise issues during construction or post-occupancy can require creative problem-solving and effective communication with multidisciplinary teams.

Are acoustic engineers in demand?

Acoustic engineers are in demand in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and entertainment, where sound quality and noise control are important. The field requires specialized skills in acoustics, sound measurement, and analysis, often supported by certifications and proficiency with tools like MATLAB or CAD software.

What is the difference between Senior Acoustic Engineer vs Acoustic Consultant?

AspectSenior Acoustic EngineerAcoustic Consultant
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Acoustics or related field; certifications like ASASimilar credentials; often holds ASA certification
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and analyzing acoustic systems in labs or on-siteAdvising clients, conducting assessments, and providing acoustic solutions
Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, constructionConsulting firms, architecture, environmental agencies

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications. While Senior Acoustic Engineers focus on technical design and analysis within engineering environments, Acoustic Consultants primarily advise clients and conduct assessments. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their focus—technical engineering versus consulting and client interaction.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Acoustic Engineers in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-end consulting can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and project scope, with top earners often working in high-demand sectors or holding managerial positions.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Acoustic Engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within engineering fields. Top-tier engineers in highly specialized areas or those in leadership positions at large companies may reach this level, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, and extensive experience. Salary levels vary based on industry, location, and company size.

What are Senior Acoustic Engineers?

Senior Acoustic Engineers are experienced professionals who specialize in the science of sound and vibration. They design, analyze, and improve acoustic environments in various settings, such as buildings, vehicles, studios, and public spaces. Their responsibilities often include noise control, sound insulation, and optimizing audio quality, as well as leading teams and managing complex projects. They typically collaborate with architects, engineers, and designers to ensure that sound requirements are met both technically and aesthetically.

Do acoustic engineers make good money?

Acoustic engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with specialized skills in sound analysis and design can earn higher wages, often supplemented by certifications and advanced degrees.
More about Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Acoustic Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Acoustic Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Acoustic Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Acoustic Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Senior Acoustic Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,824 per year, or $61.5 per hour.
Senior Acoustic Engineer

Senior Acoustic Engineer

Leonardo DRS

Fitchburg, MA • On-site

$99K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Leonardo DRS rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

163rd of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Job ID: 113807
The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world.
Job Summary
DRS NPS has an immediate need for a Senior Acoustic Engineer who will be a subject matter expert on the acoustic design and analysis of high performance rotating equipment and associated static structures. You will provide direct contributions to acoustic design performance considerations for multiple product lines including Steam Turbines, large Electric Motors, Integral Blowers / Compressors and other propulsion system components.
The ideal candidate is an individual possessing strong mechanical engineering technical skills, a superior knowledge of airborne and structure-borne acoustic analysis, and an understanding of the design considerations for large rotating equipment.
Job Responsibilities
You are expected to work independently or collaboratively as part of an integrated project team, using judgment and discretion in making complex decisions. You will act as a SME and mentor to more junior colleagues.
You will execute acoustic analysis on large rotating assemblies, including:
Structure Borne Noise
Airborne Noise
Narrow Band and Octave Analysis
Transmission Paths
Mitigation Methods
Modeling Tools will include:
  • Empirical methods
  • Finite Element (low frequency structure borne or airborne noise)
  • Boundary Element Method (low frequency airborne noise)
  • Statistical Energy Analysis (high frequency noise)

Critical to success in the role is the ability to breakdown complicated technical challenges and find innovative solutions that meet the program's requirements without adding unnecessary weight, cost, or risk. You will need the ability to clearly document and communicate, orally and in writing, technical and programmatic information to technical and non-technical individuals including the team, project leadership, and to other functions including executive management. As part of regular activities, this role will have customer interaction where you will confidently and competently represent DRS in front of customers, including the US Navy.
You will review, analyze, and status project milestones and provide accurate estimates to complete projects or analyses.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor of Science degree from a 4-year accredited college or university in Mechanical Engineering or other suitable degree with a minimum of 5 years of experience in evaluating acoustic performance of turbo machinery assemblies, large rotating machinery assemblies (e.g., motors and or generators) or similar components.
Expert-level ability to perform Finite Element and Statistical Energy Analyses
Experience in execution of acoustic testing and model validation, including sound intensity, modal analysis, and data acquisition with instrumentation such as accelerometers, microphones, and strain gauges.
Prior hands-on experience to be able to evaluate model and physical test data to recognize good vs bad data, forced vs. resonant behavior, background vs. operational noise, etc.
Experience in the analysis of acoustic sources generated by flow-induced compressible fluids including preceding elements
Expert experience with the MATLAB for data analysis and modeling and/or programming to create application specific analysis tools
You must be a US citizen and be able to pass screening for a security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with the development of rotating machinery and associated manufacturing drawings.
Familiarity with data acquisition systems for acoustic testing and digital signal processing
Prior experience with data post processing, optimization and analysis
Practical knowledge and application of statistical analysis methods
Knowledge of MIL-STD- 740-1, and -2, MIL-STD-1474.
Familiarity with Computer Aided Design (CAD) Tools (Siemens NX and/or Solidworks preferred).
Experience with Program Management tools (MS Project preferred) and/or agile Project Management tools- (Jira preferred).
Experience with execution of projects for the US military.
Active security clearance.
Key Words for Search
Finite Element Analysis, FEA
Statistical Energy Analysis, SEA
Boundary Element Method, BEM
MATLAB
Modal Analysis
Statistical Analysis
Model(ing)
Simulation
Test
Noise
Reduction
Mitigation
Measurement
Analysis
Aerodynamic
Fluid dynamic(s)
Structure Borne, SBN
Air Borne, ABN
Acoustic(s)
Noise, Vibration and Harshness, NVH
Engineers
Steam
Turbine
Fan(s)
U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.
The salary range for this position is $99,740-$159,028. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
*Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
#LI-LT1 #INDNPS
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

What Leonardo DRS employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom