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Sfx Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Absurd Ventures

Senior Technical Sound Designer

San Rafael, CA

$140K - $170K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A generalist mindset with the ability to contribute to various aspects of audio production, including SFX, ambiances, music implementation, VO mixing, and technical script implementation. * A keen ...

Noor Staffing Group

Senior Editor

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Execute finishing components including motion graphics (After Effects), typography, color (DaVinci Resolve or equivalent), music selection, sound design, and SFX polish * Partner with production ...

Wine Company

Be Seen First

Videographer/Retoucher

Napa, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A portfolio of work showcasing before/after photo retouching and video editing, demonstrating understanding of framing, pacing, lighting, SFX/VFX, audio mixing, and color grading * Animation ...

Last Bottle Wines

Videographer/ Retoucher

Napa, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

A portfolio of work showcasing before/after photo retouching and video editing, demonstrating understanding of framing, pacing, lighting, SFX/VFX, audio mixing, and color grading * Animation ...

Nen Creative

Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Handle sound design and basic mix work, including music selection, SFX, and dialogue cleanup * Color grade footage to match the look and feel of each project. * Create simple motion graphics, lower ...

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All JobsSfx JobsSfx Jobs in California

Sfx information

See California salary details

$23.7K

$54.5K

$85.4K

How much do sfx jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for sfx in California is $54,465.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $60,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an SFX artist?

To thrive as an SFX Artist, you need a solid background in visual effects, artistic creativity, and knowledge of design principles, often supported by a degree in visual arts or film production. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, and Houdini, as well as familiarity with practical effects materials and techniques, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in collaborative production environments. Mastery of these skills ensures the ability to create believable effects that enhance storytelling and meet the technical demands of film, television, and live events.

What are some common challenges faced by SFX professionals on set, and how can they be managed?

SFX professionals often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, changing creative direction, and the need to ensure safety while delivering realistic effects. Managing these challenges typically involves strong communication with directors, adherence to safety protocols, and flexibility in problem-solving. Successful SFX teams also conduct thorough planning and rehearsals before filming to anticipate potential issues and minimize disruptions on set.

What is the difference between Sfx vs Audio Engineer?

AspectSfxAudio Engineer
Primary RoleDesigning and creating sound effects for mediaRecording, mixing, and mastering audio for various projects
Required SkillsSound design, creativity, editing softwareAudio recording, editing, technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentPost-production studios, film, gaming, advertisingRecording studios, broadcast, live events
CertificationsSound design courses, software proficiencyAudio engineering degrees, certifications

While both Sfx and Audio Engineer roles involve working with sound, Sfx specialists focus on creating sound effects for media, whereas Audio Engineers handle the overall recording and mixing of audio. The roles often overlap in post-production, but their core responsibilities and skill sets differ.

Is Sfx makeup a good career?

Sfx makeup artists create special effects for film, television, theater, and events, requiring skills in prosthetics, painting, and sculpting. The career can be competitive and often involves freelance work or employment with production companies, with opportunities increasing as the entertainment industry grows. Building a strong portfolio and gaining certifications can improve job prospects in this field.

What is an SFX professional?

SFX professionals, or special effects artists, are responsible for creating visual or practical effects for films, television, theater, and live events. Their work can involve designing explosions, weather effects, prosthetics, animatronics, and other elements that cannot be achieved through regular filming. SFX artists use a combination of physical props, mechanical devices, and digital technology to bring scripts to life and enhance storytelling. Their role often requires creativity, technical skill, and a strong understanding of safety regulations.

Is it hard to get into SFX?

Getting into SFX (special effects) work can be competitive, as it often requires technical skills, creativity, and experience with tools like Adobe After Effects or Blender. Building a strong portfolio and gaining relevant training or certifications can improve chances of entry into the field.

How to get a job in SFX?

To get a job in SFX (special effects), develop skills in practical effects, computer-generated imagery (CGI), and relevant software like Adobe After Effects or Maya. Building a strong portfolio, gaining experience through internships or freelance projects, and networking within the industry can improve your chances of employment in SFX roles.

What are popular job titles related to Sfx jobs in California?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Sfx jobs in California are:

Sfx jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sfx job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 14% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,465 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Audio Intern (Unpaid for Course Credit Only)

Dreamscape Learn

Culver City, CA • On-site

$18.25 - $23.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

We are looking for an Audio Intern to assist in creating immersive soundscapes for
our exciting and cinematic VR experiences. Your responsibilities will include original
sound design, implementation of assets in the Unity game engine, organization of
music and sfx assets, and setup and assisting VO and sfx sessions.
Applicants must provide their own computer, and be experienced in at least one
DAW (Nuendo, Logic, Pro Tools, Ableton etc.).
Responsibilities
  • Create original and engaging audio assets
  • Assist in maintaining sound and music libraries
  • Audio engineering in the game engine
  • Troubleshoot technical issues if they arise

Requirements
  • Technical understanding of basic sound engineering techniques (EQ,
  • compression, etc.)
  • Understanding of post-production or game audio workflow
  • Working knowledge of recording software and hardware
  • Creativity and attention to detail
  • The ability to take constructive criticism and revise as necessary
  • Communication skills are essential

Preferred Skills
  • Experience working with the Unity game engine.
  • An understanding and ability to create ambisonic sounds
  • Efficiency in learning new programs and procedures
  • Ability to adapt to changing creative direction.

Benefits
  • Gain hands-on experience with professional audio equipment and software used in the industry
  • Develop technical skills in recording, editing, mixing, and sound production
  • Build a network of industry professionals, mentors, and potential employers
  • Create a portfolio of real-world projects to strengthen your resume
  • Increase your chances of securing future freelance, contract, or full-time audio positions
  • School credit (per academic requirements

Disclaimer: This internship is an unpaid educational opportunity intended to provide training and experience related to Human Resource Management. It is offered for academic credit only in connection with an accredited educational program. Participation is designed for the benefit of the student and does not create an employment relationship. Interns will not displace regular employees and will work under close supervision to support their learning experience. Completion of this internship does not entitle the intern to a job at Dreamscape Learn (or continued employment) at the conclusion of the program.

Apply