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Sound Engineer Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Sound engineering judgment : A thoughtful, analytical approach to evaluating challenges, comparing alternatives, and recommending practical next steps. * Client-focused collaboration : A service ...

Apply sound engineering principles and be able to communicate complex engineering issues and concepts to technical and non-technical clients and project teams. Services may be provided for existing ...

Geotechnical Project Engineer

Concord, CA ยท On-site

$111K - $172K/yr

Apply sound engineering principles and be able to communicate complex engineering issues and concepts to technical and non-technical clients and project teams. Services may be provided for existing ...

Lead Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$140 - $200/hr

Strong architecture and design skills across systems with sound engineering judgment. * Strong engineering fundamentals (OOD, design patterns, SOLID) and a quality-first mindset (testing/TDD)

New

Strong architecture and design skills across systems with sound engineering judgment. * Strong engineering fundamentals (OOD, design patterns, SOLID) and a quality-first mindset (testing/TDD)

Showing results 41-60

Sound Engineer information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$36.1K

$103.4K

$210K

How much do sound engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for sound engineer in Berkeley, CA is $103,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,200.00 and $138,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a sound engineer do?

A Sound Engineer is responsible for capturing, mixing, and manipulating audio to achieve the desired sound quality for various projects such as music recordings, live events, films, or television. Their tasks can include setting up microphones, operating mixing consoles, editing audio tracks, and ensuring optimal acoustics. Sound Engineers work closely with producers, musicians, and other technical staff to create a polished final product. They play a crucial role in both the technical and creative aspects of audio production.

What are some common challenges sound engineers face when working on live events, and how can they prepare for them?

Sound Engineers working on live events often encounter challenges such as unexpected technical issues, fluctuating acoustics, and last-minute changes from performers or event organizers. To prepare, it's important to conduct thorough sound checks, have backup equipment readily available, and maintain clear communication with the production team. Flexibility and quick problem-solving skills are essential, as live environments can be unpredictable. Building strong relationships with performers and colleagues also helps ensure smooth coordination during high-pressure situations.

Are sound engineers in high demand?

Sound engineers are in steady demand across the entertainment, broadcasting, and live event industries, especially for projects requiring technical expertise with audio equipment and mixing software. Employment growth is expected to be average, with opportunities increasing as audio technology advances and new media platforms emerge.

What is the difference between Sound Engineer vs Audio Technician?

AspectSound EngineerAudio Technician
CredentialsRelevant audio engineering certifications, technical trainingTechnical training, certifications vary
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, live events, film setsBroadcast stations, live events, production facilities
Industry UsageMusic, film, TV, live soundBroadcast, event production, AV support
Job FocusDesigning, mixing, and producing soundSetting up, maintaining, and troubleshooting audio equipment

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, a Sound Engineer primarily focuses on designing, mixing, and producing sound for various media, whereas an Audio Technician handles the setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting of audio systems. The roles often overlap but differ in scope and responsibilities within the audio production process.

What jobs can a sound engineer do?

A sound engineer can work in various roles such as live sound technician, studio recording engineer, broadcast engineer, or post-production sound editor. They operate audio equipment, mix sound, and ensure audio quality for concerts, films, TV, radio, and other media productions, often requiring knowledge of digital audio workstations and sound equipment. Certifications and experience can expand job opportunities in different settings.

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

To thrive as a Sound Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio theory, acoustics, and recording techniques, often supported by a degree or certification in audio engineering or a related field. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Logic Pro, as well as expertise in mixing consoles and microphones, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills set outstanding sound engineers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering high-quality audio experiences and collaborating effectively with artists and production teams.

What is the work of a sound engineer?

A sound engineer is responsible for recording, mixing, and reproducing sound for various media such as music, film, television, and live events. They operate audio equipment, use editing software, and ensure sound quality meets production standards, often working with artists, producers, and directors. Technical skills, knowledge of audio tools, and attention to detail are essential in this role.
What are popular job titles related to Sound Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA? For Sound Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sound Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Sound Engineer jobs in Berkeley, CA are:
What cities near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Sound Engineer jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Sound Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Sound Engineer job openings in Berkeley, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,411 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Senior Lead Mechanical Engineer

PAE CONSULTING ENGINEERS INC

San Francisco, CA โ€ข On-site

$122K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

The Opportunity
PAE is looking for an experienced and highly capable Senior Lead Mechanical Engineer in our San Francisco office to provide advanced technical leadership and guide project teams through all phases of design. In this key role, you will oversee mechanical engineering project delivery, ensuring work is completed on schedule, within budget, and in alignment with quality and industry standards. The Senior Lead Mechanical Engineer will lead the preparation of engineering deliverables including calculations, narratives, drawings, and specifications, while driving coordination efforts between internal teams, external partners, and clients. With expertise in mechanical systems; including; you will apply sound engineering judgment to carry projects from conceptual design through construction administration. This role is responsible for assembling and managing effective project teams, developing detailed workplans, overseeing equipment selection and engineering calculations, and performing site visits and reporting. You will serve as a technical resource and mentor for staff, providing training, guidance, and contributing to continuous improvement through updates to standards, specifications, and processes. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, communication, and delegation skills, along with the ability to cultivate client relationships and uphold the project quality management plan (QMP). This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned mechanical engineer who thrives in a leadership role and is committed to delivering high-performance, well-coordinated engineering solutions.
Who We Are
PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.
What You'll Do
  • Project team leadership and discipline management, responsible for completing the project on time within budget
  • Responsible for the preparation of deliverable documents including narratives, calculations, drawings and specifications
  • Attend client meetings, lead the coordination effort between external and internal project teams
  • Independently evaluate and apply engineering judgment, techniques, and procedures to complete a project from concepts through construction
  • Proficient in mechanical system design, HVAC, Plumbing, Fire Protection and Energy Modeling
  • Assemble effective project teams
  • Develop project workplans, tasks and assignments for the team
  • Thorough understanding of interdisciplinary coordination
  • Advanced understanding of the application of building codes and mechanical industry standards
  • Oversee engineering calculations and equipment selection
  • Perform site visits and issues reports
  • Provide training, guidance and mentorship for staff
  • Provide updates to master specifications and standards, and improve company processes
  • Develop client relationships
  • Oversee the application of the project quality management plan (QMP)
  • Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering for discipline work
  • Relevant professional credential (i.e., PE)
  • Requires a minimum of 2-4 years Mechanical 3, or 5-10 years' related work experience
  • Must have experience in a leadership role
  • Inspire and motivate staff
  • Serve as a technical resource for the company
  • Advanced understanding of mechanical engineering concepts, able to effectively communicate design options
  • Able to assemble and run a team
  • Strong delegation skills
  • Attention to detail and advanced organizational skills
  • Microsoft Office Suite
  • Revit/AutoCAD

What We Offer
  • Hiring Base Salary Range: $122,300-$151,100annual
    • This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay

The base salary is one component of PAE's competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, employees are eligible for annual compensation reviews based on performance and business needs. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:
  • Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
  • Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution
  • Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues
  • Employer paid commuter/parking stipend
  • Cell phone stipend
  • Life insurance and disability benefits
  • Hybrid work schedule
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected day
  • Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation
  • To learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, visit https://www.pae-engineers.com/careers/benefits. This information is provided per the Equal Pay Act

Our commitment to pay equity
PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity - paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification here: Living Future: Just Label Certification.
To find out more visit our website.
What We're Made Of
Founded in 1967, PAE is a leading sustainable engineering and consulting firm on a mission to deliver clean air, energy, and water for all. We specialize in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, building performance analysis, technology design, and lighting design (LUMA). PAE designs some of the nation's highest-performing and most regenerative built environments across the U.S., from Living Buildings to all-electric buildings and beyond. Learn more at pae-engineers.com.
Our portfolio includes over 100 LEED Platinum projects as well as dozens of projects that have either achieved or are pursuing the Living Building Challenge, Passive House, Architecture 2030, Carbon Neutral, Net Zero Energy, and Net Zero Water.
Fine Print
Please note that resumes received from third party recruiters or agencies will not be accepted unless requested directly by PAE Talent Acquisition and with a prior signed fee agreement. If candidates without a previously signed recruiter fee agreement are submitted, PAE reserves the right to engage with and hire those candidate(s) without any obligation financial or otherwise to the recruiter or agency.
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.
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