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Sound Production Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr Director, Sound Design

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$176K - $217K/yr

Develop new approaches to tracking, analyzing, and improving audio production workflows. Ensure all sound content meets or exceeds the PlayStation Studios quality bar. Recording & Audio Capture ...

Sr Director, Sound Design

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$235.40 - $353/hr

Develop new approaches to tracking, analyzing, and improving audio production workflows. * Ensure all sound content meets or exceeds the PlayStation Studios quality bar. Recording & Audio Capture

Studio Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to develop as a professional sound engineer by delivering high-quality audio productions that preserve the unique characteristics of each vocal and instrumental ...

Showing results 21-40

Sound Production information

See California salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do sound production jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for sound production in California is $16.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.71 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is sound production?

Sound production refers to the process of capturing, creating, manipulating, and mixing audio for various media, such as music, film, television, radio, and live events. It involves working with microphones, audio interfaces, mixing consoles, and digital audio workstations to record and edit sounds. Sound producers are responsible for ensuring the quality and clarity of audio, adding effects, and balancing different sound elements to create the desired final product.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in sound production, and why are they important?

To thrive in Sound Production, you need a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, acoustics, and music theory, often supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Ableton Live, as well as proficiency in using microphones, mixers, and audio editing software, is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you collaborate effectively with artists and technical teams. These skills ensure the delivery of high-quality audio experiences that meet artistic and technical standards in various media productions.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in sound production, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in sound production often encounter challenges such as managing tight project deadlines, balancing creative vision with technical limitations, and ensuring clear communication with directors, musicians, and other team members. Adapting quickly to unexpected technical issues, such as equipment malfunctions or acoustical problems, is also common. To address these challenges, successful sound producers stay organized, maintain a flexible problem-solving mindset, invest in continuous learning, and prioritize collaborative communication to ensure the final audio meets project goals.

What is the difference between Sound Production vs Sound Engineering?

AspectSound ProductionSound Engineering
CredentialsOften includes degrees or certifications in audio production, music, or mediaTypically requires degrees or certifications in audio engineering or related fields
Work EnvironmentStudio, live event, or media production settingsRecording studios, live sound venues, broadcast environments
Industry UsageUsed broadly in media, music, film, and television productionFocused on technical aspects of sound recording and mixing

Sound Production involves overseeing the entire process of creating audio content, including planning, recording, and post-production. Sound Engineering focuses more on the technical side, such as operating equipment, mixing, and ensuring sound quality. Both roles often overlap but serve different primary functions within the audio industry.

How much do sound production professionals make?

Sound production professionals' salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but median annual wages typically range from $40,000 to $80,000. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced sound engineers or producers can earn over $100,000, especially with specialized skills and advanced equipment knowledge.

Is sound production a good career?

Sound production is a viable career that involves recording, mixing, and editing audio for various media such as music, film, and television. Success often requires technical skills, familiarity with audio software and equipment, and the ability to work flexible hours in studio or live environments.

What jobs can you get with sound production?

Sound production skills can lead to jobs such as sound engineer, audio technician, music producer, broadcast technician, and studio engineer. These roles typically require knowledge of audio equipment, editing software, and acoustics, and may involve working in recording studios, live events, radio, or television environments.

What cities in California are hiring for Sound Production jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sound Production job openings:

Infographic showing various Sound Production job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,098 per year, or $16.4 per hour.

Adjunct Mass Communications Instructor

Yuba Community College District

Yuba City, CA

$47.07 - $78.42/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Job Title Adjunct Mass Communications Instructor Location Yuba College - Marysville, CA. Job Description

Description of Duties: The person selected will serve under the supervision of the Yuba College Dean of Language Arts, Fine Arts and Visual Performing Arts AND coordinate with the Dean of Media Services, Distributive Education and Library Resources on the use of facilities and college media production needs.

Essential Duties Summary

Teaching courses in Mass Communications, including studio and field video production, electronic movie making, non-linear video and sound editing, script writing, communication theory, photography, news media production, writing and reporting leading toward a certificate or a transfer degree in Mass Communications

Develop Mass Communications internship program including establishment of a local community advisory committee and expansion of the mentorship program for the Mass Communications club

Plan, develop, and implement Mass Communications curriculum, career technical program and student learning outcomes consistent with changes in industry standards, transfer requirements, emerging career fields, new media and convergent technology

Be committed to, and participate in, the shared-governance process

Demonstrate support for college and district diversity plans

Perform other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's in radio, television, film, mass communications, communication, or journalism OR

Bachelor's in any of the above AND Master's in drama/theatre arts, communication studies, business, telecommunications, or English OR

The equivalent

Desired/Preferred Qualifications

Community college or university teaching experience;

Evidence of professional experience in non-linear video and sound production, editing, and broadcast;

Knowledge and experience in both analogue and digital production technologies;

Interest in new media/convergent technologies and techniques;

Sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students;

Experience developing and implementing programs and services associated with community college mass communications or career technical programs;

Working knowledge of advanced forms of technology utilized in providing high-quality media production, classroom instruction, and distance learning;

Excellent oral and written skills

Physical Demands Range/Step Range/Step: Step 1 - Step 7 (Based on degree and teaching experience) Salary Range Salary/Range: $47.07 - $78.42/Lecture Rate Per Hour Benefits Information EEO Statement

As an equal opportunity employer with a diverse staff and student population, the Yuba Community College District is committed to creating an inclusive and effective learning and working environment for all.

Posting Detail Information
Internal vs. External External Posting Number AS140P Open Date Close Date Review Start Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants

A complete application includes the following: Academic Application, Resume, Transcripts, EEO Statement, up to (3) current letters of recommendation and a Cover Letter/Letter of Interest.

To apply for an Equivalency, please download a Equivalency Determination Application, Equivalency Statement, and Procedure from YCCD's website: www.yccd.edu/forms