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Sound Recording Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Absurd Ventures

Principal Sound Designer

Santa Monica, CA

$140K - $160K/yr

Summary We are looking for a versatile and experienced Principal Sound Designer to join our audio ... engineering and cross-disciplinary teams on large-scale projects. * Strong background in recording ...

Absurd Ventures

Principal Sound Designer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Summary We are looking for a versatile and experienced Principal Sound Designer to join our audio ... engineering and cross-disciplinary teams on large-scale projects. * Strong background in recording ...

Crooked Media

Audio Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$90K/yr

Setting up and testing sound equipment before each recording * Running recording sessions (both ... Technical expertise in sound engineering techniques in studio and live sound environments

New

HYBE AMERICA

Studio Engineer

Santa Monica, CA · On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

Demonstrated experience in vocal recording, editing, and tuning across multiple songs * Degree or formal training in Audio Engineering, Sound Production, or a related field. * Strong communication ...

New

Crooked Media

Audio Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K/yr

Setting up and testing sound equipment before each recording * Running recording sessions (both ... Technical expertise in sound engineering techniques in studio and live sound environments

New

indie

Senior Product Engineer

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

... using sound methodologies to establish test limits and datasheet specifications. You will ... record releases, and safe launch planning and execution. * Coordinate closely with foundries ...

Power Integrations

Staff Device Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

Proven track record of independently designing and taking into volume production of high-voltage ... Sound understanding of semiconductor device physics, especially WBG * Proficient in TCAD simulation ...

Power Integrations

Staff Device Engineer

San Jose, CA

Proven track record of independently designing and taking into volume production of high-voltage ... Sound understanding of semiconductor device physics, especially WBG * Proficient in TCAD simulation ...

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Sound Recording Engineer information

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How much do sound recording engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for sound recording engineer in California is $55.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.62 and $73.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sound recording engineer?

A Sound Recording Engineer is a professional who operates and manages audio recording equipment to capture, mix, and edit sound for music, film, television, or other media. They work closely with producers, musicians, and other audio professionals to ensure high-quality sound recordings. Their responsibilities often include setting up microphones, adjusting audio levels, using digital audio workstations, and applying effects to enhance the final product. Sound Recording Engineers require strong technical skills and a good ear for detail.

What is the difference between Sound Recording Engineer vs Sound Technician?

AspectSound Recording EngineerSound Technician
CredentialsAudio engineering degree or certificationTechnical training or certification in audio equipment
Work EnvironmentRecording studios, post-production facilitiesLive events, broadcast, or studio setups
Employer & IndustryMusic, film, TV, and commercial productionBroadcast stations, live events, and venues
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on recording and mixingFocuses on setup and operation of audio equipment

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, a Sound Recording Engineer primarily focuses on capturing, mixing, and producing high-quality recordings in studio settings. In contrast, a Sound Technician handles the setup, operation, and maintenance of audio equipment during live events or broadcasts. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the audio industry.

Is there a demand for sound recording engineers?

Sound recording engineers are in demand in the music, film, television, and live event industries, especially as audio technology advances. Employment opportunities depend on industry growth, location, and technical skills such as proficiency with digital audio workstations and mixing equipment.

What are some common challenges sound recording engineers face during live recording sessions, and how can they be addressed?

Sound Recording Engineers often encounter challenges such as unpredictable acoustics, equipment malfunctions, and balancing sound levels among multiple performers during live sessions. To address these, engineers typically conduct thorough sound checks, prepare backup equipment, and maintain clear communication with performers and the technical team. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential, as quick adjustments may be needed to ensure optimal sound quality throughout the session.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sound recording engineer?

To thrive as a Sound Recording Engineer, you need a solid understanding of audio engineering principles, acoustics, and music production, often supported by a degree or certification in audio engineering or a related field. Proficiency with digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Pro Tools or Logic Pro, as well as familiarity with mixing consoles and studio equipment, is essential. Strong attention to detail, creative problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with artists and producers. These skills ensure high-quality audio production, efficient studio sessions, and the ability to meet artistic and technical expectations.

Do audio recording engineers make good money?

Audio recording engineers' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the industry they work in. Entry-level engineers typically earn lower wages, while experienced professionals working in major markets or high-profile projects can earn significantly higher incomes, often supplemented by freelance work or additional skills such as mixing and mastering. Overall, the profession offers potential for good earnings but can also be competitive and project-dependent.
What are popular job titles related to Sound Recording Engineer jobs in California? For Sound Recording Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sound Recording Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sound Recording Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sound Recording Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Sound Recording Engineer job openings:
Sound Recording Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sound Recording Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $114,938 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Freelance Recording Engineer / Dialogue Editor

Absurd Ventures

Santa Monica, CA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Freelance Recording Engineer / Dialogue Editor to support AAA video game and linear content production on an as-needed basis. This is an in-person production role embedded within our Santa Monica facility.

The engineer will record, edit, mix, and deliver high-quality audio across multiple active projects, including AAA video games, animated series, advertising campaigns, and marketing content. This role requires technical excellence, calm professionalism with talent and clients in the room, and the ability to manage large volumes of assets across concurrent productions.

This position operates within a fast-paced, high-expectation creative environment where precision, organization, and delivery discipline are critical.

Key Responsibilities

Dialogue Recording & Editorial

  • Record voice talent to broadcast and AAA game standards
  • Engineer client-attended sessions with producers, directors, and executives present
  • Perform detailed dialogue editing, cleanup, conforming, and file prep to technical specifications
  • Ensure tonal consistency across large narrative projects

Mixing & Finishing

  • Mix linear television, advertising, and marketing content
  • Prepare stems and final deliverables to spec for broadcast, streaming, and digital distribution
  • Maintain technical QC standards and meet technical delivery standards

Game Production Support

  • Edit and prepare dialogue assets for interactive implementation
  • Manage large asset counts with strict naming conventions and version control
  • Collaborate with sound design, implementation, and production teams
  • Deliver clean, organized, implementation-ready files

Motion Capture/Sound Stage Recording

  • Record dialogue and production audio on motion capture stages
  • Manage multi-channel wireless microphone workflows
  • Manage RF signal chains in challenging environments
  • Manage gain stages to the highest standards
  • Provide live mixes to relevant stakeholders as needed
  • Coordinate with stage technicians, capture supervisors, and production teams
  • Ensure sync integrity at all times

Operational Discipline

  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously with shifting priorities
  • Maintain impeccable session organization and documentation
  • Hit delivery deadlines without compromising technical quality
  • Troubleshoot technical issues independently and efficiently

Required Experience & Qualifications

  • Minimum 5 years of professional experience as an audio engineer
  • Extensive experience recording with clients and talent in the room
  • Proven expertise editing dialogue at a high narrative and technical level
  • Strong mixing experience for linear television and advertising
  • Deep familiarity with broadcast and streaming delivery specifications
  • Experience recording on motion capture stages
  • Proficiency with industry-standard wireless microphone systems
  • Advanced Pro Tools proficiency and session management discipline
  • Demonstrated ability to manage large asset libraries and complex session workflows
  • Strong communication skills and calm, client-facing professionalism

Technical Competencies

  • Dialogue cleanup, restoration, and precision editing
  • Loudness standards compliance (broadcast and streaming)
  • Stem printing and versioning workflows
  • Multi-mic wireless coordination and RF management
  • Sync workflows for performance capture environments
  • Asset naming, metadata tagging, and delivery packaging

Personal Attributes

  • Meticulous and detail-oriented
  • Composed under pressure
  • Efficient without sacrificing craft
  • Organized across multiple concurrent productions
  • Collaborative and production-minded

Work Environment

  • On-site only in Santa Monica, CA
  • Embedded within a AAA production pipeline
  • Client-attended sessions are frequent
  • High confidentiality environment

Apply