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Sound Recording Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cross-stack debugging - a track record of operating across the stack and untangling complex systems. * Engineering judgment - sound instincts on trade-offs, not just technical breadth. Nice to have ...

Cross-stack debugging - a track record of operating across the stack and untangling complex systems. * Engineering judgment - sound instincts on trade-offs, not just technical breadth. Nice to have ...

... sound architecture and design tradeโ€‘offs. * Strong analytical and problemโ€‘solving skills, with a proven track record of resolving complex systemโ€‘level issues. * Demonstrated technical ...

New

Senior Structures Engineer

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$114K - $157K/yr

Conduct risk assessments and develop sound mitigation strategies. What You Bring * Bachelor ... Proven track record of developing and launching successful mechanical designs. * Excellent ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Track record providing high-quality technical design deliverables, meeting scopes, schedules, and ... Analytical - Uses sound data, and procedures, and follows all laws, rules, and regulations but is a ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Irvine, CA ยท On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Track record providing high-quality technical design deliverables, meeting scopes, schedules, and ... Analytical - Uses sound data, and procedures, and follows all laws, rules, and regulations but is a ...

Showing results 41-60

Sound Recording Engineer information

See California salary details

$12

$55

$79

How much do sound recording engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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:
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.

Senior Structural Engineer

Schnabel Engineering

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$170K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Schnabel is an employee-owned, professional engineering and consulting firm that focuses on solving problems related to the earth and environment through specialization in geotechnical, geostructural, tunnel, and dam engineering. Schnabel's high standards for quality, business ethics, and concern for the communities in which we live are a vital part of who we are. Schnabel is an ENR Top 500 Design Firm with 700+ employees in 32 offices throughout the United States.
Recognized by CE News as one of the Best Engineering Firms to Work for, Schnabel provides employees with a competitive benefits package including maternity leave, tuition reimbursement for continuing education, health, dental, life and disability insurance and a wellness program. As an employee-owned company, through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, Schnabel employees directly benefit from the success of our growing firm.
Benefit options include:
  • Medical insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Employee life & ADD insurance (100% company-paid)
  • Short-term disability (100% company-paid)
  • Long-term disability
  • Supplemental life insurance
  • 401(k) and profit-sharing plan
  • Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP)
  • Bonus program
  • Paid time off
  • 9 Paid Holidays
  • Wellness program
  • Professional development and tuition reimbursement

Job Description:
Our Sacramento office is seeking a Senior Engineer (equivalent to a Senior Associate level) Structural Engineer with specialized expertise in dam design and hydraulic structures. We are looking for a highly motivated, technically proficient engineer to perform structural engineering analysis and design for dams, hydraulic structures, and heavy civil infrastructure, while helping lead and grow our structural engineering team.
Job Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will perform and lead structural engineering tasks including:
  • Perform engineering activities throughout all phases of the project lifecycle, including investigation, evaluation, analysis, design, and engineering services during construction.
  • Perform structural analyses and prepare detailed design calculations for dams, hydraulic structures, and related heavy civil infrastructure.
  • Perform quality control reviews of work prepared by other team members.
  • Prepare and review construction drawings, technical specifications, design memoranda, and engineering reports.
  • Develop, guide, and mentor junior structural engineers in the preparation of structural analyses and finite element models using programs such as SAP2000, LS-DYNA, ABAQUS, and ANSYS.
  • Apply applicable codes, standards, and design criteria for loads, analysis procedures, and structural requirements, including ASCE 7, ACI 318, ACI 350, the Steel Construction Manual, IBC, and other relevant guidance.
  • Prepare responses to contractor submittals, requests for information, and technical questions during construction.
  • Collaborate effectively with owners, contractors, architects, and multidisciplinary design teams.
  • Travel as needed to project sites, client meetings, and other Schnabel offices.
  • Work collaboratively within the Sacramento office and across Schnabel's broader office network to support project delivery and balance workload among available resources.

Required Skills/Experience:
  • Master's degree or higher in Civil Engineering, with an emphasis in structural engineering, from an ABET-accredited program.
  • 20+ years of structural engineering experience, with demonstrated proficiency in concrete and steel design for dams, hydraulic structures, and heavy civil structures.
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks and multidisciplinary projects throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Licensed Professional Engineer in California.
  • Experience with computer-aided structural analysis and finite element modeling programs, including SAP2000, LS-DYNA, ABAQUS, ANSYS, or similar tools.
  • Experience preparing and reviewing construction drawings, technical specifications, calculations, and engineering deliverables.
  • Experience working directly with owners and contractors during project design and construction phases.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Strong work ethic, sound engineering judgment, and a commitment to performing at a high professional level.

Preferred Skills/Experience:
  • Licensed Structural Engineer in California, or willingness and ability to pursue and obtain an SE license.
  • Prior working experience on projects with FERC and DSOD regulatory authority.
  • Consulting engineering experience, particularly on dam, hydraulic structure, or heavy civil infrastructure projects.

Other Requirements:
  • Ability to pass a background check which may include criminal history, motor vehicle record and credit check
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening

The compensation range for this position is between $170,000 to $200,000. Compensation for this position may vary based on geographic location and other factors. We remain committed to providing competitive and equitable compensation to all employees, regardless of their location.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.