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Sound Utility Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sound Transit

Manager-Utility Engineering

Seattle, WA

$107K - $213K/yr

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including ... Provides technical and strategic guidance for utility engineering activities that are necessary to ...

Sound Transit

Manager-Utility Engineering

Seattle, WA · On-site

$107K - $213K/yr

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including ... Provides technical and strategic guidance for utility engineering activities that are necessary to ...

Sound Transit

Manager-Utility Engineering

Seattle, WA

$107K - $213K/yr

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including ... Provides technical and strategic guidance for utility engineering activities that are necessary to ...

Sound Transit

Manager-Utility Engineering

Seattle, WA · On-site

$107K - $213K/yr

Sound Transit also offers a competitive benefits package with a wide range of offerings, including ... Provides technical and strategic guidance for utility engineering activities that are necessary to ...

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Sound Utility information

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$10

$19

$32

How much do sound utility jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for sound utility in the United States is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $22.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Sound Utility vs Sound Technician?

AspectSound UtilitySound Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma or equivalent; some roles may need technical certificationsOften requires a diploma or degree in audio engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, outdoor events, and live production settingsRecording studios, live venues, and broadcast environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed mainly in live event setups, touring, and construction projectsCommon in media production, broadcasting, and entertainment industries

While both roles involve working with audio equipment, Sound Utility focuses on setting up and maintaining sound systems in live and outdoor environments, often requiring physical labor and technical skills. Sound Technicians typically handle the operation and troubleshooting of audio equipment in studio or broadcast settings, emphasizing technical expertise and audio production skills.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

In media, high-paying roles such as senior sound engineers, audio post-production supervisors, and sound designers can earn $150,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills in digital audio workstations, and industry certifications. These positions often require leadership responsibilities, technical expertise, and work in large production environments or with major media companies.

How much do sound technicians get paid?

Sound technicians typically earn an average salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the projects they work on. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those working on large productions can earn higher wages, especially with specialized skills and certifications in audio equipment and mixing.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Sound Utility and how do they contribute to the audio team on set?

A Sound Utility, also known as a Utility Sound Technician, provides essential support to the production sound mixer and boom operator on set. Their daily tasks often include setting up and maintaining audio equipment, running cables, managing wireless microphones, assisting with troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring clear communication among the sound team and other departments. This role is highly collaborative, requiring strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt quickly to changing production needs. By handling these crucial logistical and technical details, Sound Utilities help ensure the audio department operates smoothly, allowing mixers and boom operators to focus on capturing the best possible sound.

What does a utility sound technician do?

A utility sound technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment on film, television, or live production sets. They handle tasks such as installing microphones, managing sound cables, and ensuring clear audio capture, often working closely with the production team and using tools like mixers and wireless systems. The role requires technical knowledge of sound equipment and adherence to safety standards.

How much does a sound operator make?

A sound utility or sound operator typically earns between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of productions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals working on large projects or in major markets can earn higher wages. Skills in audio equipment, signal flow, and certification can influence salary levels.

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

To thrive as a Sound Utility, you need a solid understanding of audio principles, basic electronics, and hands-on experience with sound equipment, often gained through technical training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with industry-standard audio gear, wireless microphone systems, and audio troubleshooting tools is essential. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication help you anticipate and resolve issues on set. These skills ensure seamless audio operations, support for the sound team, and high-quality production results.

What are sound utility technicians?

Sound utility technicians, often called 'sound utilities' or 'utility sound', are vital members of a film or television production's sound department. They support both the production sound mixer and boom operator by handling tasks such as setting up audio equipment, managing cables, placing wireless microphones, and troubleshooting technical issues on set. Their work ensures that audio recording runs smoothly and helps maintain clear communication within the sound team. This role requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt quickly to changing on-set needs.
More about Sound Utility jobs
What cities are hiring for Sound Utility jobs? Cities with the most Sound Utility job openings:
What states have the most Sound Utility jobs? States with the most job openings for Sound Utility jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Sound Utility jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sound Utility jobs are:
Sound Utility jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sound Utility job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,029 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Sound Utility Trainee - NJ

Reel Works

Fort Monmouth, NJ • On-site

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

ABOUT MediaMKRS


MediaMKRS a Reel Works program educates and empowers individuals from diverse backgrounds to succeed in the media industry. Our program offers comprehensive training, hands-on work experiences, networking opportunities, and unparalleled access to industry professionals needed for a thriving career.


APPLICATION PROCESS


The first step in the application process is to attend the info session.
The info session covers important program information, and program dates, overviews the application process, and features a Q&A session with panelists. Applications that do not meet this requirement will not be considered. Please email
recruitment@mediamkrs.org
to learn more.


The round 1 application is due Sunday, July 26th, 2026 at 11:59 pm ET. Applications timestamped after the aforementioned date and time, will not be accepted.


ABOUT THE TRAINING


In partnership with the I.A.T.S.E. Local 52 Union, Reel Works is hosting an intensive training program to prepare New Jerseyans with the essential skills needed to work successfully on set as Utility Sound Technicians!


Utility Sound Technicians play a vital role in any production by assisting the sound mixer and boom operators. Their responsibilities include setting up and maintaining audio equipment, ensuring a quiet environment during takes, and addressing any audio issues that may arise.


This course will cover how to:

  • Understand core sound department roles and on-set responsibilities.
  • Operating and maintaining essential audio equipment.
  • Practicing boom mic techniques and on-set positioning.
  • Wiring talent safely and effectively for clean audio capture.
  • Recording, mixing, and managing audio playback on set.


ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST:

    • Be 18+ years old
    • Eligible to work in the US
    • A NJ State Resident within a 70-mile radius of Fort Monmouth (2 hours max).
    • Be familiar with audio hardware, including various microphone types.
    • Have entry-level experience with live event production or on-set production
    • Strong organizational skills and problem-solving ability
    • Attention to detail


***Location Note:This training takes placeIN PERSONin NJ ***


Reel Works is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating and developing an inclusive staff team. BIPOC, people with intersecting identities - LGBTQIA+, women and non-binary people, people living with disabilities and others with lived experience being part of marginalized communities are strongly encouraged to apply.


To comply with government Equal Employment Opportunity and/or Affirmative Action reporting regulations,the application for all positions at Reel Works includes the option to respond to questions regarding gender, ethnicity, disability, and veteran status(learn more here).This information will not be used as selection criteria in connection with any employment decisions, and will be used solely as permitted by state and federal law. Self-reporting of personal identifiers is voluntary. While we appreciate your cooperation as we aim to ensure we attract a diverse candidate pool, we respect your right to decide whether to share your personally identifiable information. If you'd rather not share this information, feel free to select "Prefer Not to Disclose".


Reel Works Privacy Policy

By submitting this application you agree to the terms of our privacy policy, which you can view
here.

Reel Works and MediaMKRS are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy. This policy explains when and why we collect personal information on candidates, and how we keep it secure.

Apply