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Sound Technician

Also known as Audio Engineer and Sound Engineer.

Sound technicians operate technical equipment to amplify, enhance, record, mix or reproduce sound in support of performing arts.

They may also assemble and maintain sound equipment.

Sound technicians may work in radio, television and recording studios, or in theatres and other live performance venues.

They may also work in wholesale and retail businesses trading in sound reproduction, recording and public address (PA) equipment.

In some cases, they specialise in operating or maintaining sound equipment.

Sound technicians may be required to work shifts that involve long hours in the evenings and on weekends.

They often work under difficult conditions and, when working at outdoor concerts, in variable weather.

TASKS

Sound technicians may perform the following tasks:

determine sound requirements
set up, test and operate equipment in accordance with the acoustics of the area and select, place and adjust microphones
monitor audio signals to detect quality deviations or malfunctions
service, maintain and repair amplifiers, tuners, receivers, digital audio systems, turntables and pick-ups, reel-to-reel and cassette- type tape recorders and speaker systems
build and install sound systems
dub and edit tapes or compact discs
operate controls to maintain correct sound levels
talk with performers and instruct them on microphone use
introduce pre-recorded special effects required by scripts

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

a good ear for detail in all areas of sound
aptitude for working with computers and audio equipment
flexible attitude toward working hours and conditions
able to work under pressure

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

You can work as a sound technician without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications.

You may like to consider a VOC qualification in technical production, sound production, music or live production and services. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a sound technician through a traineeship in Live Production and Services, Live Production and Technical Services, Technical Production or Sound Production.

Entry requirements may vary, but employers generally require Year 10.

Additional Information

Once you are employed, you may be able to develop, and have recognised, additional skills under the Live Performance and Entertainment or Music Training Packages that will expand your career opportunities within these industries.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Sound technicians are employed by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), commercial radio and television broadcasting stations, film production companies, theatre and live entertainment companies and venues, sound recording studios, and PA equipment and audio reproduction businesses. Some sound technicians work on a freelance basis and may establish their own studios.

This is a very competitive occupation and people sometimes need to travel interstate to find work.