What is audio engineering? Audio and sound engineering technicians set up and operate the equipment that is used in music, television broadcasts and other recordings. During a recording or live performance, audio engineering technicians ensure that the quality and sound of the audio production is good. In addition to this, audio and sound engineering technicians are required to make necessary repairs should technical problems arise. Whilst there are no specific requirements to become an audio engineer technician, it may be necessary to train at the postsecondary level. We’ve put together a step by step guide of how to pursue this as a career.
Enroll in a Training Program
Most sound engineering technicians will enter the field by completing a training program, which can last for up to a year. Typically, these programs will result in a diploma or other certificate on completion. There are also a number of degree programs available in audio production, and earning a college degree can make you more desirable to employers when searching for audio and sound engineering positions.
Internships
In order to improve your chances of landing a good career as an audio engineering technician, you may find that it’s wise to enroll in an internship or other form of work experience when completing your college course or training program. If you are taking a degree course in sound engineering or audio production, it is likely that your school will be able to recommend internships and placements which you will be able to enroll on. Doing so will provide you with relevant work experience that will help you find a job once you have gained certification.
Obtaining Employment
Career opportunities as an audio engineering technician are often available within production houses, arenas, and audio and visual departments. Your responsibilities will include using computers and microphones in order to capture and record sounds, equalize and synchronize recorded sound, and mix and control the tone or volume of a variety of musical performers. You may be given additional duties, which include keeping logs for recording sessions, maintaining sound equipment, testing and setting up sound and recording equipment, meeting with producers and performers, replicating sound recordings and reporting any faulty equipment or equipment issues.
Certification for Career Advancement
Although gaining professional certification is optional and not required in order to work as an audio engineering technician, it can be of great benefit to those wanting to advance their career even further. Once you have at least five years of experience working as an audio engineering technician, you will qualify to sit the exam to be a Certified Audio Engineer. You may also be required to have spent time in related educational programs in order to qualify to take the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to theory, practices, safety and problems. Certification is valid for a period of five years from the date you pass the exam.
Are you a certified sound engineering technician? If you’d like to tell us more about your job, we’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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