A studio engineer has a great ear for sound.
A studio engineer produces the sounds of movies, television, radio, CDs and more. Much of a studio engineer's job relies on technology, specifically with electronics and computers. According to the Occupational Information Network (O*Net), sound engineering technicians may also be known as sound engineering technicians.
Roles
A studio engineer sets up, operates and repairs machinery and equipment; connects cables and wires; works the mixing board; mixes music, sound effects and voices to achieve the desired result; has a keen ear to work out any bugs or irregularities; regulates the strength of the signal; and logs outgoing signals.
Environment & Hours
Studio engineers work indoors, typically inside studios. Depending on the employer, studio engineers may work 40-hour work weeks and occasional overtime, especially when deadlines approach. Technicians who work in the motion picture business may work a tight schedule and long hours to meet production deadlines.
Education
Studio engineers may receive formal training at a technical school, community college or college in electronics or computer networking. On-the-job training is offered in small studios; whereas bigger studios hire those with formal education and/or experience. If a studio engineer is interested in working within the motion picture industry, training as an apprentice can help gain valuable experience.
Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2008 Occupational Employment Statistics, the national average hourly rate for a sound engineering technician was $26 and the national average salary was $53,940. The industries that employed the highest number of sound engineer technicians was the motion picture and video industries with an average salary of $60,470; sound recording industries--$55,390; radio and television broadcasting--$53,270; performing arts companies--$44,140; and cable and other subscription programming--$57,800.
Outlook
According to the BLS National Employment Matrix, employment for sound engineering technicians is expected to grow slower than average at a rate of 6 percent through 2018. Advanced technology will increase studio engineer's productivity which may also decrease employment growth.
