Acoustics consultant
Acoustics consultants work to reduce unwanted noise in the environment and improve sound quality in buildings, workplaces and equipment.
Also known as: Acoustician, acoustics engineer
- Starter salary£28,000 a year
- Experienced£55,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 42 a week
What you'll do
As an acoustics consultant, you could:
- use computer modelling to design high quality acoustics for buildings, like theatres and music venues
- carry out environmental assessments to make sure noise is within legal limits
- investigate ways to reduce machinery noise and vibration in the workplace
- develop sound equipment and features for recording studios
- design ultrasound tools for use in healthcare, materials testing and welding
- produce reports for project teams and make recommendations
- give specialist advice in legal cases
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or in a laboratory.
You may need to wear protective clothing.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
- to be flexible and open to change
- excellent verbal communication skills
- excellent written communication skills
- active listening skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become a acoustics consultant
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- working towards this role
University
Most employers will expect you to have a degree in a subject like:
- acoustics
- maths
- physics
- engineering
You could do a degree in music technology or environmental science, followed by further training in acoustics or applied acoustics at postgraduate level.
The Institute of Acoustics also offers the Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control , which can help towards gaining membership of the Institute.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
- a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
Work
You may be able to start work as an assistant or trainee acoustics technician and with further training, qualify as an engineer or consultant.
You'll normally need at least 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including two science subjects. A levels or equivalent, like applied science, may be acceptable. Employers may also consider relevant work experience, for example, in non-destructive testing, if you do not have sufficient academic qualifications.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a project leader, managing the design and development of new products. You might also specialise in a particular area, for example architectural, medical or underwater acoustics technology .
You could become a senior acoustics engineering consultant and register for chartered status through the Institute of Acoustics . Chartered status demonstrates your expertise in the industry.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Institute of Acoustics for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the industry.
Guides for this industry
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