Live sound engineer
Live sound engineers control the sound at events like theatre performances, music concerts and festivals.
Also known as: Audio engineer
- Starter salary£25,000 a year
- Experienced£50,000 a year
- Typical hours39 to 41 a week
What you'll do
As a live sound engineer, you could:
- discuss the production sound needs with the director or sound designer
- identify places in the script where any sound effects, music and changes in sound level are needed
- pre-record any sound effects and music
- position and rig up microphones
- complete sound checks before a performance
- operate the sound desk during shows
- follow a sound plan (known as a 'plot') and cues from the deputy stage manager
- look after and repair equipment
- unload, set up, dismantle and load equipment at each venue when on tour
Working environment
You could work in a theatre, at events or at a recording studio.
Your working environment may be at height, hot, outdoors some of the time and you may spend nights away from home.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- the ability to work well with others
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- persistence and determination
- customer service skills
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
How to become a live sound engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- a specialist course run by a drama school
University
You can do a foundation degree, higher national diploma, or degree in a related subject like:
- sound engineering
- sound engineering and music production
- sound, light and live event engineering
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
College
Some sound engineers start by taking a college course to develop their skills before looking for work.
Related subjects include:
- music technology
- sound technology
- technical theatre: sound, light and stage
- T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths for a T Level
Apprenticeship
You could apply for an apprenticeship to get into this role, for example:
- Creative Industries Production Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
- Audio Visual Technician Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
These take around 2 years to complete.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Volunteering
You can get practical experience of using sound equipment to help your career prospects. This may be part of a course or you can try:
- helping backstage in a theatre
- being a roadie for a band
- rigging a sound system in amateur or student theatre, or for local bands
- working for a sound equipment manufacturer or hire company
Other routes
Several drama schools offer degrees and diplomas in technical theatre accredited by the Federation of Drama Schools . Some of these courses include lighting and stage management as well as sound.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could progress to chief sound engineer in a theatre, become a sound designer, or set up your own sound services company.
Professional and industry bodies
You can join The Institute of Sound, Communications and Visual Engineers for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.
Guides for this industry
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- Job roleStudio sound engineer
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