Occupation AtlasSound Engineering Technicians
O*NET · 27-4014.00
Sound Engineering Technicians
Assemble and operate equipment to record, synchronize, mix, edit, or reproduce sound, including music, voices, or sound effects, for theater, video, film, television, podcasts, sporting events, and other productions.
49 more
Audio Technician (Audio Tech) · Audio Video Engineer · Disc Recordist · Dub Room Engineer · Film Recordist · Film Sound Coordinator · Film Sound Engineer · Mastering Engineer · Mechanic Sound Tech · Mechanic Sound Technician (Mechanic Sound Tech) · Mechanical Sound Tech · Mechanical Sound Technician (Mechanical Sound Tech) · Mixer · Mixing Engineer · Mixing Operator · Mixing Tech · Mixing Technician (Mixing Tech) · Music Engineer · Music Producer · Musical Engineer · PA System Installer · PA System Mechanic · PA Tech · Play Back Operator · Producer · Public Address System Installer (PA System Installer) · Public Address System Mechanic (PA System Mechanic) · Public Address Technician (PA Tech) · Recording Engineer · Recordist · Rerecording Mixer · Sound Cutter · Sound Designer · Sound Editor · Sound Effects Tech · Sound Effects Technician (Sound Effects Tech) · Sound Engineer · Sound Engineering Tech · Sound Engineering Technician (Sound Engineering Tech) · Sound Equipment Mechanic · Sound Mixer · Sound Printer · Sound Recording Tech · Sound Recording Technician (Sound Recording Tech) · Sound Recordist · Sound Tech · Sound Technician (Sound Tech) · Theater Tech · Theater Technician (Theater Tech)
Compare with another occupationCompare with Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
Job Zone
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Zone 3: Medium Preparation Needed
Medium preparation. Vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or an associate degree, with one to two years of training that combines experience and informal instruction.
Job Zone is O*NET's rating of how much education, experience and training an occupation typically needs — a property of the work, not of anyone doing it.
Occupational interest profile
RACRealistic · Artistic · Conventional — the three strongest interests, in order
- R Realistic5.14
- A Artistic4.45
- C Conventional4.22
- I Investigative2.68
- E Enterprising2.16
- S Social1.69
RIASEC (Holland) interests on O*NET's 0–7 scale: what the work draws on, not what any individual prefers. Hover a row for what each dimension means.
Education and experience
The education level respondents say the job requires, and the most common answer for experience and training.
- Related work experience
- Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years (60%)
- On-site or in-plant training
- Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year (24%)
- On-the-job training
- Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months (20%)
Typically associated skills
All 35 O*NET skills, most important first. Importance (1–5) says how much a skill matters here; level (0–7) says how much of it the work calls for, with O*NET's example of a nearby level. Neither is a proficiency rating of a person.
- Active ListeningbasicImportance 3.8Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Answer inquiries regarding credit references
- SpeakingbasicImportance 3.6Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Interview applicants to obtain personal and work history
- Critical ThinkingbasicImportance 3.5Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Evaluate customer complaints and determine appropriate responses
- Complex Problem SolvingImportance 3.4Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Redesign a floor layout to take advantage of new manufacturing techniques
- Reading ComprehensionbasicImportance 3.3Level 3.6Level 4 looks like: Understand an email from management describing new personnel policies
- Operation and ControlImportance 3.3Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Adjust the speed of assembly line equipment based on the product being assembled
- Operations MonitoringImportance 3.3Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Monitor machine functions on an automated production line
- Judgment and Decision MakingImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Decide how scheduling a break will affect work flow
- MonitoringbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Monitor a meeting and revise the agenda to ensure important topics are discussed
- Active LearningbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Determine the impact of new menu changes on a restaurant's purchasing requirements
- CoordinationImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Work with others to put a new roof on a house
- Service OrientationImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Make flight reservations for customers using an online booking site
Show the other 23
- Systems AnalysisImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Determine how a new piece of equipment will affect production rates
- Time ManagementImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Keep a monthly calendar of appointments
- WritingbasicImportance 3.1Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Write down a guest's order at a restaurant
- Systems EvaluationImportance 3.0Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Identify the reasons why a client might be unhappy with a product
- Social PerceptivenessImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Notice that customers are angry because they have been waiting too long
- PersuasionImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Solicit donations for a charity
- Quality Control AnalysisImportance 2.9Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Inspect a draft email for errors (e.g., grammar, punctuation)
- TroubleshootingImportance 2.9Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Identify the source of a leak by looking under a machine
- Equipment MaintenanceImportance 2.8Level 2.8Level 2 looks like: Add oil to an engine as indicated by a warning light
- InstructingImportance 2.6Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Instruct a new employee in the use of a timekeeping system
- NegotiationImportance 2.6Level 2.6Level 2 looks like: Present justification to a manager for altering a work schedule
- Equipment SelectionImportance 2.5Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Select a tool to adjust a loose part on a bicycle
- Learning StrategiesbasicImportance 2.5Level 2.5Level 2 looks like: Learn a different method of completing a task from a coworker
- RepairingImportance 2.5Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Tighten a screw to get a door to close properly
- Management of Personnel ResourcesImportance 2.1Level 2.4Level 2 looks like: Encourage a coworker who is having difficulty finishing a project
- Technology DesignImportance 2.1Level 1.8Level 2 looks like: Adjust exercise equipment for use by a customer
- MathematicsbasicImportance 2.0Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Count the amount of change to be given to a customer
- Management of Material ResourcesImportance 2.0Level 1.8Level 2 looks like: Reserve a room for a management meeting
- Management of Financial ResourcesImportance 1.8Level 0.9
- ProgrammingImportance 1.8Level 0.9
- SciencebasicImportance 1.6Level 0.8
- InstallationImportance 1.5Level 0.6
- Operations AnalysisImportance 1.3Level —
Tasks
13 core · 1 supplementalWhat people in this occupation do, as O*NET records it, core tasks first by importance (1–5).
- Confer with producers, performers, and others to determine and achieve the desired sound for a production, such as a musical recording or a film.Importance 4.8
- Regulate volume level and sound quality during recording sessions, using control consoles.Importance 4.8
- Record speech, music, and other sounds on recording media, using recording equipment.Importance 4.6
- Separate instruments, vocals, and other sounds, and combine sounds during the mixing or postproduction stage.Importance 4.6
- Set up, test, and adjust recording equipment for recording sessions and live performances.Importance 4.6
- Prepare for recording sessions by performing such activities as selecting and setting up microphones.Importance 4.5
- Report equipment problems and ensure that required repairs are made.Importance 4.5
- Mix and edit voices, music, and taped sound effects for live performances and for prerecorded events, using sound mixing boards.Importance 4.4
- Keep logs of recordings.Importance 4.2
- Synchronize and equalize prerecorded dialogue, music, and sound effects with visual action of motion pictures or television productions, using control consoles.Importance 3.9
- Tear down equipment after event completion.Importance 3.9
- Reproduce and duplicate sound recordings from original recording media, using sound editing and duplication equipment.Importance 3.8
Show the other 2
- Convert video and audio recordings into digital formats for editing or archiving.Importance 3.6
- Create musical instrument digital interface programs for music projects, commercials, or film postproduction.Importance 3.1
Knowledge
Bodies of knowledge the work draws on.
- Computers and ElectronicsImportance 4.6Level 5.3Level 4 looks like: Use a computer to format a document
- Customer and Personal ServiceImportance 3.9Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Be responsible for 10 children at daycare
- Fine ArtsImportance 3.8Level 4.4Level 4 looks like: Play a minor part in a local theater play
- Engineering and TechnologyImportance 3.7Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Design a custom office chair
- English LanguageImportance 3.7Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Edit an article for a news website
- Communications and MediaImportance 3.5Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Host a music radio show
- Production and ProcessingImportance 3.3Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Supervise an appliance assembly line
- Administration and ManagementImportance 2.8Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Monitor progress of a project to ensure timely completion
Show all 33
- PsychologyImportance 2.7Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Understand the impact of alcohol on human responses
- Sales and MarketingImportance 2.7Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Introduce clients to a new line of products
- TelecommunicationsImportance 2.6Level 2.3Level 1 looks like: Send an email
- Education and TrainingImportance 2.5Level 2.9
- MechanicalImportance 2.5Level 2.7
- DesignImportance 2.3Level 2.2Level 1 looks like: Draw a straight line 4 3/16 inches long
- MathematicsImportance 2.3Level 2.7
- PhysicsImportance 2.1Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Use a crowbar to pry open a box
- AdministrativeImportance 2.0Level 2.2Level 1 looks like: Direct phone calls to the appropriate staff member
- Economics and AccountingImportance 2.0Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Answer billing questions from credit card customers
- Personnel and Human ResourcesImportance 2.0Level 1.9Level 1 looks like: Fill out a medical claim form
- Sociology and AnthropologyImportance 1.8Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Identify two cultures in a story as being different
- Foreign LanguageImportance 1.7Level 1.5Level 1 looks like: Say "please" and "thank you" in a foreign language
- Public Safety and SecurityImportance 1.7Level 1.2Level 1 looks like: Use a seatbelt
- Philosophy and TheologyImportance 1.6Level 1.2Level 1 looks like: Watch a TV show on family values
- Therapy and CounselingImportance 1.6Level 1.1Level 1 looks like: Put ice on a sprained ankle
- Building and ConstructionImportance 1.5Level 1.7Level 1 looks like: Choose the proper type of wood for adding a deck onto a house
- Law and GovernmentImportance 1.5Level 0.9Level 1 looks like: Describe the length of a U.S. presidential term
- TransportationImportance 1.5Level 1.0Level 1 looks like: Ride a train to work
- GeographyImportance 1.3Level —
- History and ArcheologyImportance 1.3Level 1.0Level 1 looks like: Take a class in US history
- ChemistryImportance 1.2Level —
- Medicine and DentistryImportance 1.2Level —
- BiologyImportance 1.1Level —
- Food ProductionImportance 1.1Level —
Abilities
Enduring capacities the work calls for.
- Hearing SensitivityImportance 4.1Level 4.3Level 4 looks like: Diagnose what's wrong with a car engine from its sound
- Auditory AttentionImportance 4.0Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Listen for your flight announcement at a busy airport
- Near VisionImportance 4.0Level 3.6
- Oral ComprehensionImportance 4.0Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Understand a coach's oral instructions for a sport
- Oral ExpressionImportance 4.0Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Give instructions to a lost motorist
- Fluency of IdeasImportance 3.5Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Think of as many ideas as possible for the name of a new company
- Selective AttentionImportance 3.5Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Watch security monitors for intruders throughout the night shift
- Deductive ReasoningImportance 3.4Level 3.5Level 2 looks like: Know that a stalled car can coast downhill
Show all 52
- OriginalityImportance 3.4Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Redesign job tasks to be interesting for employees
- Written ComprehensionImportance 3.4Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Understand an apartment lease
- Category FlexibilityImportance 3.3Level 3.5Level 3 looks like: Classify flowers according to size, color, and smell
- Flexibility of ClosureImportance 3.3Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Look for a golf ball in tall grass
- Speech ClarityImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Make stadium-wide announcements during a sporting event
- Speed of ClosureImportance 3.3Level 3.1Level 3 looks like: Recognize a song after hearing only the first few notes
- Written ExpressionImportance 3.3Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Write a job recommendation for a subordinate
- Control PrecisionImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Adjust farm tractor controls
- Inductive ReasoningImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Determine the prime suspect based on crime scene evidence
- Information OrderingImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 2 looks like: Follow the correct steps to make change
- Perceptual SpeedImportance 3.1Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Read five pressure indicators in 10 seconds to make sure each is within safe limits
- Problem SensitivityImportance 3.1Level 3.3Level 4 looks like: Notice from a subtle difference in a client's mood that something is bothering them
- Arm-Hand SteadinessImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Light a candle
- Far VisionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Read a roadside billboard
- Finger DexterityImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Put coins in a parking meter
- Manual DexterityImportance 3.0Level 2.9
- Speech RecognitionImportance 3.0Level 3.0Level 2 looks like: Recognize the voice of a coworker
- Time SharingImportance 2.9Level 2.8Level 3 looks like: Watch street signs while driving at 30 miles an hour
- VisualizationImportance 2.8Level 2.9Level 2 looks like: Imagine how to place paper in a printer so that the letterhead comes out on top
- Visual Color DiscriminationImportance 2.5Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Separate laundry into colors and whites
- MemorizationImportance 2.4Level 2.4Level 1 looks like: Remember the number on your bus to be sure you get back on the right one
- Mathematical ReasoningImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 1 looks like: Determine how much 20 oranges will cost when they are priced at 5 for 4 dollars
- Multilimb CoordinationImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 2 looks like: Row a boat
- Number FacilityImportance 2.1Level 2.1Level 3 looks like: Calculate a discounted price
- Reaction TimeImportance 2.1Level 1.5Level 2 looks like: Start to slow down the car when a traffic light turns yellow
- Sound LocalizationImportance 2.1Level 1.5Level 2 looks like: Listen to a sound system to determine which speaker is working
- Static StrengthImportance 2.1Level 1.8Level 1 looks like: Push an empty shopping cart
- Trunk StrengthImportance 2.1Level 1.4Level 2 looks like: Sit up in an office chair
- Wrist-Finger SpeedImportance 2.1Level 2.0Level 2 looks like: Use a screwdriver to twist in a screw
- Depth PerceptionImportance 2.0Level 1.4Level 2 looks like: Merge a car into traffic on a city street
- Extent FlexibilityImportance 1.9Level 1.3Level 2 looks like: Reach to adjust the radio in a car
- Response OrientationImportance 1.9Level 1.1Level 2 looks like: When a doorbell and phone ring at the same time, quickly select which to answer first
- Dynamic StrengthImportance 1.6Level 0.6
- Rate ControlImportance 1.6Level 0.8Level 1 looks like: Ride a bicycle alongside a jogger
- Spatial OrientationImportance 1.4Level —
- Explosive StrengthImportance 1.3Level —
- Dynamic FlexibilityImportance 1.0Level —
- Glare SensitivityImportance 1.0Level —
- Gross Body CoordinationImportance 1.0Level —
- Gross Body EquilibriumImportance 1.0Level —
- Night VisionImportance 1.0Level —
- Peripheral VisionImportance 1.0Level —
- Speed of Limb MovementImportance 1.0Level —
- StaminaImportance 1.0Level —
Work activities
Kinds of activity the work is made of.
- Working with ComputersImportance 4.9Level 5.0Level 4 looks like: Write software for keeping track of parts in inventory
- Thinking CreativelyImportance 4.8Level 5.4Level 4 looks like: Adapt popular music for a high school marching band
- Making Decisions and Solving ProblemsImportance 4.5Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Select the location for a major retail store
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsImportance 4.4Level 5.2Level 4 looks like: Maintain good working relationships with almost all coworkers and clients
- Updating and Using Relevant KnowledgeImportance 4.3Level 5.4Level 4 looks like: Keep current on changes in maintenance procedures for repairing sports cars
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesImportance 4.2Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Report the results of a sales meeting to a supervisor
- Documenting/Recording InformationImportance 4.0Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Document the results of a crime scene investigation
- Getting InformationImportance 4.0Level 4.1Level 4 looks like: Review a budget
Show all 41
- Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkImportance 3.9Level 4.6Level 4 looks like: Plan and adjust a personal to-do list according to changing demands
- Monitoring Processes, Materials, or SurroundingsImportance 3.7Level 4.2Level 4 looks like: Test electrical circuits
- Scheduling Work and ActivitiesImportance 3.7Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Prepare the work schedule for salesclerks in a large retail store
- Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or PeopleImportance 3.6Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Determine the value of property lost in a fire
- Processing InformationImportance 3.5Level 3.6Level 4 looks like: Calculate the adjustments for insurance claims
- Resolving Conflicts and Negotiating with OthersImportance 3.4Level 4.0Level 4 looks like: Get two subordinates to agree about vacation schedules
- Communicating with People Outside the OrganizationImportance 3.3Level 3.8Level 4 looks like: Present information to potential clients about available services
- Controlling Machines and ProcessesImportance 3.3Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Operate a drilling rig
- Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or MaterialsImportance 3.3Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Inspect equipment in a chemical processing plant
- Interpreting the Meaning of Information for OthersImportance 3.3Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Interpret how foreign tax laws apply to U.S. exports
- Repairing and Maintaining Electronic EquipmentImportance 3.3Level 3.9Level 4 looks like: Make repairs by removing and replacing circuit boards
- Coordinating the Work and Activities of OthersImportance 3.2Level 3.6Level 4 looks like: Organize the cleanup crew after a major sporting event
- Guiding, Directing, and Motivating SubordinatesImportance 3.2Level 2.9
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and EventsImportance 3.2Level 2.9
- Developing Objectives and StrategiesImportance 3.1Level 3.5Level 4 looks like: Develop the plan to complete the merger of two organizations over a 3-year period
- Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsImportance 3.0Level 2.9
- Analyzing Data or InformationImportance 2.9Level 2.9
- Coaching and Developing OthersImportance 2.9Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Provide on-the-job training for administrative workers
- Developing and Building TeamsImportance 2.9Level 2.9
- Providing Consultation and Advice to OthersImportance 2.9Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Recommend a new software package to increase operational efficiency
- Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or InformationImportance 2.8Level 2.7
- Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical EquipmentImportance 2.8Level 3.1Level 4 looks like: Change the oil on a tractor
- Selling or Influencing OthersImportance 2.8Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Make a sales pitch to convince others to buy a product
- Training and Teaching OthersImportance 2.8Level 3.4Level 4 looks like: Teach a social sciences course to high school students
- Assisting and Caring for OthersImportance 2.7Level 2.8
- Handling and Moving ObjectsImportance 2.6Level 3.2Level 4 looks like: Arrange books in a library
- Monitoring and Controlling ResourcesImportance 2.6Level 2.5Level 1 looks like: Work as a server responsible for keeping track of utensils
- Performing for or Working Directly with the PublicImportance 2.6Level 2.6
- Performing Administrative ActivitiesImportance 2.5Level 3.0Level 4 looks like: Complete tax forms for a small business
- Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and EquipmentImportance 2.3Level 2.2Level 1 looks like: Specify the lighting for a work area
- Performing General Physical ActivitiesImportance 2.3Level 2.6
- Staffing Organizational UnitsImportance 1.8Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Work in a position that has minimal staffing requirements
- Operating Vehicles, Mechanized Devices, or EquipmentImportance 1.7Level 1.4Level 1 looks like: Drive a car
Work context
The conditions most characteristic of the work, on O*NET's 1–5 context scale.
Technology
32 toolsSoftware used in this work. In demand: among the tools job postings for this occupation name most. Hot: often named in job postings across the economy.
Hot (17)
- Adobe Acrobat
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Apple macOS
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Git
- Linux
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Java
- UNIX
Other tools (15)
- Adobe Audition
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Apple Final Cut Pro
- Audio editing software
- Avid Pro Tools
- Avid Technology audio visual editing software
- Avid Technology Pro Tools
- Cisco IOS
- IBM Middleware
- Musical instrument digital interface MIDI software
- Perforce software
- Real time operating system RTOS software
- Unity Technologies Unity
- VMware
- Voice over internet protocol VoIP system software
Related occupations
O*NET's own list of the occupations most related to this one, closest first.
ESCO equivalents
From the official ESCO–O*NET crosswalk, strongest match first. A broader occupation takes in this one; a narrower one is a part of it.
Closest occupations
Compare any occupation →Other O*NET occupations whose importance ratings on the 35 skills both rate are nearest to this one's, with the biggest differences named. A plain rule, not a hidden score.
Photographic Process Workers and Processing Machine Operators
Average difference 0.2 points · Programming +0.6, Quality Control Analysis +0.5
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
Average difference 0.3 points · Systems Analysis −0.8, Operations Analysis +0.8
O*NET · Zone 3 · Compare
Endoscopy Technicians
Average difference 0.3 points · Systems Evaluation −0.7, Negotiation −0.6
O*NET · Zone 2 · Compare
Audio and Video Technicians
Average difference 0.3 points · Installation +1.0, Operations Analysis +0.8
O*NET · Zone 3 · Compare
Captains, Mates, and Pilots of Water Vessels
Average difference 0.3 points · Management of Personnel Resources +1.2, Management of Material Resources +0.8
O*NET · Zone 3 · Compare
Nuclear Technicians
Average difference 0.3 points · Science +1.2, Mathematics +0.8
O*NET · Zone 3 · Compare
Histotechnologists
Average difference 0.3 points · Science +1.4, Operation and Control −0.7
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
Computer Network Support Specialists
Average difference 0.3 points · Installation +1.3, Operation and Control −1.3
O*NET · Zone 4 · Compare
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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. ESCO occupations and skills are from the European Commission's ESCO classification, and the occupation crosswalk is the official ESCO–O*NET mapping by the ESCO Secretariat with USDOL/ETA. This service uses the ESCO classification of the European Commission. BlissPoint Analytics has modified all or some of this information: skill, task and descriptor ratings are rounded to one decimal, and ESCO occupations show Job Zone and interests copied from a crosswalked O*NET occupation. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.