Sound engineering technicians are tasked to record and also manipulate sound with the use of a technical device or equipment. The output of this will be used often for broadcasting and motion picture industries. Some of their most common duties include the following: troubleshooting and reporting issues about the use of equipment, conversion of audio and video for editing purposes, and setting up and breaking down complex equipment in various concert venues.
What does the audio engineering technician do?
The main duty of the sound engineering technician is to run the equipment used for mixing, recording, and manipulating sound. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) said that there are 13,100 sound engineering technicians in the US as of May last year. Most of them are employed by sound recording industries, radio and television broadcasting networks, performing arts firms, and even universities and colleges.
When employed in a radio or broadcasting station, a sound engineering technician will be in charge of operating transmitters as well as maintaining equipment used for broadcasting. If you are employed by a television or film production company, you will be in charge of dubbing and the creation of special sound effects that can be integrated with films. You may also be responsible for sound recording logs, studio preps for recording sessions, and sound recording reproduction from old media sources.
What are the educational requirements?
The BLS stated that it is crucial for an audio engineering technician to complete a vocational program in sound engineering to land a job as a sound engineering technician. This will give you a theoretical background on the audio and sound recording processes involved. A lot of the programs include hands-on coursework which is done in a professional recording studio. Courses may also tackle acoustics, sound mixing, sound reinforcement, and theory in music. You may also find some vocational courses that include basic courses in mathematics, computer science, and electronics.
What are some qualities and skills that an audio engineering technician must possess?
Several skills must be learned by an aspiring audio engineering technician through a program. These include problem-solving, communication, being tech savvy, having an ear for music, and keen attention to detail.
Problem-Solving Skills
It is likely for an audio engineer technician to come across some problems, and it is important for him or her to think critically. Some of the problems may include equipment breakdowns or mistakes committed by the crew.
Communication Skills
The sound engineering technician plays the central role in any recording studio or live event. They’re responsible for the coordination with the sound crew, musicians, and other major stakeholders as regards the audio production process in the entire music production process. By communicating the proper message at the most appropriate time can ensure that the music production will be on time and within the budget.
Ear for Sound
Most audio engineering technicians are born with this skill, but this can also be learned. A computer tool can be used to separate various tracks, enabling the sound engineering technician to listen to each individual part of a track.
Keen Attention to Detail
Remember that a slight change in sound may create ripples of change in the track. A level off in a live show can ruin the entire production. This makes it essential for the audio engineering technician to ensure that each detail is accurate to achieve an accurate recording or performance.
Being Tech Savvy
The bulk of an audio engineering technician’s work is working with audio equipment and music software whose output will be used in performance or recorded in a studio. Thus, it is crucial for an aspiring sound engineering technician to be comfortable with computer software, the latest technology, and up-to-date equipment.