Job description

A sound engineer is responsible for recording, mixing, editing, and mastering audio. They ensure clarity, balance, and expression for concerts, albums, films, or radio programs. The role blends technical precision with artistic creativity across music and audiovisual industries.

Main missions

• Set up microphones, mixing desks, interfaces, and recording devices.
• Manage sound quality during studio sessions and live events.
• Mix and edit tracks in professional DAWs (Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools).
• Adjust levels, EQ, dynamics, effects, and perform basic mastering.
• Collaborate with artists, producers, and technical teams.
• Maintain audio equipment and ensure signal flow reliability.

Work environments

• Recording studios
• Live venues and festivals
• Film/TV and post-production
• Radio stations and podcasts
• Advertising and multimedia
• Freelance / independent projects

Skills required

Technical skills

• Audio recording, editing, mixing, and basic mastering
• DAWs: Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools
• Microphones, preamps, mixers, monitors, and plugins

Soft skills

• Teamwork and communication with artists
• Precision, patience, creativity
• Adaptability and stress management in live contexts

Education & training (France)

• BTS Métiers du Son (2 years)
• Licence Professionnelle in sound/AV (Bachelor level)
• Specialized schools: SAE Institute, ESRA, CIFAP
• Self-learning and continuous practice are common and valued

Job market & salary (indicative)

• Entry-level: ~€1,900 – €2,200 / month
• Experienced: ~€2,500 – €3,500 / month
• Freelance: variable, depends on gigs and clients

Demand exists across cultural industries, events, and digital content.

Career development

• Music Producer / Chief Sound Engineer
• Studio Manager / Radio Sound Director
• Sound Designer (film, TV, games)

Personal perspective

I have been playing piano for 12 years at the conservatory and I love music, sound, and art. I want to blend technology and music, especially in audiovisual and studio contexts. I discovered the job during a middle-school internship at my music school and later at a festival where I observed stage work and learned theory basics. I already use Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and mixing consoles; now I want more hands-on practice. I’m interested in independent work, producing concerts, albums, and radio projects, and I aim to evolve as a sound producer or audio project manager.

Keywords

Mixing · Audio recording · Sound design · Live performance · Ableton Live · Logic Pro · Music production · Creativity · Teamwork