Music Industry Careers: Jobs in Pro Audio
Are you passionate about music, sound and technology? If so, consider exploring jobs in pro audio. The pro audio field spans several key areas, including recording, production, design, manufacturing, marketing and sales, each contributing to the innovation and delivery of professional audio technologies.
Pro audio professionals shape the sound of today’s music, entertainment and tech-driven world. As new advancements emerge, such as immersive audio experiences and digital tools, the field continues to expand, offering fulfilling career paths for a life in music. Here’s a sample of roles in the dynamic field of professional audio.
PRO AUDIO RECORDING & PRODUCTION
Audio Engineer
Responsibilities: Operates recording equipment to capture, mix and produce audio recordings. Works directly with artists and producers. An audio engineer may also be responsible for setting up the studio, adjusting microphone placements, managing recording sessions, and editing the final product to achieve the desired outcome.
Key Skills: Proficiency in audio recording and editing software, sound engineering techniques, troubleshooting audio equipment and software issues; strong attention to detail in audio production, knowledge of microphone techniques, an understanding of acoustics
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$100,000*
Music Producer
Responsibilities: Oversees the entire production process, from initial concept to final production. Collaborates closely with artists to develop musical ideas, arrange compositions, and guide the production process to completion. The music producer ensures that the project stays on track, handles budgeting and scheduling, and works with engineers and other team members to maintain high-quality standards in the final product.
Key Skills: Deep understanding of music theory and arrangement, proficiency in music production software (e.g., Ableton Live, FL Studio), leadership and communication skills to direct artists and production teams, project management, a keen understanding of music trends and sound aesthetics
Average Annual Salary Range: $50,000–$150,000*
Mixing Engineer
Responsibilities: Combines individual tracks into a cohesive final mix. Balances levels, adds effects, and ensures clarity and the integration of all elements in the mix. Mixing engineers are responsible for ensuring that the music sounds polished and ready for final mastering. This involves making artistic decisions regarding tone, dynamics and space in the final product.
Key Skills: Advanced mixing techniques, proficiency in mixing software, excellent hearing and attention to detail in audio mixing, knowledge of EQ, compression, and reverb; the ability to balance creative elements with technical precision
Average Annual Salary Range: $45,000–$100,000*
Mastering Engineer
Responsibilities: Finalizes audio mixes for distribution, ensuring consistent quality across different formats and playback systems. Enhances audio tracks to achieve optimal sound quality for CD, vinyl, digital streaming or radio play. The mastering engineer prepares the final master by adjusting equalization, compression and limiting to ensure that the track sounds balanced and polished on any playback system.
Key Skills: Expertise in mastering software and tools, critical listening abilities, knowledge of audio formats and distribution requirements, familiarity with loudness standards, an understanding of dynamic range and final output levels
Average Annual Salary Range: $45,000–$85,000*
Sound Designer
Responsibilities: Creates and manipulates audio elements for various applications such as music production, film or gaming. Uses synthesizers, effects and samples to craft unique sounds and soundscapes that complement and enhance visual media or musical compositions. Sound designers work closely with directors or artists.
Key Skills: Proficiency in sound design software, creative thinking, technical knowledge of synthesis and sampling techniques, sound editing, familiarity with sound libraries, strong communication skills for collaborating with directors and other creative professionals
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$80,000*
Songwriter
Responsibilities: Creates original music and lyrics for songs, often collaborating with other writers or artists to develop compositions and contribute to music projects. Songwriters typically focus on writing melodies, harmonies and lyrics that resonate with listeners, and may also be responsible for overseeing the arrangement and production of their work in collaboration with producers.
Key Skills: Creativity in music composition and lyric writing, understanding of song structures and melodies, ability to collaborate effectively with others in the creative process, proficiency in playing an instrument, a deep understanding of music theory and lyric writing techniques
Average Annual Salary Range: $30,000–$100,000* (depends on royalties and success)
Music Arranger
Responsibilities: Arranges music compositions, determining instrumentation, orchestration and style for performances or recordings. Prepares musical scores and arrangements tailored to specific musical projects. Music arrangers work closely with composers or performers to bring their vision to life while maintaining the integrity of the original composition.
Key Skills: Strong background in music theory and orchestration, proficiency in arranging software, an ear for harmonies and melodies, ability to adapt compositions to suit different genres and performance settings
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$85,000*
A&R (Artist and Repertoire) Rep
Responsibilities: Scouts new talent for music labels or production companies, collaborating with artists to develop their sound and select songs for albums or singles. A&R reps are key players in discovering and nurturing emerging artists, guiding them through the recording process, and identifying songs that will resonate with their target audience.
Key Skills: Knowledge of current music trends, ability to identify potential talent, negotiation skills, relationship building with artists and industry professionals, a keen ear for commercial potential, strong communication and interpersonal skills for building artist relationships
Average Annual Salary Range: $50,000–$110,000*
Studio Tech
Responsibilities: Maintains and repairs recording equipment and studio infrastructure. Ensures all technical equipment is operational and ready for use during recording sessions. Studio techs often troubleshoot technical issues in real-time, ensuring that all systems are functioning smoothly and efficiently during recording or live production sessions.
Key Skills: Proficiency in electronics troubleshooting, soldering and wiring, familiarity with music recording studio equipment and maintenance procedures, strong problem-solving skills, the ability to perform preventative maintenance on complex systems
Average Annual Salary Range: $35,000–$60,000*
Live Event Producer
Responsibilities: Coordinates live shows and concerts for artists, overseeing venue selection, technical setup, and talent coordination to ensure safe and successful live performances. Live event producers handle the logistics of event planning, sound checks and post-event breakdowns, while managing a variety of teams including technical crews, performers and venue staff.
Key Skills: Event planning and logistics management, knowledge of live sound systems and stage setup, strong team leadership and management skills, ability to handle high-pressure situations, attention to detail in scheduling and coordinating events
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$80,000*
Video Content Producer
Responsibilities: Produces promotional video content for artists, including music videos, behind-the-scenes footage, and performance clips. Directs creative vision, coordinates production teams, and oversees the entire process from beginning to end. Video content producers ensure that the final videos align with the artist’s brand and vision.
Key Skills: Expertise in video production and editing software, creative direction, storytelling through visual media, project management, the ability to work collaboratively with artists, directors and other creative professionals
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$85,000*
PRO AUDIO DESIGN & MANUFACTURING
Audio Engineer (R&D)
Responsibilities: Creates and tests new audio technologies, techniques and solutions like creating new sound processes, evaluating new equipment for its potential in recording studios or live environments, or working on new software for mixing and mastering. Engineers collaborate with designers and developers to improve audio clarity, quality and user experience.
Key Skills: Strong understanding of sound theory and acoustics, familiarity with audio software and digital audio workstations (DAWs), technical proficiency in signal processing, problem-solving and creative skills and attention to detail in sound analysis and system evaluation
Average Annual Salary Range: $60,000–$100,000*
Audio Software Developer
Responsibilities: Creates programs that help in the production, editing and mastering of audio. Designs and develops software tools like digital audio workstations (DAWs), plugins, sound synthesis programs, and other audio applications. This career involves coding, testing and refining software to meet the needs of users, from music producers to sound engineers.
Key Skills: Proficiency in programming languages like C++, Java and Python, strong understanding of audio signal processing, knowledge of DAWs and audio software tools, problem-solving and debugging skills, communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with engineers and designers
Average Annual Salary Range: $75,000–$120,000*
Audio Hardware Engineer
Responsibilities: Develops and designs audio equipment, like microphones, amplifiers, speakers and mixers. Creates prototypes, tests products, ensures products meet industry standards, improves existing technologies.
Key Skills: Electrical engineering and audio electronics knowledge, strong understanding of audio hardware design principles, problem-solving and troubleshooting abilities, familiarity with manufacturing processes, communication and collaboration skills for cross-departmental projects
Average Annual Salary Range: $80,000–$120,000*
Product Development Specialist
Responsibilities: Researches and develops new audio products, collaborates with engineers, designers and marketers to bring innovative products to market, considering customer needs and industry trends. Oversees product testing, feedback collection and final production.
Key Skills: Knowledge of market trends and consumer needs, understanding of the product development cycle, project management and organizational skills, technical expertise with audio equipment, communication skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $60,000–$90,000*
Production Manager
Responsibilities: Manages the manufacturing process of audio equipment, supervises the day-to-day operations of the production line, including overseeing staff, ensures safety protocols are followed, handles resource management, and troubleshoots any production issues.
Key Skills: Strong leadership and team management skills, knowledge of the production processes, problem-solving and organizational skills, ability to work under tight deadlines and adapt to challenges
Average Annual Salary Range: $80,000–$110,000*
Quality Control Technician
Responsibilities: Inspects audio equipment during the manufacturing process to ensure it meets sound quality and functionality standards. Conducts tests on equipment to ensure that products comply with quality standards and safety regulations. Works closely with engineers and designers to implement process improvements.
Key Skills: Attention to detail, familiarity with audio equipment and technical specifications, strong problem-solving skills, ability to perform and document quality control tests, knowledge of industry standards and regulations
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$70,000*
Supply Chain Manager
Responsibilities: Coordinates the movement of materials needed to produce pro audio equipment. Works with suppliers, shipping companies and production teams to make sure that quality materials are delivered on time and within budget. Manages inventory, handles vendor relationships and improves shipping and procurement processes.
Key Skills: Strong organizational and logistical planning abilities, knowledge of import/export regulations, supply chain management software and tools, and strong negotiation and vendor management skills; ability to manage inventory and predict material needs, strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $75,000–$115,000*
Pro Audio Product Manager
Responsibilities: Develops strategies for promoting and positioning new audio products. Works closely with engineering, design and sales teams to ensure the product meets customer needs and market demands. Defines product features and ensures the successful launch of audio products.
Key Skills: Strong understanding of the audio equipment market, excellent project management skills, ability to conduct market research and competitive analysis, strong communication and collaboration skills, knowledge of product lifecycle
Average Annual Salary Range: $80,000–$120,000*
Distribution Manager
Responsibilities: Oversees the distribution of products to retailers and end customers. Ensures that products are shipped on time, within budget and in proper condition. Role may involve managing relationships with third-party logistics providers, tracking shipments and optimizing distribution strategies to ensure efficient product flow.
Key Skills: Strong organizational and logistics management skills, can manage supply chains and distribution networks, excellent problem-solving and negotiation skills, experience with inventory management and shipping systems, strong communication skills for coordinating with vendors and customers
Average Annual Salary Range: $70,000–$110,000*
Logistics Coordinator
Responsibilities: Manages the shipping and delivery of products from manufacturers to retailers or customers. Tracks shipments, manages delivery schedules and ensures that products are delivered on time. Works with carriers and freight companies to coordinate the most efficient shipping methods.
Key Skills: Strong organizational and time management skills, knowledge of logistics software, excellent communication, customer service, problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills, the ability to manage transportation logistics and supply chains
Average Annual Salary Range: $55,000–$80,000*
PRO AUDIO SALES & MARKETING
Marketing Specialist
Responsibilities: Creates marketing materials, advertisements and campaigns to promote pro audio products. Involves developing creative strategies, coordinating with sales teams, and overseeing the execution of marketing campaigns. Uses various marketing including social media, online ads and email campaigns, to increase product visibility and sales.
Key Skills: Expertise in digital marketing and advertising, proficiency with marketing tools, strong creativity and content creation skills, ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines, strong written and verbal communication skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $50,000–$80,000*
Brand Manager
Responsibilities: Oversees the branding and public image of the company and its products. Ensures that all marketing materials, campaigns and customer communications are consistent with the brand’s vision and values. The job involves market positioning, creating brand guidelines, and managing partnerships.
Key Skills: Expertise in brand strategy and positioning, deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, leadership and project management skills, strong communication and interpersonal skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $75,000–$110,000*
Market Research Analyst
Responsibilities: Conducts research to understand consumer needs, market trends and competitive landscapes. Gathers and analyzes data to provide actionable insights to marketing, product development and sales teams. Helps the company make data-driven decisions, develop new products and refine existing offerings.
Key Skills: Strong analytical and statistical skills, market research expertise, analysis and interpretation of large datasets, critical thinking and problem-solving skills, good communication and presentation skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $55,000–$85,000*
Content Marketing Specialist
Responsibilities: Develops content like social media posts, articles, blogs and videos to promote products and brands. Works closely with marketing teams to craft marketing content that speaks to the target audience. Understands customer needs and interests to create content that builds brand awareness, customer loyalty and sales.
Key Skills: Strong writing and storytelling abilities, proficiency in content management systems (CMS), deep knowledge of search engine optimization (SEO) and social media strategies, creative thinking, content performance analyzation skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $50,000–$75,000*
Pro Audio Sales Specialist
Responsibilities: Sells pro audio equipment to retailers, studios, venues and other businesses. Manages client accounts, offers product recommendations, and explains product features and benefits. May work in-person and online to generate new business opportunities and meet sales targets.
Key Skills: In-depth knowledge of pro audio products, strong sales and negotiation skills, excellent customer relationship management skills; good communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to identify customer needs and recommend products
Average Annual Salary Range: $50,000–$85,000 (may receive additional sales bonuses)
Sales Representative
Responsibilities: Handles sales inquiries and provides product information to potential customers. Works closely with clients, answering questions, and offering guidance on product selections.
Key Skills: Excellent communication and customer service skills, ability to handle multiple inquiries and prioritize tasks, deep knowledge of products and features, strong negotiation and persuasion skills, experience with CRM software
Average Annual Salary Range: $40,000–$65,000* (may receive additional sales bonuses)
Sales Engineer
Responsibilities: Provides technical expertise in the sales process, enabling customers to navigate, understand and select the right products for their needs. Assists with product demonstrations, answers technical questions, and provides detailed information about products.
Key Skills: Deep knowledge of pro audio products, excellent communication and presentation skills and the ability to explain complex technical concepts clearly. Problem-solving and troubleshooting skills, and the ability to build relationships with customers.
Average Annual Salary Range: $60,000–$100,000* (may receive additional sales bonuses)
Regional Sales Manager
Responsibilities: Manages sales operations for a specific geographical area. Oversees a team of sales representatives, creates regional sales strategies, and ensures that sales targets are met. Works directly with clients, negotiates large contracts, and maintains relationships with key customers.
Key Skills: Strong leadership, management, sales and negotiation skills; experience in strategic planning and market analysis, excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to motivate and manage sales teams
Average Annual Salary Range: $80,000–$120,000* (may receive additional sales bonuses)
Retail Sales Associate
Responsibilities: Works in retail environments, assisting customers in selecting audio equipment and accessories. Provides product knowledge, conducts demonstrations, and closes sales. Involves maintaining store displays, keeping track of inventory, and ensuring positive customer experiences.
Key Skills: Deep knowledge of pro audio products, strong customer service and sales skills, ability to demonstrate products and explain features, strong teamwork and communication skills, inventory management and organizational skills
Average Annual Salary Range: $30,000–$50,000* (may receive additional sales bonuses)
E-commerce Sales Manager
Responsibilities: Manages online sales channels, including websites and third-party platforms like Amazon or Sweetwater. Boosts product listings, creates promotions and improves customer engagement and analyzes sales data to optimize e-commerce strategies.
Key Skills: Experience with e-commerce platforms (Reverb, Sweetwater, Amazon, etc.), digital marketing knowledge, strong communication and customer service skills, data analysis skills and the ability to manage online promotions and campaigns
Average Annual Salary Range: $55,000–$85,000*
Want to Explore More Music Industry Careers?
If you enjoyed reading about jobs in pro audio, check out the rest of our Music Industry Careers series on Playback Blog:
Music Industry Careers: Jobs in Music Retail Stores
Music Industry Careers: Jobs in Music Products Manufacturing
*Salaries vary depending on location, experience and specific responsibilities.
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Audio Engineering Society, Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Sound on Sound, ProSoundWeb, YouTube
About the Author
Eric Ebel is senior project manager at NAMM for The NAMM Foundation. He manages market development and NAMM Foundation programs, including Consider a Career in Music, music educator and advocacy programming. He joined NAMM in 1997 and has held various roles, including show manager and senior trade show sales associate. With over 40 years in the music industry, Ebel has been a U.S. Marine Corps musician, product specialist, touring musician and faculty member at Musician’s Institute. He also performs regularly in Southern California.