A sound technician is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment for a range of events and productions, such as concerts, theatre performances, TV shows, and films. They ensure that sound quality is clear and balanced by managing microphones, mixing desks, and recording devices. Their work can involve both live sound (during events) and studio sound (for recordings), and they often collaborate closely with performers, directors, and other technical staff. Attention to detail, technical knowledge, and problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to work under pressure and to tight deadlines. Many sound technicians are employed by theatre companies, broadcasters, or event production firms, while others work freelance.
Sound technicians in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £35,000 per year, with experienced professionals in senior roles earning up to £45,000 or more.
There are around 12,000 people employed as sound technicians in the UK, working across music, television, film, theatre, and live events.
Sound technicians often work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially when supporting live events or theatre productions.
Specialises in setting up and operating sound equipment for concerts, theatre productions, and live events to ensure the best audio quality for the audience.
Works in recording studios to capture and mix music, voiceovers, or other audio for albums, adverts, or films.
Manages audio for radio and television broadcasts, including mixing, editing, and ensuring clear sound for programmes and news.
Learn about what sound technicians do, where they work, and the different specialisms within audio engineering.
Sound technicians can work in diverse settings such as music concerts, TV studios, film sets, and radio stations. Researching online, reading job profiles, or watching documentaries can give you a clear picture of the profession. You might also talk to professionals or attend careers events to find out more.
Volunteer or join school or community projects that involve sound equipment, such as theatre productions, school concerts, or local radio.
Getting practical experience early is invaluable. Many schools, colleges, and community groups need help with audio for performances or events. Volunteering or taking part lets you try out equipment and understand basic sound principles, which will help you decide if this is the right path for you.
Take GCSEs and A-levels in subjects such as Music, Physics, or Media Studies. Consider further study such as a college course or university degree in sound engineering or audio production.
Having a solid grounding in science, particularly physics, will help you understand sound waves and acoustics. Many sound technicians also have qualifications in music or media. After GCSEs, you might choose a BTEC in Music Technology or a related field, or go on to study for a degree in audio engineering or music technology.
Learn how to use sound equipment and software, such as mixing desks, microphones, and digital audio workstations (DAWs).
Modern sound technicians need to be comfortable with both hardware and software. Free or affordable software like Audacity or Reaper can help you practise editing and mixing at home. Many community organisations and schools have equipment you can use, and there are numerous online tutorials to help you learn.
Apply for junior roles, apprenticeships, or work experience placements with studios, venues, or production companies.
Entry-level positions might include being a runner, junior technician, or assistant in a studio or live venue. Apprenticeships are a great way to learn on the job and make industry contacts. Use online job boards, apprenticeship websites, and industry forums to look for openings.
Create a portfolio of your work and actively network with industry professionals.
Keep recordings or videos of projects you have worked on, such as school concerts or amateur recordings. A strong portfolio can help you secure more advanced roles. Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and connect with others online to keep up to date and find new opportunities.
Stay up to date with new technology and trends in audio engineering through courses, workshops, and self-study.
The world of sound technology is always evolving, with new equipment and techniques emerging all the time. Regularly attending workshops, taking specialist courses, or earning further qualifications will help you stay competitive in the industry.
Lighting technicians are responsible for setting up and operating lighting equipment to create desired visual effects for events, performances, and productions.
Broadcast engineers work in radio and television, ensuring that programmes are transmitted with high quality audio and video, and maintaining broadcasting equipment.
Stage managers coordinate all aspects of live performances, including managing technical teams like sound and lighting, and ensuring smooth running of shows.
Please note that this may not be a comprehensive list of available apprenticeships. To view a more complete collection, visit the Find an apprenticeship service.
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Your current career is highlighted to help you see how it fits into the broader landscape of potential career choices. By clicking on any career, you can learn more about it, including the training and education required to pursue it.
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A Sound Technician and an Audio visual technician both typically work with audio equipment, sound systems, and multimedia technology to support productions or events. Their skills overlap in managing audio setups, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring the quality of sound delivery in live or recorded environments.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a course to get some of the skills and knowledge needed in this job. Courses include:
Once you've finished your course, you could apply for a trainee job at a theatre, college, production company or events organisation. Some employers might want you to have experience of helping with live or online events.
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You could apply to do an apprenticeship, for example:
You'll usually need:
You could start as an assistant technician and work your way up through training and promotion.
Experience and qualifications in broadcast engineering, sound technology or electronics may help when it comes to applying for jobs.
You could volunteer with a charity, community group or theatre. This could help you get experience of setting up and running audio visual equipment.
You could join the Production Services Association (PSA) or the Professional Lighting and Sound Association (PLASA) for training, professional recognition and to make industry contacts.
You can get more information on audio visual careers from ScreenSkills.
You can also learn about working in the wider creative industries from Discover Creative Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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