A sound technician, sometimes called an audio technician, is responsible for setting up, operating, and maintaining the technical equipment used to record, amplify, enhance, mix or reproduce sound. In the UK, sound technicians work in a variety of settings such as television and radio studios, theatres, music venues, and film sets. The job often involves working with microphones, mixing desks, speakers, and computers to ensure the best possible sound quality for performances, broadcasts, or recordings. Sound technicians may specialise in either live sound (working at concerts or events) or studio sound (working on recordings for music, film, or television). Attention to detail, technical know-how, and good communication skills are essential in this career. The work can be demanding, with tight deadlines and the need to adapt quickly to different environments.
Sound technicians in the UK typically earn between £18,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and sector.
There are over 15,000 sound technician roles across the UK, including positions in live events, broadcasting, and studios.
Many sound technicians work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, especially in live events and theatre.
Works at concerts or events managing the sound equipment and ensuring high-quality audio for audiences.
Operates recording equipment and software in music or radio studios, capturing and mixing tracks for artists.
Manages audio for television or radio broadcasts, ensuring clear and balanced sound on air.
Aim for at least 5 GCSEs at grades 4 or above, including English, Maths, and Science.
Having a good grounding in Maths and Science will help you understand the technical aspects of sound. Subjects like Music or Design and Technology can also be helpful. This is the basic educational requirement to move forward with further study or apprenticeships.
Take A levels, BTECs, or other Level 3 qualifications in subjects such as Music Technology, Media, or Performing Arts.
A Level 3 qualification like a BTEC National Diploma in Music Technology or a T Level in Media, Broadcast and Production will provide practical experience and introduce you to industry-standard equipment. Many colleges offer hands-on courses that are highly valued by employers.
Volunteer to help with sound at school plays, concerts, or local events.
Working on real events, even on a voluntary basis, helps you develop essential skills such as setting up microphones, operating mixing desks, and troubleshooting equipment. This experience is valuable for building your CV and confidence.
Apply for work placements or apprenticeships with theatres, recording studios, or media companies.
Many employers offer apprenticeships in Live Event Technician or Creative Venue Technician. These opportunities combine on-the-job training with study and can lead directly to full-time employment. Check sites like the National Apprenticeship Service and local venues for openings.
Gain proficiency with mixing desks, microphones, amplification systems, and audio editing software.
Familiarise yourself with digital audio workstations such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Ableton Live, as well as live sound desks from brands like Allen & Heath or Yamaha. Many online tutorials and short courses are available to help develop your technical knowledge.
Record your work on projects and connect with professionals in the industry.
Keep a portfolio or showreel of your work, including recordings or videos of live events you have worked on. Attend industry events, join professional organisations like the Association of Sound Designers, and make connections that could lead to job opportunities.
Broadcast engineers work with the technical aspects of radio and television production, ensuring broadcasts run smoothly and managing equipment.
Lighting technicians are responsible for setting up and operating lighting for live events, television, theatre, and film, often working closely with sound teams.
Music producers oversee the recording and production of music tracks, working with artists and sound technicians to create the final sound.
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 specialise in setting up, operating, and maintaining audio equipment to ensure high-quality sound for various productions or events. Their qualifications often overlap, focusing on technical skills related to audio systems, microphones, and sound mixing, making them closely related careers.
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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