Sound designer / Technician

Sound technicians record, mix and monitor sound for live and recorded film and television productions.

They use microphones, recording equipment and editing software to record sound and produce a clear, high-quality soundtrack. They specialise in either production sound, recording sound on set, or location post-production, putting together the production's final soundtrack.

On a production sound team they could be working as a sound recordist (also known as production mixer), a boom operator or a sound assistant.

This is a senior role in the TV and film industries and you are likely to start in support roles in the Camera Department. The role forms part of a technical production team which often includes Sound and Light - more people are becoming multi-skills technicians.

Duties may include: setting up equipment to suit the acoustics and the sound designer’s instructions; selecting, positioning and adjusting microphones; monitoring sound quality; recording onto digital audio tape; servicing and repairing equipment; and playing music or sound effects into a live programme.

Post-production sound work can involve: following a sound designer or sound supervisor's instructions; mixing and balancing speech, effects and background music; editing speech to fit the action on screen; and creating extra sound effects and adding them into the soundtrack ('foley').

Starting salaries can work out at £18,000 to £25,000 a year for ongoing full-time work (although it is common to work for less at the start of your career). Experienced freelance rates can be between £800 and £1600 a week (before tax).

Freelance rates can vary widely. You could negotiate fees based on the type of production and your own track record. Contact BECTU for current pay guidelines.

You will need a good knowledge of sound technology and equipment, and you will find it useful to understand basic electronics and the physics of sound.

You may increase your chances of getting into the industry by taking a relevant course to develop your knowledge and skills before you look for work. Courses include: City & Guilds 7503 Certificate/Diploma in Sound and Music Technology; BTEC National Certificate/Diploma in Media Production (Sound Recording) or Music Technology; BTEC HNC/HND in Media (Audio); foundation degrees or degrees in sound engineering, music technology, media technology or technical theatre.

Check with colleges or universities for entry requirements.

When looking for your first job, you will find it useful to have practical experience of using sound equipment.

Taking a relevant course can help, and you can also build experience through activities like working on student or community film projects, rigging sound for amateur theatre or local bands, working for a sound equipment manufacturer or hire company and assisting in a recording or editing studio.

Contact Skillset Careers for more advice about finding work experience.