Technician

Sound technicians record, mix and monitor sound for live and recorded film/TV productions using microphones, recording equipment and editing software.

They specialise in either production sound - recording on set/location, or post-production – putting together the final soundtrack.

Production sound teams usually consist of a chief sound recordist or production mixer, a boom operator and a sound assistant. Post-production teams can include a re-recording (dubbing) mixer and dialogue editor/mixer.

Depending on job role, 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.

To become a sound technician, you will need a good knowledge of sound technology and an understanding of physics and electronics.

Many sound engineers start by taking a course in sound engineering, media technology or music technology, to develop skills before looking for work.

You may increase your chances of finding work by taking a college or university course such as: City & Guilds 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); and foundation degrees or degrees in sound engineering, music technology, media technology or technical theatre.

To find a suitable course use the course search on this site and check with colleges or universities for course 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.