Sound Engineer

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used. Here is how this occupation has been classified over time:

• 2006 NOC: Audio and Video Recording Technicians (5225) 
• 2006 NOC-S: Audio and Video Recording Technicians (F125) 
• 2011 NOC: Audio and video recording technicians (5225) 
• 2016 NOC: Audio and video recording technicians (5225) 
• 2021 NOC: Audio and video recording technicians (52113) 

Sound engineers mix sound in live performances to produce the sound audiences and performers hear. Performers may use earphones or monitors to hear only specific voices or instruments. 

Sound engineers are not considered professional engineers and do not engage in the practice of engineering as defined in the Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf].

Unlike professional engineers who may design or construct audio systems, sound engineers:

• discuss sound requirements with the production director, sound designer, artists or their representatives
• develop a sound plot (a script of sound effects, music and changes in sound level)
• select music and sound effects (for example, birdsong or traffic noises) from a sound library or record them
• develop and program playback of created sound plots using a variety of audio equipment (for example, digital playback automation software)
• select and position microphones and loudspeakers, and lay any necessary cables (or direct others in these tasks) 
• balance amplication, equalize frequency response and mix sound during technical rehearsals and sound checks based on input from directors, sound designers or performers
• conduct system tests before performances to ensure all sound equipment is placed and working properly
• operate the sound desk during shows according to the sound plot, previous direction from performers and cues from the stage manager
• maintain sound equipment

In addition, sound engineers

• may be responsible for the house sound system, the performer's monitor system or recording the performance.

For live shows performed in a series of different venues, sound engineers may supervise the set up and tear down of the entire sound system or do the work themselves. It can be challenging to ensure the audience and performers can hear the sound effects and live music to the best effect, particularly in venues without an acoustically stable environment.

In smaller organizations, sound engineers also may assist with lighting (for more information, see the Lighting Technician occupational profile).

Sound engineers work in theatres and other performance venues, often in semi-darkness at a control desk near the back. They occasionally may work at heights. Those who travel with a show sometimes work outdoors in all weather conditions. Some lifting is required to move and place sound equipment, which can weigh 20 kg or more.

Working evenings, weekends and holidays is common in this occupation. Sound engineers may be required to work long hours during rehearsal periods or spend a lot of time traveling on performance tours.

It can be difficult to break into sound engineering. Experience working on a practicum placement through a school training program or as a volunteer at a performance venue is an asset.

Most sound engineers are self-employed. They may work on a contract basis for:

• theatre and dance companies
• live sound re-enforcement companies
• clubs
• bands
• cruise lines.

It is common in the industry for someone to start out as a "gofer" or assistant engineer in a theatre or a "roadie" for a band, and work their way up. You must be willing to work for little money to gain practical experience and establish a reputation for good work.

Advancement generally takes the form of working on increasingly complex productions. Experienced sound engineers may become sound designers or technical production managers, or move into related occupations in radio or television, or sound equipment sales, installation and maintenance.

Sound engineers are part of the larger 2011 National Occupational Classification 5225: Audio and Video Recording Technicians. In Alberta, 75% of people employed in this classification work in the following industries:

• Information, Culture and Recreation (PDF)
• Educational Services (PDF)
• Finance, Insurance, Real Estate and Leasing (PDF)

The employment outlook in this occupation will be influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

• trends and events affecting overall employment (especially in the industries listed above)
• location in Alberta
• employment turnover (work opportunities generated by people leaving existing positions)
• occupational growth (work opportunities resulting from the creation of new positions that never existed before)
• size of the occupation.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Alberta Music Industry Association website: www.albertamusic.org

Cultural Human Resources Council website: www.culturalhrc.ca

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