Sound Technician

Sound Technicians use the soundboard and other audio equipment to make sure that sound levels are correct and that everything in a performance is sounding lekker. Sound editing and management is the cherry on the artist’s work, as it ensures that the music is perfect for both the performer onstage and for the people in the crowd. In some cases, sound technicians also assist with lighting and special effects. Sound Technicians may also find themselves in recording studios or similar settings, depending on their clients.

Sound Technicians play a vitally important role in the music and entertainment industry, using musical instruments and technology to produce or adjust sound for film, radio, television, music and video games. You might also set up, sound check and do live sound mixing for music concerts, theatre, sports games and corporate events.

An undergraduate degree in the sound industry or completed course is required for this career, but any opportunities to gain knowledge about the industry, networking and hands-on experience should be taken to better your chances of being hired (for example, working on a set or interning at a sound engineering company). 

As mentioned, you will be able to obtain a qualification at one of the following institutions in:

1. AFDA- (Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture Medium or Live Performance, majoring in sound design)
2. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (Bachelor of Music technology)
3. SAE institute- Live sound production short course 
4. It is not uncommon to do an apprenticeship with a large sound engineering company, and learn hands-on experience, working your way up the ranks.

Sound Technicians often have no set schedule, as they are working around events that are being performed at the venues in which they work. If you are employed in a studio, you must work around the schedules of the clients; You may find yourself working many late nights or crazy hours. I hope you like coffee. You can expect 12 hour shifts on friday and saturday nights; but on average only 45 hours a week.

As a Sound Technician you can expect to earn anywhere around the average yearly salary of R150 000-R300 000, depending on the clients that you work for. Some areas of the sound & production industry have huge sums of money invested into them, but finding work and clients can be tricky.  

As a Sound Technician you should expect a fast-paced, bright-lights kind of career, constantly interacting with people in the entertainment industry and working late nights. You will like this career if you are someone who likes to network, loves entertainment and is a perfectionist when it comes to the finished product. This industry is generally international, providing opportunities to live and work abroad, so enjoying travel is a must. If you have a passion for music or performance and love the arty-side of technology, this career is a great idea for you!