To become an audio technician, you must complete four steps: post-secondary education, related work experience, certification, and a job interview. An audio technician assists with audio transmissions, performances, and recordings setting up, recording, and managing them. Television studios, lecture halls, audio and home theater installation companies are all places where an audio technician can work.
Audio technicians often have a strong interest in music, enjoy a wide variety of music, and have naturally good hearing. Many people also improve their hearing taking listening classes, ear training, and other programs that aim to improve their natural abilities.
To become an audio technician, you must first complete a post-secondary education program. A wide range of community and career colleges offer audio technician programs. Look for schools that include audio technician training in their curriculum. Because demand for this training is growing, the admissions criteria for this specialty may be slightly higher than the standard program.
A job placement program or a part-time job as an assistant audio technician can help you get the related work experience you need to become an audio technician. Work as an audio-visual set-up assistant, recording assistant, DJ, or in a theater are some other options for related work experience.
As an audio technician, you can obtain professional certification through a variety of programs. Professional certification, while not required law, can be useful when applying for jobs on movie sets, television shows, or other unionized work locations. Examine the program details to see if this type of certification is available.
If you’re applying for a job as an audio technician, double-check your resume and cover letter for any grammar or spelling errors. Remember that during the job interview, the employer will most likely have a standard list of questions and will be looking for complete, concise responses. Remember that everything you say will be recorded and analyzed. Consider your responses, remain calm, and concentrate on how you can help.
Consider volunteering as an assistant for a local high school or theater production to add valuable audio technician experience to your resume. By observing a professional audio technician in this role, you can learn a lot about how to use the equipment, interact with other professionals, and more. It’s important to remember that even a part-time job can provide opportunities to learn if you pay attention and give it your all.