Sound Engineering Technicians: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 13,050 sound engineering technicians, and they earn a median of $66,430/year. The range runs from $37K to $135K. New Jersey pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level sound engineering technicians start around $37K. The gap between that and the median ($66K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $135K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $112K | 320 |
| Washington | $111K | 350 |
| District of Columbia | $102K | 90 |
| Arizona | $97K | 250 |
| New York | $87K | 1,690 |
| Nevada | $82K | 160 |
| California | $78K | 3,800 |
| Alabama | $77K | 50 |
| Maryland | $71K | 220 |
| Tennessee | $70K | 500 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a sound engineering technicians make?▼
The median sound engineering technicians salary in the United States is $66,430 per year ($32/hour). Entry-level positions start around $36,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $134,980.
What education do you need to become a sound engineering technicians?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for sound engineering technicians?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for sound engineering technicians.
What are the highest paying states for sound engineering technicians?▼
The highest paying states for sound engineering technicians are New Jersey ($111,580), Washington ($110,950), District of Columbia ($101,550), Arizona ($97,380), New York ($87,180). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.