Audio assistant

What does an audio technician do? – Tasks and work environment

An audio technician primarily assists sound engineers during productions in theater, concerts, TV, film, or other events. The role involves setting up, testing, and maintaining audio equipment, running cables, preparing microphones, and ensuring all technology functions correctly before and during performances. Collaboration with other technical roles such as lighting and stage technicians is common. The work environment can vary greatly – from quiet studios to noisy concert halls, with often irregular hours including evenings and weekends.

Salary development over time

The salary of an audio technician has shown a clear positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 35,100 SEK, which increased slightly to 35 500 SEK in 2023. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a significant jump to 38 600 SEK, representing an approximate 8.7% increase over one year. This trend reflects growing demand for skills in sound engineering, likely driven by more events, digital productions, and technological advancements. Audio technicians with specialized skills and experience have gained better bargaining power regarding salary, while the industry is also affected by a general wage increase in the tech and culture sectors.

Audio technician salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 38 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,600 SEK/month (female), 36,100 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 40,300 SEK/month (female), 43,700 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage: 232 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 96% of what men do (37 300 SEK vs 38 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data is lacking, but larger cities tend to offer more and higher-paid jobs.

Education and qualifications

To work as an audio technician, a technical high school education with a focus on sound or media is usually required, but many employers prefer candidates with postgraduate courses or practical experience in sound engineering. Internships and trainee programs are common pathways into the profession, and there are also opportunities to train through private vocational schools or folk high schools specializing in sound engineering. The industry values technical interest, problem-solving skills, and teamwork.

• Formal education: High school diploma in technology/media, postgraduate courses (6–24 months)
• Certifications: Specialized training in sound technology (e.g., PA, studio)
• Internships: Internships and trainee programs at theaters, TV stations, or production companies
• Prerequisites: Technical interest, some experience with audio equipment
• Self-study: Online courses and workshops in sound engineering and digital audio systems

Common benefits and compensations

Audio technicians are often offered benefits such as overtime pay for evening and weekend work, wellness allowances, and sometimes access to staff discounts or cultural activities. Collective agreements and occupational pensions are also common. Opportunities for skills development through internal courses or industry fairs are available, especially with larger employers.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as an audio technician is relatively high, especially in larger cities where many seek careers in the culture and media industry. At the same time, there is a significant need for flexible and technically skilled personnel at larger events, creating temporary job opportunities. Challenges often include irregular working hours, physically demanding tasks, and a fast-paced production environment. Technological development also requires ongoing training. Establishing oneself in the industry can take time, but experience and specialization increase chances of securing permanent positions.

Tips for those who want to become an audio technician

To succeed as an audio technician, it’s beneficial to combine technical interest with strong teamwork skills, as work often involves collaboration under time pressure. Being flexible and resilient to stress is important, especially when schedules change quickly and technical problems must be solved on-site. A curious attitude towards new technologies and software makes it easier to stay updated in a rapidly changing industry. Building a network through internships, volunteering, or part-time work at events is highly recommended. Precision and a sense of responsibility are crucial to ensure smooth production flow. Finally, showing engagement and willingness to take on extra responsibilities often leads to more and more qualified assignments.

Key facts about audio technicians

• Education level: High school or postgraduate education with a focus on sound technology
• Work environment: Varies, often event-based and sometimes physically demanding
• Employment types: Project-based, hourly, and permanent positions
• Demand: 620 available jobs in the light, sound, and stage technology sector
• Special skills: Handling sound systems, microphones, and digital sound consoles

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years in the profession, audio technicians can advance to sound engineer, sound designer, or project manager for larger productions. There are also opportunities to specialize in areas such as broadcasting, live sound, or studio recording. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, no specific assessment is made for the profession of audio technician due to limited data, but the entire light, sound, and stage technology sector has 620 available jobs, indicating a certain demand. Those who are technically skilled, flexible, and willing to continue their education have good prospects for development and finding new roles within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about audio technicians

• What is the average salary of an audio technician?
  - An audio technician has an average salary of 38 600 SEK per month.
• What are the gender differences in salaries for audio technicians?
  - Women earn on average 96% of what men do, which corresponds to 37 300 SEK versus 38 800 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become an audio technician?
  - High school education with a focus on technology/media or postgraduate courses in sound engineering are most common.
• What are the future prospects for audio technicians?
  - Projections are lacking for the profession, but there are currently 620 available jobs within the entire field.
• Where are the highest salaries for audio technicians?
  - The highest salaries are often found among private sector employees with postgraduate education in larger cities.
• What personal qualities are important for an audio technician?
  - Technical interest, stress tolerance, teamwork skills, and accuracy are central qualities.
• What is the work environment like for audio technicians?
  - The work environment varies and can involve both studio work and physically demanding tasks at events.