Sound Engineer

Dec 17, 2023

Seasonal
Seattle

ABOUT THE POSITION

Town Hall seeks seasonal, Part-Time Sound Engineers to manage day-of-show audio routing, mixing and recording of Town Hall events. Reporting to the Technical Manager, the Sound Engineer works with the House Manager, Videographer, and house staff to ensure high-quality performance level audio in a safe and customer service-oriented environment. Event-related duties include set-up, operation and tear down of the technical equipment used to record, amplify and mix sound. Occasional video projection set-up and basic lightboard operation may also be required. Shifts vary in length and shift times vary based on event needs. Evening and weekend hours are required. Ladder work may be required.

COMPENSATION AND STRUCTURE

Status: This position is seasonal, September-June, with limited summer hours. Flexible hours. Non-exempt.

Reports to: Technical Manager and Production Director (scheduling only)

Compensation: Starting hourly rate is $26.31/hour for spoken word and $32.23/hour for concert audio package events. The position is nonexempt. Meal stipend and ORCA card benefits available based on shift eligibility.

Benefits: Paid sick and safe time (PSST), per Washington state law.

Location: Onsite at our venue on 8th Avenue and Seneca St.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/DUTIES

  • Responsible for ensuring the success of live events by performing the technical tasks related to live event audio.
  • Proper and safe setup, operation, and teardown of the technical equipment used to record, amplify and mix sound. This includes taping down cables for safety.
  • Following instructions and details from event managers and Tech Manager and collaborating with fellow team members, clients, and performers.
  • Meeting internal and client quality standards by understanding projects and using the correct equipment and techniques.
  • Collaborating with lighting, video, and other members of Town Hall’s Production Team.
  • Deploying sound equipment safely and on time before events, broadcasts, or recordings as well as testing for volume, tone, and clarity. This may include setting up monitor systems, running audio cables, setting up microphones and other equipment.
  • Operating mixing consoles and regulating gain structure, volume levels, and sound quality.
  • Testing and troubleshooting equipment regularly, resolving technical issues when they arise.
  • Ensure equipment is secure from theft and/or damage when in use or in storage.
  • Basic video projection setup and troubleshooting.
  • Set up power distribution as needed on stage.
  • Perform basic house light and/or stage light cues, in collaboration with the House Manager.
  • Assist video production by providing audio feed as needed.
  • Record performances and transfer or upload files post-event.
  • Other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Minimum two years of hands-on experience in digital audio mixing and recording.
  • Technical expertise in sound engineering techniques including but not limited to routing, equalization, room tuning, etc.
  • Working knowledge of microphone techniques for speakers as well as live bands and instruments.
  • Expertise with wireless systems including finding open channels, grouping and scanning receivers, syncing transmitters.
  • Working knowledge of recording software and hardware.
  • General knowledge of all technical production categories, including but not limited to audio, lighting, staging, and video is encouraged.
  • Demonstrate positive attitude and ability to effectively collaborate with others.
  • Good time-management skills.
  • Ability to follow written instructions and communicate effectively with others in oral and written form.
  • Demonstrate personal initiative and resourcefulness; ability to act and resolve needs independently.
  • Familiarity with Allen & Heath digital consoles and ecosystem is a plus.
  • Proficient computer skills including presentation software (e.g. PowerPoint, OBS Studio, Keynote) with the ability to troubleshoot basic IT problems.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize assigned tasks.
  • A strong ear for sound variants and how to solve them.
  • Maintain high quality service and execution standards including proper professional attire when working with rental clients, staff, and audience members.
  • Must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends, lift and carry up to 40 lbs.

TO APPLY

Submit resumé and cover letter outlining specific qualifications and your interest in Town Hall, to jobs@townhallseattle.org, with “Sound Engineer: Name” in the subject line.

Hiring for ‘House Staff’ positions such as this is on a rolling basis. Materials are collected and reviewed as determined by the needs of Town Hall. Applicants may not hear from us immediately.

Data shows that women and BIPOC candidates more frequently do not apply to a job because they don’t feel that they meet all of the qualifications listed.  We strongly encourage applications from people with diverse backgrounds and lived experience, even if you have most but not all the qualifications listed above.  If you feel enthusiastic about our efforts and believe that you have the skills to contribute to the growth of our organization, we want to hear from you.

Town Hall is an equal opportunity employer. Town Hall was founded to be an accessible shared resource for the community: a place where everyone is welcomed, represented, and valued regardless of their race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, religion, disability, size, or class. Please see our full racial equity statement here.

To apply for this job email your details to jobs@townhallseattle.org