sound operator
Sound operators control the sound of a performance based on the artistic or creative concept, in interaction with the performers. Their work is influenced by and influences the results of other operators. Therefore, the operators work closely together with the designers and performers. They prepare audio fragments, supervise the setup, steer the technical crew, program the equipment and operate the sound system. Their work is based on plans, instructions and other documentation.
Also called: sound mixer, audio operator, audio board operator, sound board operator, sound audio technician, sound board technician
- 43
- essential skills
- 28
- optional skills
- 8
- related roles
- 3521
- ISCO-08 group
Where you can go from here
8 rolesOccupations sharing the most essential skills with this one. The number is a count, not an opinion.
- performance video operatorWhat changes?28 skills in common
- automated fly bar operatorWhat changes?27 skills in common
- light board operatorWhat changes?27 skills in common
- stage machinist27 skills in common
- sound designer23 skills in common
- media integration operator22 skills in common
- pyrotechnician21 skills in common
- audio production technician17 skills in common
Essential skills
43- adapt artistic plan to location
- adapt to artists' creative demands
- attend rehearsals
- communicate during show
- consult with stakeholders on implementation of a production
- coordinate audio system programmes
- draw up artistic production
- edit recorded sound
- follow safety procedures when working at heights
- interpret artistic intentions
- intervene with actions on stage
- keep up with trends
- mix multi-track recordings
- mix sound in a live situation
- monitor mixing in a live situation
- operate an audio mixing console
- operate sound live
- organise resources for artistic production
- perform quality control of design during a run
- perform soundchecks
- plan audiovisual recording
- prepare personal work environment
- prevent fire in a performance environment
- program sound cues
- record multi-track sound
- record music
- safeguard artistic quality of performance
- set up a multi-track recording
- set up basic recording
- set up equipment in a timely manner
- set up sound reinforcement system
- support a designer in the developing process
- translate artistic concepts to technical designs
- understand artistic concepts
- use audio reproduction software
- use communication equipment
- use personal protection equipment
- use technical documentation
- work ergonomically
- work safely with chemicals
- work safely with machines
- work safely with mobile electrical systems under supervision
- work with respect for own safety
Optional skills
28- adapt existing designs to changed circumstances
- advise client on technical possibilities
- assemble performance equipment
- coach staff for running the performance
- de-rig electronic equipment
- develop professional network
- document your own practice
- draw up instrument setup
- ensure safety of mobile electrical systems
- instruct on set up of equipment
- keep personal administration
- lead a team
- maintain sound equipment
- maintain system layout for a production
- manage personal professional development
- manage teamwork
- monitor developments in technology used for design
- pack electronic equipment
- prepare sound equipment on stage
- prevent undesired changes to sound design
- provide technical documentation
- read musical score
- store performance equipment
- support audio system installation
- technically design a sound system
- tune up wireless audio systems
- update budget
- update design results during rehearsals
No account needed to start
How close are you to being a sound operator?
MyNodes reads your CV once, maps it to this same taxonomy, and shows you which roles you are already closest to and the few skills that would open the most doors. The file is deleted as soon as it has been read.