Recording engineer jobs are typically classified into four main categories: set up, recording, editing, and producing. All four steps must be completed on each job to move the project from the initial stages of live performance into a finished, recorded product. There are two elements to this type of work: technical and interpersonal. On the technical side, the recording engineer position requires a specific set of skills working with computers, sound recording equipment, and editing tools. The ability to work with a wide range of people and personalities is essential in this role, as the people who typically require the services of a recording engineer are usually musical artists.
In order to qualify for recording engineer jobs, you must have completed a formal training program from an accredited school. There are a limited number of career colleges that offer this type of program, as the number of employment opportunities is fairly small and often restricted to a specific location. Most recording engineer jobs are found in the music or movie production industry.
The first task a recording engineer must do is set up the equipment. As a professional, he or she is responsible for deciding the ideal recording settings and preparing the medium that will be used to record the session. Most engineers are associated with a professional recording or editing studio. The equipment that is required to make a professional quality recording is very expensive to purchase. Freelance engineers can rent a studio by the hour as required.
Before the actual recording session begins, the engineer typically meets with the artist and producer to determine what type of music they want to record, the number of artists, the instruments, and any special effects that may be required. After this meeting, the recording sessions are arranged and the actual recording is completed. It is important to note that one song, commercial, or voice over can take several days to complete, due to the complexity and the need to capture the best possible version.
The editing process is typically one of the most time consuming of all the recording engineer jobs. This aspect of the job involves mixing different recordings of vocals, instrumentals, and other effects to create one file. The timing must be perfect to provide the best possible version of the performance. Many engineers work closely with the producer at this stage, modifying the files as required.
The final product must first undergo a quality assurance process before it is finalized. The artist, producer, and related staff are brought together to listen to various versions and select the one that meets their needs best. Upon selection, the file is finalized and provided to the client for distribution.
