Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Vocal Performance Technician
💰 $45,000 - $75,000
🎯 Role Definition
The Vocal Performance Technician is responsible for supporting live and recorded vocal performances by managing audio systems, ensuring vocal clarity, monitoring sound quality, and assisting performers and producers with technical and performance-related requirements. This role combines expertise in sound engineering, vocal performance, and live production to deliver high-quality vocal experiences.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Audio Technician
- Music Production Assistant
- Sound Engineer
Advancement To:
- Lead Vocal Engineer
- Studio Manager
- Music Production Supervisor
Lateral Moves:
- Live Sound Engineer
- Recording Studio Technician
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Set up, calibrate, and maintain microphones, audio equipment, and recording systems for live and studio vocal performances.
- Monitor and adjust vocal levels during rehearsals, live performances, and recordings to ensure optimal sound quality.
- Assist performers with vocal techniques, mic placement, and performance monitoring.
- Operate audio mixing consoles and digital audio workstations (DAWs) during performances and recording sessions.
- Troubleshoot technical issues with vocal equipment, software, and audio systems in real time.
- Collaborate with sound engineers, music directors, and performers to achieve desired vocal sound and clarity.
- Conduct soundchecks to test equipment and adjust settings for acoustics, venue size, and performance type.
- Maintain and repair vocal and audio equipment, ensuring operational readiness for all performances.
- Implement audio effects and processing as directed by producers or performance directors.
- Record, edit, and mix vocal tracks for live or studio projects.
- Document technical setups, signal chains, and performance settings for future sessions.
- Ensure all performances meet safety and regulatory requirements for audio and stage equipment.
- Manage inventory of microphones, cables, and accessories, coordinating replacements and upgrades.
- Train performers and junior technicians on audio equipment and optimal vocal setup techniques.
- Collaborate with lighting and stage production teams to ensure cohesive performance experiences.
- Participate in post-production editing, including noise reduction, pitch correction, and vocal enhancement.
- Support virtual performances and remote recording setups with appropriate audio technology.
- Evaluate and recommend new audio technology, software, and hardware for vocal applications.
- Provide technical support during tours, live broadcasts, and special events.
- Maintain a high standard of audio quality and performance consistency across all venues and projects.
Secondary Functions
- Support ad-hoc analyses of sound quality and performance metrics.
- Contribute to long-term vocal performance strategy and audio production planning.
- Collaborate with business units or production teams to implement workflow improvements.
- Participate in research and experimentation with new vocal and audio technologies.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Microphone setup, calibration, and maintenance
- Audio mixing console operation
- Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) proficiency (Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live)
- Sound editing, recording, and mixing
- Vocal monitoring and live sound reinforcement
- Troubleshooting audio equipment and signal chains
- Knowledge of vocal processing and effects
- Audio signal routing and patching
- Acoustic analysis and room tuning
- Equipment inventory management and maintenance
Soft Skills
- Strong communication and collaboration
- Attention to detail and auditory precision
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Time management and multi-tasking
- Adaptability in live performance environments
- Team leadership and mentoring
- Patience and interpersonal skills
- Creativity in sound design
- Professionalism and work ethic
- Active listening and feedback skills
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience in Audio Engineering, Music Technology, or Performance Arts
Preferred Education:
Bachelor’s Degree in Audio Engineering, Music Production, or Vocal Performance
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Audio Engineering
- Music Technology
- Performing Arts
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
2–5 years in audio engineering, vocal performance support, or live sound operations
Preferred:
Experience with live performance setups, studio recording, sound mixing, and vocal production across multiple music genres