What Is an Acoustics Engineer?
Acoustic engineers design, control, and analyze sounds and vibrations. It’s common for them to provide consultation on sounds and vibrations within various environments. In many cases, they work alongside other professionals to improve the efficiency of projects.
What Do Acoustic Engineers Do?
The job requirements for an acoustic engineer may vary depending on the industry they are working in. Common responsibilities include:
Noise Control Management
Acoustic engineers work alongside construction contractors to enhance the sound quality in venues where events are held. Part of this job is working to reduce the amount of sound that escapes from the property, ensuring that it’s in full compliance with noise ordinances.
They commonly serve as consultants on other projects where noise has the potential to be a disruptive source as well, such as commercial areas and highways. It’s their job to monitor, measure, and reduce noise pollution.
Controlling the Spread of Sound Inside a Building
Sound natural travels throughout interior spaces, which can be an issue for structures like offices or residential buildings. Acoustic engineers analyze a space and offer suggestions or solutions for noise control, including recommendations for building materials or property layouts.
There’s also been an increased need for acoustic engineers within the entertainment industry. Because acoustic engineers have in-depth knowledge of sound and vibrations, they can help other professionals create recording studios with the highest possible sound quality, you may want to learn about structure borne noise to help minimize sound.
Equipment Consultation
Acoustic engineers help to create equipment within many different industries, including the healthcare and entertainment industries. As an example, they often assist with the design of sound systems. These professionals also play a vital role in the development of technology involving sound and vibrations, including ultrasounds and hearing aids.
How to Start a Career as an Acoustic Engineer
If you’re interested in becoming an engineer, you’ll need to complete the following steps:
1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree
In order to qualify for acoustic engineering positions, you’ll need to secure a degree. Some workers in this field complete a Bachelor of Engineering, but other types of degrees involving maths and physics can be a viable option as well. Your studies should give you the knowledge you need to begin work in this field. You may want to look at current job postings to see the qualifications that prospective employers are looking for. Some employers may want candidates with a Master’s Degree.
2. Consider an Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is another way to start work within this field. By becoming an apprentice to a qualified engineer, you’ll have the chance to work alongside a professional and build skills and knowledge over time.
It’s important to remember that an apprenticeship is only the first step towards becoming an acoustics engineer. It’s likely that you’ll need to pursue additional training in the field after your apprenticeship is complete.
3. Build Job Experience
Having relevant experience can make you a more attractive candidate to prospective employers. Employment that is related to the field can be a way to enhance your curriculum vitae.
It’s possible to build experience in the field even when you’re completing schooling. As an example, you could work as an assistant or seek out an entry-level position in the field. This will give you the opportunity to work alongside more experienced engineers and make valuable industry connections.
Education is invaluable, but there are some skills that you can only obtain while on the job. Hands-on experience can help to prepare you for work in the field and can help you to confirm that this is the type of work you’d like to do.