Career Suggestion

Acoustics consultant

Acoustics consultants work to reduce unwanted noise in the environment and improve sound quality in buildings, workplaces and equipment.

Average salary (a year)

£28000.0 to £55000.0 (starter to experienced)

Typical hours (a week)

37.0 to 42.0 variable

You could work

evenings / weekends away from home

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • working towards this role

University

Most employers will expect you to have a degree in a subject like:

  • acoustics
  • maths
  • physics
  • engineering

You could do a degree in music technology or environmental science, followed by further training in acoustics or applied acoustics at postgraduate level.

The Institute of Acoustics also offers the Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control , which can help towards gaining membership of the Institute.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

  • 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics

  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

  • equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
  • student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
  • university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/

Work

You may be able to start work as an assistant or trainee acoustics technician and with further training, qualify as an engineer or consultant.

You'll normally need at least 4 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), including two science subjects. A levels or equivalent, like applied science, may be acceptable. Employers may also consider relevant work experience, for example, in non-destructive testing, if you do not have sufficient academic qualifications.

More Information

Professional and Industry Bodies

You can join the Institute of Acoustics for professional development opportunities and to make contacts in the industry.

Further Information

You can find out more about a career as an acoustics consultant from the Institute of Acoustics.

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
  • to be flexible and open to change
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • excellent written communication skills
  • active listening skills
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Day-to-day tasks

As an acoustics consultant, you could:

  • use computer modelling to design high quality acoustics for buildings, like theatres and music venues
  • carry out environmental assessments to make sure noise is within legal limits
  • investigate ways to reduce machinery noise and vibration in the workplace
  • develop sound equipment and features for recording studios
  • design ultrasound tools for use in healthcare, materials testing and welding
  • produce reports for project teams and make recommendations
  • give specialist advice in legal cases

Working environment

You could work in an office, at a client's business or in a laboratory.

You may need to wear protective clothing.

With experience, you could become a project leader, managing the design and development of new products. You might also specialise in a particular area, for example architectural, medical or underwater acoustics technology .

You could become a senior acoustics engineering consultant and register for chartered status through the Institute of Acoustics . Chartered status demonstrates your expertise in the industry.

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