Sound operator jobs in Finland
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.
Sound operator - Which skills are essential?
File and document a production in all its phases right after the performance period so that it can be reproduced and all relevant information remains accessible.
Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.
Interpret an artist's explanation or demonstration of their artistic concepts, inceptions and processes and strive to share their vision.
Make the necessary preparations to record music or other sounds on several tracks.
Mix recorded sound from several sources using a mix panel, and edit it to obtain the desired mix.
Observe the show, anticipate and react to possible technical problems, ensuring optimal artistic quality.
Monitor mixing in a live audio situation, under own responsibility.
Control and ensure the quality of design results during a run.
Efficient communication during live performance, anticipate any possible malfunctioning.
Adjust plans to other locations with regards to the artistic concept.
Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.
Work with artists, striving to understand the creative vision and adapting to it. Make full use of your talents and skills to reach the best possible result.
Program sound cues and rehearse sound states before or during rehearsals.
Test the sound equipment of a venue to ensure smooth operation during the performance. Cooperate with performers to make sure the venue equipment is adjusted for the requirements of the performance.
Correct settings or positions for your working instruments and adjust them before starting operations.
Take cues from actions on the stage and interact with them. Decide on the exact timing and procedure in a live environment, in order to produce a fluid and consistent performance.
Operate an audio mixing system during rehearsals or during live performances.
Set up, test and operate different types of communication equipment such as transmission equipment, digital network equipment, or telecommunications equipment.
Mix audio signals from multiple sound sources during rehearsals or in a live situation.
Cooperate with the artistic team in order to facilitate the transition from the creative vision and its artistic concepts to a technical design.
Support designers in the course of the developing process.
Recording and mixing audio signals from different sound sources on a multi-track recorder.
Coordinate human, material and capital resources within artistic productions, based on the given documentation e.g. scripts.
Take responsibility for lifelong learning and continuous professional development. Engage in learning to support and update professional competence. Identify priority areas for professional development based on reflection about own practice and through contact with peers and stakeholders.
Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution for performance and art facility purposes under supervision.
Apply the safety rules according to training and instruction and based on a solid understanding of the prevention measures and risks to your own personal health and safety.
Interpret the artistic intentions of the author.
Edit audio footage using a variety of sofware, tools, and techniques such as crossfading, speed effects, and removing unwanted noises.
Consult with different people and groups who hold a stake in the production. Be on the same page on the practical side of the production, and keep them up to date.
Make the necessary arrangements to record music.
Record a sound or musical performance in a studio or live environment. Use the appropriate equipment and your professional judgment to capture the sounds with optimal fidelity.
Understand and use technical documentation in the overall technical process.
Set up an analogue sound reinforcement system in a live situation.
Operate sound system and audio devices during rehearsals or in a live situation.
Set up a basic stereo audio recording system.
Monitor and follow new trends and developments in specific sectors.
Sound operator - Which skills are useful but not essential?
Identify and explore recent developments in technology and materials used in the live performance industry, in order to create an up-to-date technical background for one’s personal design work.
Lead, supervise and motivate a group of people, in order to meet the expected results within a given timeline and with the foreseen resources in mind.
Prepare and distribute documentation to ensure all people involved in the production receive relevant and up-to-date information.
Adapt your maintenance of sound equipment to prevent undesired changes in the sound balance and design, safeguarding the overall production quality.
Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution independently. Measure and power up an installation.
Prepare and run a technical sound check before rehearsals or live shows. Check instrument setup and ensure correct functioning of the audio equipment. Anticipate possible technical problems during a live show.
Updating the design results based on observation of the stage image during the rehearsals, especially where the different designs and the action are integrated.
Set up, rig, connect, test and tune audio equipment on stage.
Set up, test and operate a complex audio system, based on a given sound concept. This could be a permanent as well as a temporary installation.
Plan the working schedule of a group of people in order to meet all time and quality requirements.
Set up sound, light and video equipment on stage before performance event according to specifications.
Recommend technical solutions, including systems, to the client within the framework of a project.
Give instructions to all team members about how they should run the performance.
Document musical instrument setup.
File and organise personal administration documents comprehensively.
Market one's own strengths in terms of skills and knowledge.
Reach out to and meet up with people in a professional context. Find common ground and use your contacts for mutual benefit. Keep track of the people in your personal professional network and stay up to date on their activities.
Adapt an existing design to changed circumstances and ensure that the artistic quality of the original design is reflected in the final result.
Documenting your own work practice for different purposes like assessment, time management, job application etc.
Read the musical score during rehearsal and live performance.
Set up, check, maintain and repair sound equipment for a live performance establishment.
Establish a workable layout for the system you manage and maintain it for the duration of a production.
Safely dismantle sound, light and video equipment after a performance event. Make sure the equipment is correctly stored away.
Make sure to set up equipment according to deadlines and time schedules.
Take necessary precautions and follow a set of measures that assess, prevent and tackle risks when working at a high distance from the ground. Prevent endangering people working under these structures and avoid falls from ladders, mobile scaffolding, fixed working bridges, single person lifts etc. since they may cause fatalities or major injuries.
Tune up a wireless audio system in a live situation.