Acoustics consultant
Acoustics consultants help manage and control noise and vibrations in homes, workplaces and other environments.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £22,000 - £35,000
Typical hours (a week): 39 - 41
How to become an acoustics consultant
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
Most employers will expect you to have a degree in:
- acoustics
- maths
- physics
- engineering
You could also do a degree in music technology or environmental science then take further training, like the Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control, offered by the Institute of Acoustics.
University (Entry requirements)
<p>You'll usually need:</p>
<ul class="list-reqs">
<li>5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science</li>
<li>2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics</li>
</ul>
Apprenticeship
You could start by doing an acoustics technician higher apprenticeship, then take further training to become an engineering consultant.
Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more A levels, or equivalent, including maths and science, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You may be able to start work as an assistant or trainee 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 like non-destructive testing, if you do not have academic qualifications.
More info
Further information You can find out more about becoming an acoustics consultant from the Institute of Acoustics.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
- the ability to work well with others
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- to be flexible and open to change
- customer service skills
- knowledge of media production and communication
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
What you'll do
Day to day
<p>Your day-to-day duties could include:</p>
<ul>
<li>carrying out noise assessments on buildings to make sure they meet building regulations</li>
<li>checking noise levels are within legal limits</li>
<li>testing how changes to a building’s design affects sound levels and quality</li>
<li>using computers to find ways of reducing machinery noise and vibration in the workplace</li>
<li>giving specialist advice in legal cases</li>
<li>exploring how sound vibrations affect machinery and structures</li>
<li>designing and working with recording studio and broadcast sound equipment</li>
<li>designing medical equipment, like ultrasound, to help doctors diagnose and treat patients</li>
<li>producing reports, sharing your findings and making recommendations for action</li>
</ul>
Working environment
You could work in an office, at a client's business or in a laboratory. You may need to wear protective clothing.
Career path and progression
Career path & progression
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. With experience, you could become a senior acoustics engineering consultant and register for chartered status through the Institute of Acoustics.
