Audio Designer - Talent Pool (APAC)

Side; Auckland; On-site; NZD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Side in Auckland, New Zealand is building a talent pool for future Audio Designer roles. Candidates will be considered for project-based opportunities in game development.

With a minimum of 3 years in the industry, the ideal candidate is proficient in audio middleware like Wwise or FMOD and possesses strong storytelling abilities through audio. This role involves designing dynamic audio systems and collaborating with developers to create immersive experiences.

Applicants should be passionate about gaming and sound design, showcasing skills that enhance gameplay through innovative audio solutions.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience as an Audio Designer in the video game industry.
• Demonstrated contribution to at least one shipped title on PC, console, mobile, or VR/AR.
• Proficiency with audio middleware such as Wwise or FMOD.
• Strong storytelling abilities through audio.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement dynamic audio systems and soundscapes to enhance gameplay.
• Collaborate with game designers, artists, and programmers to define audio requirements.
• Record, edit, and mix high-quality sound effects and voice-over content.

Skills

Audio Design

Sound Design

Communication

Collaboration

Tools

Wwise

FMOD

Pro Tools

Logic Pro

Unity

Unreal Engine

Job description

About Side

Side is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative solutions to many of the largest developers and studios around the world. Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has since grown to become a global force with 15+ studios in over a dozen countries across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.

Our industry‑leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization, localization QA, player support, community management, and datasets.

About This Opportunity

Please note, this listing is not for an immediate open position but for our Talent Pool for Co‑Development Roles. By applying, you express interest in being considered for future project‑based opportunities that align with your skills and experience.

These opportunities are contingent on client needs and project availability. As projects are initiated or client proposals are developed, we will review candidates from this pool and contact those who most closely align with the specific requirements of the co‑development opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and implement dynamic audio systems and soundscapes to enhance gameplay and storytelling.
• Collaborate with game designers, artists, and programmers to define audio requirements and integrate assets effectively.
• Record, edit, and mix high‑quality sound effects and voice‑over content.
• Create and manage audio assets using middleware tools like Wwise or FMOD.
• Implement spatial audio, adaptive music systems, and sound design elements to support an immersive experience.
• Debug and optimize audio for performance across multiple platforms.
• Provide innovative audio solutions to creative challenges in gameplay and narrative.
• Maintain consistency in audio quality and style across all aspects of the project.

Requirements

Experience:

• 3+ years of professional experience as an Audio Designer in the video game industry.
• Demonstrated contribution to at least one shipped title on PC, console, mobile, or VR/AR.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency with audio middleware such as Wwise or FMOD.
• Expertise in sound design, recording, editing, and mixing.
• Familiarity with DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, or Reaper.
• Basic understanding of game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity for audio integration.
• Knowledge of audio file optimization and compression techniques.

Creative and Collaborative Skills:

• Strong storytelling abilities through audio.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work effectively in cross‑disciplinary teams.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to delivering exceptional audio experiences.

Passion for Gaming: Genuine enthusiasm for sound design in video games and a strong understanding of the role of audio in enhancing gameplay.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with spatial audio techniques and 3D sound design.
• Familiarity with scripting languages or visual scripting tools for audio systems.
• Knowledge of adaptive music systems and procedural audio generation.
• Background in music composition or voice‑over direction is a plus.

Note: Specific requirements may vary depending on project needs.