Lead Sound Designer for Immersive Experiences

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental and vision coverage

Paid time off

Professional development

Access to state-of-the-art audio gear

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sound Designer for our client in Pietermaritzburg. You will direct the sound design team, shaping immersive audio for interactive entertainment projects and virtual experiences.

You will oversee recording, editing, mixing, and integration with visuals, collaborating with developers and directors. The role requires 5+ years in entertainment or gaming, strong leadership, and expertise with DAWs, Wwise/FMOD, and engines like Unreal/Unity.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Sound Designer with leadership in projects.
• Strong project management capabilities.
• Proficiency with DAWs (Pro Tools, Cubase, Reaper).
• Expertise with audio middleware (Wwise, FMOD) and game engines (Unreal, Unity).
• Excellent understanding of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and audio engineering.

Responsibilities

• Lead the sound design team, providing creative direction and mentorship.
• Develop and execute sound design strategies for interactive installations, VR, and digital performances.
• Record, edit, and mix effects, Foley, dialogue, and ambience.
• Collaborate with developers, directors, and artists to integrate audio with visuals and narrative.
• Design and implement dynamic audio systems using Wwise or FMOD.
• Manage audio asset pipelines and workflow efficiency.
• Conduct A/B testing and iterate based on feedback and performance metrics.
• Stay updated on new audio technologies and entertainment trends.
• Oversee mixing and mastering across platforms.
• Troubleshoot audio technical issues.

Skills

Lead experience

Project management

DAWs

Sound design principles

Listening skills

Communication

Portfolio management

Audio programming

Sound synthesis

Acoustics

Education

Audio Engineering degree

Equivalent professional experience

Tools

Wwise

FMOD

Unreal Engine

Unity

Pro Tools

Cubase

Reaper

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary entertainment company, is seeking an exceptional Lead Sound Designer to join their dynamic team in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This pivotal role involves conceptualizing, creating, and implementing innovative soundscapes that enhance user engagement and bring virtual worlds to life. You will be instrumental in shaping the auditory identity of groundbreaking projects, working at the forefront of immersive entertainment technology. This is a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a growing industry, contributing to projects that will captivate audiences. The role demands a blend of artistic vision, technical proficiency, and strong leadership qualities, ensuring the highest standards of audio quality and creative execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the sound design team, providing creative direction and mentorship.
• Develop and execute comprehensive sound design strategies for various entertainment projects, including interactive installations, virtual reality experiences, and digital performances.
• Record, edit, and mix sound effects, Foley, dialogue, and ambient sounds to create rich and believable audio environments.
• Collaborate closely with game developers, directors, and artists to ensure audio integrates seamlessly with visual and narrative elements.
• Design and implement dynamic audio systems using industry-standard middleware (e.g., Wwise, FMOD).
• Manage audio asset pipelines, ensuring efficient workflow and organization.
• Conduct A/B testing and iterate on sound designs based on feedback and performance metrics.
• Stay abreast of the latest audio technologies and trends in the entertainment sector.
• Oversee sound mixing and mastering to ensure optimal quality across various platforms.
• Troubleshoot and resolve audio-related technical issues.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Sound Designer, with at least 5 years in the entertainment or gaming industry.
• Demonstrable experience in a lead or senior role, with strong project management capabilities.
• Proficiency in Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Cubase, or Reaper.
• Expertise with audio middleware (Wwise, FMOD) and game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity).
• Excellent understanding of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and audio engineering principles.
• Experience in field recording, Foley, and ADR.
• Strong knowledge of sound synthesis and audio programming.
• Ability to interpret creative briefs and translate them into compelling auditory experiences.
• Exceptional listening skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration.
• A portfolio showcasing a range of high-quality sound design work is essential.
• Relevant degree or equivalent professional experience in Audio Engineering, Music Technology, or a related field.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary of ZAR.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous paid time off and holiday schedule.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Access to state-of-the-art audio equipment and facilities.
• Collaborative and creative work environment.
• Potential for career advancement within a growing company.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Engaging and challenging projects that push creative boundaries.
• Team-building activities and social events.