Lead Sound Designer — Hybrid, Immersive Audio Innovator

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Access to state-of-the-art audio gear

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sound Designer for immersive experiences in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role blends on-site collaboration with remote flexibility, enabling you to craft atmospheric soundscapes, effects, and original scores that drive narrative and emotional impact.

You will lead a small team, guide audio direction, and work closely with directors, game designers, and artists to integrate audio across platforms, while staying current with audio tech and Dolby Atmos capabilities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Sound Engineering, Music Technology, Film Scoring, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in sound design, with a portfolio in immersive media.
• Expertise in industry-standard DAWs (e.g., Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live) and audio middleware (e.g., Wwise, FMOD).
• Proficiency in audio editing, mixing, mastering, and sound synthesis.
• A proven ability to compose original music and integrate it effectively.
• Experience with spatial audio technologies and Dolby Atmos is a significant advantage.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with the ability to articulate creative concepts.
• Strong understanding of acoustics and psychoacoustics.
• Experience leading and mentoring a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and execution of all sound design elements for immersive projects.
• Create and implement high-quality sound effects, Foley, environmental audio, and voiceovers.
• Compose and direct original music scores to enhance emotional impact and narrative flow.
• Operate and manage digital audio workstations (DAWs) and sound engineering software.
• Collaborate closely with directors, game designers, visual artists, and technical teams to integrate audio seamlessly.
• Conduct sound mixing and mastering to ensure optimal audio quality across various playback systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed audio documentation, including asset lists, cue sheets, and implementation guides.
• Oversee and mentor junior sound designers and audio engineers.
• Conduct field recordings and manage audio asset libraries.
• Stay updated on the latest audio technologies, tools, and techniques in the entertainment industry.

Skills

7+ years experience

Collaboration skills

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Sound Engineering / related field

Tools

Pro Tools

Logic Pro

Ableton Live

Wwise

FMOD

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sound Designer for immersive experiences in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. The role blends on-site collaboration with remote flexibility, enabling you to craft atmospheric soundscapes, effects, and original scores that drive narrative and emotional impact.

You will lead a small team, guide audio direction, and work closely with directors, game designers, and artists to integrate audio across platforms, while staying current with audio tech and Dolby Atmos capabilities.