Acoustics consultant
Acoustics consultants help manage and control noise and vibrations in homes, workplaces and other environments.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
Your day to day tasks will depend on the type of acoustics you work in. For example you could:
- carry out noise assessments on buildings to make sure they meet building regulations
- check noise levels are within legal limits
- test how changes to a building's design affects sound levels and quality
- use computers to find ways of reducing machinery noise and vibration in the workplace
- give specialist advice in legal cases
- explore how sound vibrations affect machinery and structures
- design and work with recording studio and broadcast sound equipment
- design medical equipment, like ultrasound, to help doctors diagnose and treat patients
- produce reports, share your findings and make recommendations for action
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
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.
What it takes
Skills and 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
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
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.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and physics
More Information
You could start by doing an acoustics technician higher apprenticeship, then take further training to become an engineering consultant.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more A levels, or equivalent, including maths and science, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
More Information
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.
Further information
You can find out more about becoming an acoustics consultant from the Institute of Acoustics.
Suggested videos
Coffee With is in early release mode with a limited number of videos. New videos are being added every week, so please check back for updates.
External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.