Acoustics Consultant

Acoustics consultants help manage and control noise and vibrations in homes, workplaces and other environments.

Typical Salary

£18,000 To £50,000

Typical Hours

39 to 41 variable
evenings / weekends away from home

How To Become a Acoustics Consultant

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

College / University

Most employers will expect you to have a degree in:

  • acoustics
  • maths
  • physics
  • engineering
  • 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
  • Apprenticeship

    You could start by doing an acoustics technician higher apprenticeship, then take further training to become an engineering consultant.

  • 2 or more A levels, or equivalent, including maths and science, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
  • Routes into this Career

    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.


    Other Routes

    Other Routes are not listed for this job.

    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

    Day To Day Tasks

    Your day-to-day duties could include:

    • carrying out noise assessments on buildings to make sure they meet building regulations
    • checking noise levels are within legal limits
    • testing how changes to a building’s design affects sound levels and quality
    • using computers to find ways of reducing machinery noise and vibration in the workplace
    • giving specialist advice in legal cases
    • exploring how sound vibrations affect machinery and structures
    • designing and working with recording studio and broadcast sound equipment
    • designing medical equipment, like ultrasound, to help doctors diagnose and treat patients
    • producing reports, sharing your findings and making 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 & 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.

    Volunteering Opportunities

    Volunteering Opportunities are not listed for this job.

    Tips & Information

    Further information

    You can find out more about becoming an acoustics consultant from the Institute of Acoustics.

    Restrictions & Requirements

    Restrictions & Requirements are not listed for this job.

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