Acoustic Consultant
What is the work like?
As an acoustic consultant (also known as an acoustician or acoustic engineer) you would help to manage, regulate and control the noises and vibrations that surround us in the home, the workplace and the environment.
You could work in a variety of fields, for example construction, noise pollution, the media or medical technology. Your exact duties would depend on your area of work but could include:
- carrying out noise assessments on buildings to make sure sound insulation methods and materials meet Building Regulations
- performing environmental noise surveys to check levels are within acceptable limits of legislation, such as the Noise at Work Act
- testing how sound behaves in buildings, such as concert halls, theatres or cinemas, and how changes to the building's design affects sound levels and quality – known as auralisation
- using computer modelling to design plans aimed at reducing or eliminating machinery noise and vibration in the workplace
- acting as an advisor in legal proceedings, for example noise nuisance disputes or medical cases like Vibration White Finger
- investigating the effects of sound vibrations on machinery and structures, such as bridges, aircraft or household goods
- designing and working with recording studio and broadcast sound equipment
- designing medical instruments like ultrasound equipment to help doctors diagnose and treat patients.
In most roles, you would be expected to use computer programs to analyse data and produce reports, detailing your findings together with recommendations for action.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
Most jobs would require you to have a degree-level qualification. Relevant degrees include:
- acoustics
- physics
- environmental science
- mechanical engineering
- construction-related subjects.
You could specialise in a particular area, for example transport or building acoustics by completing a postgraduate degree through the Institute of Acoustics (IOA).
Alternatively, you may be able to start as an assistant or trainee technician, then, with further training, eventually qualify as an engineer or consultant. To start, you would normally need at least four GCSEs (grades A-C), including two science subjects, maths and English, or equivalent qualifications like the BTEC Certificate or Diploma in Applied Science.
Employers may consider alternative qualifications or relevant work experience, such as non-destructive testing, if you do not have academic qualifications.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
See the IOA website for more information about degrees, postgraduate courses and professional qualifications.
What further training and development can I do?
You would usually start on a structured graduate training scheme, working under the supervision of experienced staff.
You could take professional development training offered by the IOA, including:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control
- Certificate of Competence in Workplace Noise Risk Assessment (CCWPNRA)
- Certificate of Competence in Environmental Noise Measurement (CCENM)
- Certificate in the Management of Occupational Exposure to Hand Arm Vibration (CMOEHAV).
You can do the Diploma in Acoustics and Noise Control by distance learning. See the IOA website for further details and a list of course providers.
Where can I go for more information?
77A St Peter’s StreetSt Albans
Hertfordshire
AL1 3BN
Tel: 01727 848195
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- The starting salary for newly-qualified staff is around £18,000 to £22,000 a year.
- With experience, this can rise to £35,000 a year.
- Senior acoustics consultants may earn in excess of £50,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You could work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, or on a shift system, depending on the type of project. Some projects could include working unsocial hours or away from home.
Your job would involve a combination of office, lab and sitework, depending on the contract.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a creative and practical approach to solving problems
- the ability to explain design plans clearly
- good IT skills for planning and testing designs
- a flair for maths and science
- an understanding of environmental legislation and standards
- good business awareness and negotiating skills
- good project management and organisational skills
- strong spoken and written communication skills.
What opportunities are there?
You could find work with a range of organisations including building and civil engineering firms, local authorities, sound recording studios, the NHS, aerospace companies and universities.
With training and experience, you could gain chartered status with the IOA. You may need chartered status to gain promotion to positions such as senior acoustics engineer.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
Institute of Acoustics
SCENTA
JustEngineers.net
Engineering Jobs Network
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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