Audio programmer
Develop and implement software solutions for audio projects.

About the job
What it's like
Audio programmers create sound effects and compose music for different games.
You’ll have the opportunity to work with the latest sound technology and generate emotional chords to enhance a storyline.
Your tasks might include:
developing and process a range of gaming sound effects
improving the atmosphere of a game through music
enhancing the player experience
researching and staying up to date with industry trends and advancements

Hours
You'll often work standard office hours, but you may be required to work more in the lead-up to a product launch.

Environment
You can work anywhere from game development studios to computer science labs. Some developers can work from home
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Digital technologies Creative
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- working with technology
- problem solving
- networking
- innovative
- implementing ideas
- cooperating
- analysing

Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Maths (Mathematics)
Computing Science
Physics
Music
Foundation Apprenticeship: Creative and Digital Media
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are a number of ways to get qualified for this job through college, university or work-based qualifications, such as apprenticeships.
Audio programmers will often have HNDs and degrees in subjects such as:
music
computer science
software engineering
An apprenticeship is another route into this career. These could include:
Having experience with programming languages such as Java, Python or C++ can be beneficial.
You may be able to build experience working with audio equipment through volunteering. Search opportunities on Volunteer.scot.
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Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Audio programmer'
