Interaction Sound Designer (Hardware)
About the Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Interaction Sound Designer to create innovative sonic experiences that enhance how users engage with products and technology. This role is ideal for a creative audio professional who combines outstanding sound design expertise with a deep understanding of user experience principles and interaction design.
You will help define and evolve the sonic identity of next-generation products, crafting sounds that are functional, memorable, and seamlessly integrated into the user journey. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will contribute to experiences spanning hardware, software, wearable technology, and immersive platforms.
Location
Burlingame, CA, Fremont, CA, or Seattle, WA. Remote candidates within the United States may be considered if available to work Pacific Time Zone hours.
Responsibilities
- Design and develop high-quality interaction sounds for consumer products and experiences
- Create intuitive sonic feedback, notifications, alerts, transitions, startup/shutdown sounds, and other UI/UX audio assets
- Support complex sound design initiatives across wearable devices, hardware products, and immersive technologies
- Create prototypes, mockups, and concept videos to communicate audio direction and user experience concepts
- Participate in the entire sound design lifecycle from concept development through implementation, testing, refinement, and release
- Collaborate closely with product designers, engineers, researchers, and other sound designers to ensure successful implementation and consistency
- Test and validate audio implementation across devices and platforms, identifying and resolving issues as needed
- Contribute to audio design systems, standards, and best practices to maintain quality and scalability
- Manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment while meeting project milestones and delivery timelines
Requirements
- 3+ years of experience creating UX-focused audio experiences for mobile applications, hardware products, wearables, or emerging technologies
- Strong hands-on experience designing interaction audio and core UI/UX sound systems
- Demonstrated experience creating original sound design for shipped consumer products
- Expertise in sound synthesis, including creating sounds from scratch using oscillators and synthesis tools
- Advanced proficiency with Pro Tools and/or other professional digital audio workstations (DAWs)
- Strong understanding of human-centered design principles and the role of audio in shaping user experiences
- Experience testing and validating audio implementation within product environments
- Excellent communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills
- Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and organizational abilities
- Ability to rapidly iterate based on feedback and evolving product requirements
- Experience leveraging AI tools for rapid prototyping and concept development
- Proficiency with video editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Avid, or similar tools
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience designing audio for AR, VR, wearable, or other immersive technology products
- Knowledge of design systems and systems-thinking methodologies