Principal Audio Systems Engineer

Ability to work hybrid from our Santa Monica, CA studio is required.

For nearly 40 years, Naughty Dog has been crafting best-selling, critically acclaimed games that constantly push the boundaries of narrative, gameplay, and technology. Naughty Dog recently released The Last of Us Part II Remastered as well as a current generation remake of The Last of Us Part I for the PS5. We're also proud to say that The Last of Us Parts I & II are now available for the first time on PC. Currently, we’re busy at the kennel working on Intergalactic: The Heretic Prophet, and we'd love to find talented individuals to join us.

Naughty Dog games have long been lauded for their evocative, character-driven stories and attention to detail. We are committed to innovation within our games and as such have curated some of the top creative and technically innovative minds in the industry. We welcome diverse candidates and believe that a broad range of cultural and life experiences contributes to the overall well-being and success of the studio and the titles we craft together.  We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Audio Systems Engineer to join the Studio and support us in making amazing sounding games. This role is integral to ensuring the highest quality audio experience across all our gaming projects.

From the earliest days of Jak & Daxter to The Last of Us Part II and beyond, audio has been, and remains, a cornerstone of our game development.  The ideal candidate will possess a strong technical background with a deep understanding of IT systems engineering, mechanical infrastructure, and audio & video hardware and software. You will manage audio software and hardware solutions, contribute to the design and maintenance of cutting-edge audio facilities, and oversee the integration of conference room technology and video editorial hardware and software pipelines. This is a leadership position requiring excellent collaboration skills and a passion for audio technology in the gaming industry. You will work in our studio’s IT department, but primarily in service to the Audio Department.

Responsibilities:

• Work closely within the Director of IT, as well as the Audio Director to design, implement, and optimize complex audio systems, ensuring high-fidelity audio in game projects

• Lead the development and maintenance of IT infrastructure related to audio, including audio-centric networking and IT systems

• Maintain state-of-the-art ATMOS and surround sound audio rooms, including electrical systems, and acoustic treatment

• Manage and integrate audio hardware and software, including speakers, interfaces, digital audio workstations, software licensing

• Coordinate and maintain conference room technology and ensure seamless integration of A/V systems with game systems

• Oversee video editorial hardware and software technology, ensuring efficient workflows and integration with production pipelines for the Editorial team

• Establish and enforce best practices for audio system design and usage, providing mentorship and guidance to junior engineers and Audio Dept clients

• Troubleshoot and resolve complex audio engineering issues, ensuring minimal disruption to ongoing projects

• Interface with manufacturers, developers, engineers, and project managers to provide resolutions for audio and video systems and to provide support and maintenance of equipment

• Ensure accurate record keeping of assets and maintain asset tracking software and database 

Requirements & Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in Audio Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred. Equivalent industry experience will be considered

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in audio systems engineering, with a strong preference from the film/TV industry or video game industry

• Strong knowledge of IT systems engineering, including networking and infrastructure

• Strong knowledge of network audio signal paths for patch bays (Dante, AES67, RJ45) 

• Proven experience in designing and maintaining mechanical infrastructures related to professional audio production environments. 

• Expertise with professional audio gear (audio interfaces, speakers, acoustics, cabling and soundproofing techniques). 

• Expertise with maintaining digital audio workstations (DAW) using ProTools or Reaper. 

• Expertise with conference room technology and video editorial hardware/software. 

• Excellent project management and communication skills, with experience working with and presenting to highly technical teams. 

• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment. 

Bonus Skills:

• Knowledge of spatial audio technologies and 3D audio rendering

• Familiarity with emerging audio technologies and tools, such as real-time audio synthesis and AI-driven audio solutions

• Understanding of game engines (Unreal Engine, Unity) and their audio integration workflows

• Certifications in IT networking, audio engineering, or project management (e.g., Cisco, Avid, PMP)

• Soldering skills

• Passion for gaming and a deep appreciation for in-game audio experiences

As part of the Naughty Dog application process, candidates should expect to be given a technical interview.