About Company
Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Caversham, Reading, The Lodge Recording Studio has been a cornerstone of the UK music scene for over three decades. Renowned for its unique blend of classic analogue warmth and cutting-edge digital technology, The Lodge provides a creative sanctuary for artists, producers, and engineers alike. Our state-of-the-art facilities, coupled with a passionate and dedicated team, empower us to deliver world-class audio production, mixing, and mastering services across a diverse range of genres. From independent artists to major label projects, we pride ourselves on fostering creativity, achieving sonic excellence, and contributing to the enduring legacy of music. Join a team where your expertise will shape the sound of tomorrow.
Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate Full-Time Audio Mastering Engineer to join our esteemed team at The Lodge Recording Studio. This is a pivotal role for an individual who possesses an exceptional ear, an in-depth understanding of audio physics and psychoacoustics, and a meticulous approach to final audio production. As our Audio Mastering Engineer, you will be the final guardian of sound, responsible for taking mixed tracks and preparing them for distribution across various platforms while ensuring the highest sonic quality, consistency, and impact.
You will work with a diverse range of musical genres and client demands, transforming raw mixes into polished, radio-ready, and commercially competitive masters. This involves a critical balance of technical precision, artistic sensibility, and effective communication. Your daily tasks will include comprehensive audio analysis, intelligent application of equalization, compression, limiting, and stereo imaging, as well as meticulous quality control. You will be expected to maintain our high standards of audio integrity, work collaboratively with artists and producers to understand their vision, and contribute significantly to the overall reputation for excellence that The Lodge Recording Studio is known for. This role requires not just technical proficiency with mastering tools but also a deep musicality and the ability to enhance the emotional content of a recording without altering its core artistic intent. If you thrive in a creative, fast-paced environment and are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sonic perfection, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform high-quality audio mastering for a diverse range of musical genres and projects.
- Apply expert knowledge of EQ, compression, limiting, stereo imaging, and other processing techniques to optimize audio for various playback systems and distribution platforms.
- Conduct critical listening and detailed sonic analysis to identify and address issues in mixes.
- Ensure consistent loudness, dynamic range, and tonal balance across entire albums or projects.
- Prepare master files in various formats (e.g., WAV, AIFF, DDP, MP3) according to industry standards and client specifications.
- Maintain and calibrate mastering equipment, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy.
- Collaborate effectively with artists, producers, and mixing engineers to achieve their artistic vision.
- Implement stringent quality control checks at every stage of the mastering process.
- Stay current with the latest mastering technologies, software, and industry best practices.
- Manage project timelines, deliveries, and archives efficiently and meticulously.
- Provide technical support and guidance on audio preparation to clients as needed.
Required Skills
- Minimum 3 years of professional experience as a dedicated Audio Mastering Engineer.
- Exceptional critical listening skills and a highly trained ear.
- Profound understanding of acoustics, psychoacoustics, and audio signal flow.
- Expert proficiency with industry-standard mastering software and plugins (e.g., Izotope Ozone, FabFilter, Weiss, Brainworx, UAD).
- Strong command of digital audio workstations (DAWs) relevant to mastering (e.g., Sequoia, WaveLab, Pro Tools, REAPER).
- Demonstrable knowledge of various audio formats, codecs, and delivery specifications.
- Meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities in a technical audio context.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients and colleagues.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously under deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent certification in Audio Engineering, Music Production, or a related field.
- Experience with both analog and digital mastering chains and equipment.
- Portfolio showcasing a diverse range of mastered projects.
- Familiarity with DDP authoring and verification software.
- Understanding of copyright, metadata, and ISRC codes for commercial releases.
- Prior experience working in a professional studio environment.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
- Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- Access to state-of-the-art studio facilities and cutting-edge equipment.
- A collaborative and inspiring work environment in a beautiful countryside setting.
- Contribution to impactful and diverse musical projects.
- On-site parking.
- Team social events and creative workshops.
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished Audio Mastering Engineer with a passion for sonic perfection and a desire to contribute to a renowned studio, we invite you to apply. Please submit your CV along with a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and outlining why you are the ideal candidate for this role. We also encourage you to include links to your mastering portfolio or examples of your work. Click on the link below to apply.