Acoustic Engineer - Headset Development Position Overview We are seeking a skilled Acoustic Engineer to support the design, development, and validation of advanced headset audio systems. This role will focus on delivering high-performance acoustic solutions, including transducer integration, noise reduction, and system-level audio optimization. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with acoustic testing, modeling, and cross-functional product development. Key Responsibilities Acoustic Design & Development Design and optimize acoustic systems for headsets, including ear cups, enclosures, and transducer integration Develop solutions to meet target performance metrics (frequency response, distortion, and noise isolation) Model acoustic behavior using simulation tools and validate designs through prototype testing Testing & Validation Conduct acoustic measurements including frequency response, SPL, THD, and noise reduction Analyze test data and perform root-cause analysis of performance issues Support development and refinement of passive and active noise cancellation (ANC) systems Product Development Support Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and DSP engineering teams to integrate acoustic solutions Provide recommendations on speaker selection, enclosure geometry, and material selection Support iterative design improvements through prototype builds and lab testing System-Level Engineering Evaluate and tune complete headset acoustic systems (microphone, speaker, and enclosure) Optimize acoustic performance of ear cup structures and associated mechanical components Drive trade-off decisions across audio performance, comfort, and manufacturability Analysis & Documentation Perform root-cause analysis for issues such as distortion, noise leakage, and suboptimal frequency response Document acoustic designs, validation procedures, and test results Communicate findings and recommendations to cross-functional teams and stakeholders Required Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's degree in: Acoustical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Electrical Engineering (with audio focus preferred) 2-8+ years of experience in acoustic design, testing, or development (consumer audio preferred) Hands-on experience with: Acoustic measurement systems (e.g., B&K, Audio Precision, SoundCheck) Small transducers, speakers, and microphones Headset, headphone, or wearable audio product development Preferred Skills Experience with active noise cancellation (ANC) and signal processing Knowledge of electroacoustics, transducer design, and enclosure tuning Familiarity with acoustic simulation tools (e.g., COMSOL, MATLAB) Understanding of vibration, materials, and acoustic damping techniques Experience supporting products from concept through production Technical Skills Acoustics and audio systems design MATLAB and/or C++ Oscilloscopes and lab instrumentation RF amplifiers and audio electronics Headset and wearable audio technologies Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Burnsville, MN. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $40.00 - $60.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
- Medical, dental & vision
- Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
- 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
- Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
- Short and long-term disability
- Health Spending Account (HSA)
- Transportation benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a fully onsite position in Burnsville,MN.
Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jun 23, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:
Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector:
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.