Careers Behind the Mic: Popular Jobs in Podcasting and Audiobook Production
Podcasting and audiobooks are no longer niche media, they’re mainstream powerhouses. With global audiences in the hundreds of millions and revenues in the billions, the audio industry is booming. But behind every bestselling audiobook or chart-topping podcast is a team of skilled professionals making it all sound seamless.
If you're drawn to the storytelling, tech, or strategy behind the scenes, here’s a look at the most in-demand jobs in podcasting and audiobook production in 2025.
1. Podcast Producer
The producer is the linchpin of any podcast operation. Think of them as the showrunner, part project manager, part storyteller, part problem solver.
What they do:
Plan episodes, structure content
Coordinate hosts, guests, and production schedules
Guide the creative direction
Manage post-production and publishing
Who it’s for: Creative organizers who can balance storytelling with logistics.
2. Audio Engineer / Sound Designer
An audio engineer ensures everything sounds clean, polished, and immersive, from removing background hum to adding sound effects or scoring.
What they do:
Record, edit, and mix audio
Clean up dialogue, fix levels, reduce noise
Add intros, outros, ads, and music
Create soundscapes (especially for fiction or horror podcasts)
Who it’s for: Tech-savvy perfectionists with a great ear and attention to detail.
3. Narrator / Voice Talent
From podcast hosts to audiobook narrators, professional voices bring audio stories to life.
What they do:
Perform long-form narration or interviews
Bring character and nuance to the read
Often record from home studios
Who it’s for: Strong vocal performers with acting or broadcasting skills.
4. Scriptwriter / Show Writer
Great audio content starts on the page. Writers create everything from interview outlines and research notes to full scripted episodes and intros.
What they do:
Write or adapt scripts for clarity and tone
Research guests or stories
Craft compelling hooks and storytelling arcs
Who it’s for: Writers who can blend structure with a conversational, human tone.
5. Marketing & Audience Growth Manager
Even the best podcast won’t succeed without listeners. Audience strategists help shows find and grow their fan base.
What they do:
Promote episodes across platforms
Optimize SEO, titles, and metadata
Run social campaigns and ad buys
Analyze downloads and engagement
Who it’s for: Data-driven marketers who understand branding and storytelling.
6. Audiobook Director / Producer
In the audiobook world, producers guide the entire recording and production process, often collaborating closely with publishers and narrators.
What they do:
Direct vocal performance during sessions
Manage pacing, tone, and character continuity
Ensure final product meets publishing standards
Who it’s for: People who love books, performance, and collaboration.
7. Distribution & Platform Specialist
Getting your podcast or audiobook in front of the right ears requires technical know-how and a deep understanding of platforms.
What they do:
Upload and manage content across podcast hosts and DSPs (Spotify, Audible, etc.)
Handle RSS feeds and metadata
Analyze performance by platform
Who it’s for: Tech-savvy folks with a knack for troubleshooting and analytics.
8. Hybrid & Emerging Roles
As the industry grows, many roles are overlapping or evolving:
Creative directors for podcast networks
Video editors for podcast clips and YouTube
Soundtrack composers for immersive audio
AI dialogue editors (a growing specialty)
Podcast consultants for businesses or brands launching shows
The rise of podcasting and audiobooks has unlocked a goldmine of creative, technical, and strategic roles. Whether you’re a voice actor, a sound wizard, a savvy marketer, or a brilliant writer, there’s a place for you in the growing audio economy.
It’s not just about what’s on the mic, it’s about everything (and everyone) behind it.