Hi, I'm Lucas, an Audio Engineer and Sound Mixer based in New York. With over five years of experience in podcasts and digital media, I specialize in dialogue editing and sound design. I love crafting unique auditory experiences and enjoy collaborating with diverse brands to deliver high-quality audio, whether it's for podcasts or branded content.

Lucas Nikkanen

Hi, I'm Lucas, an Audio Engineer and Sound Mixer based in New York. With over five years of experience in podcasts and digital media, I specialize in dialogue editing and sound design. I love crafting unique auditory experiences and enjoy collaborating with diverse brands to deliver high-quality audio, whether it's for podcasts or branded content.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Lucas, an Audio Engineer and Sound Mixer based in New York. With over five years of experience in podcasts and digital media, I specialize in dialogue editing and sound design.
I love crafting unique auditory experiences and enjoy collaborating with diverse brands to deliver high-quality audio, whether it’s for podcasts or branded content.

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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Speech Knowledge Expert (Contract) at Meta
March 1, 2026 - Present
Evaluate speech data for AI training by identifying nuanced differences in pitch, inflection, emotion, and vocal delivery. Develop speech annotation guidelines and perform critical listening evaluations.
Audio Quality Expert (Synthetic Speech Evaluation) at micro1
November 1, 2025 - March 1, 2026
Evaluate short-form synthetic speech clips for production-level quality in an ML audio research environment, applying a calibrated rating system and delivering rationales for model improvement.
Audio Engineer & Composer at Self-Employed
March 1, 2023 - October 1, 2025
Created, mixed, and mastered music and sound design for branded films and advertising campaigns, collaborating with notable brands and maintaining audio-video sync.
Branded and Original Content Production Lead at Spokenlayer
February 28, 2023 - July 10, 2025
Managed Spokenlayer's audio department, overseeing all aspects of production for branded podcasts and ad campaigns. Delegated tasks and maintained clear, organized file structures and timelines to increase efficiency across the production team. Recorded voice talent, mixed and mastered audio, created sound design, and composed music for high-profile projects. Created guidelines of best practices to maintain a high standard of audio quality. Stayed up to date with new technological advancements in the field. Assisted with technical setup and oversaw remote and in-person recordings. Used foley, SFX, and creative audio processing to create believable sonic worlds. Collaborated with clients and department heads on the sonic aesthetics of each project to ensure brand alignment.
Sound Designer, Freelance
June 1, 2022 - Present
Created sound design and music for numerous branded films, ad campaigns, and podcasts. Worked with high-profile clients including Perrier Jouët, O'Neill, Sony Alpha, Esquire, and Shell on projects that have amassed millions of views. Employed a wide variety of creative techniques including foley recording, sample layering, and effects processing. Created and mixed immersive ambisonic soundscapes for out-of-home events. Responded to critical client feedback and provided revisions to meet tight deadlines.
Branded & Original Content Production Lead at Spokenlayer
May 1, 2021 - February 1, 2023
Led end-to-end audio production for podcasts and advertisements, managing recording sessions and ensuring consistent, broadcast-ready quality.
Audio Engineer and Sound Designer at Upwork
March 31, 2021 - July 10, 2025
Provided sound design and audio mixing for podcasts and multimedia projects. Collaborated with clients to understand their vision and delivered customized sound solutions. Implemented innovative sound design techniques to create cutting-edge audio experiences. Awarded Upwork's "Rising Talent" badge.
Concert Sound Technician at Oberlin College
May 31, 2018 - July 10, 2025
Executed live sound reinforcement for various events using industry-standard mixing consoles. Performed soundchecks with live talent to troubleshoot issues and ensure optimal audio quality. Set up and calibrated sound systems, ensuring optimal acoustics and balance. Managed equipment setup, configuration, and breakdowns.

Education

B.A. at Oberlin College
August 1, 2014 - May 31, 2018
Bachelor of Arts at Oberlin College
January 1, 2018 - May 1, 2018

Qualifications

CLIO Cannabis Award Shortlist
January 1, 2021 - December 31, 2021

Industry Experience

Media & Entertainment, Consumer Goods, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality, Energy & Utilities