Auer was a founding member of Sky Cries Mary. Auer was also a member of The Squirrels, Lucky Me, Jean Jacket Shotgun and Chariot.
As a solo artist, Auer has released an EP, 61/2, and a full-length record on the label Pattern25 called Songs from the Year of Our Demise.
Auer is also a producer. He has worked with bands such as You Am I, Monostereo, Cheap Star, Love Battery, Redd Kross, Truly, Tad, etc.
In 2003, Auer and Ken Stringfellow released Private Sides, a six-song split EP (Arena Rock Recording Co./Rykodisc).
Auer recently played guitar on the William Shatner record Has Been which was produced and arranged by Ben Folds.
Auer is married to writer/lyricist/musician Michelle Price formerly of the Seattle band Dear John Letters. He has an adopted daughter from that marriage.