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Apprentice Instrument Technician Jobs in Rochester, NY

A technician can specialize in one type of instrument, or work on multiple types. Duty or ... Apprenticeship or a diploma for an accredited repair school is required * Must be able to read ...

Apprentice Instrument Technician information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$21

$31

$38

How much do apprentice instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice instrument technician in Rochester, NY is $31.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are apprentice instrument technicians?

Apprentice instrument technicians are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced technicians to learn how to install, maintain, and repair instruments and control systems used in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation. Their training typically involves hands-on work with equipment that measures and controls variables like pressure, temperature, and flow. The apprenticeship combines classroom instruction with practical, on-the-job experience, preparing them to become fully qualified instrument technicians.

What is the difference between Apprentice Instrument Technician vs Instrument Technician?

AspectApprentice Instrument TechnicianInstrument Technician
CertificationsNone required initially; on-the-job trainingTypically requires technical certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction, or industrial settingsOperational industrial plants, maintenance facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with installation, maintenance, and learning proceduresPerforming maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of instruments

The main difference between an Apprentice Instrument Technician and an Instrument Technician is experience and certification level. Apprentices are in training, gaining skills on the job, while Instrument Technicians are fully qualified professionals responsible for maintaining and repairing instrumentation systems in industrial environments.

What Does an Apprentice Instrument Technician Do?

An apprentice instrument technician’s duties include installing and repairing electrical and mechanical controls under the supervision of a more senior technician. As an apprentice technician, you are training to use numerous tools to maintain and repair a variety of electrical systems and instruments, such as recording devices, control systems, drives, communication and data systems, counters, and speed indicators. You also learn health and safety operations and responsibilities related to handling industrial electrical equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Instrument Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Apprentice Instrument Technician, you need a strong understanding of electrical and instrumentation principles, typically supported by a relevant technical diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, calibration devices, and industry-specific control systems like PLCs is usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate installation, maintenance, and repair of instrumentation systems critical to operational safety and efficiency.

What are some common challenges faced by Apprentice Instrument Technicians during their training period?

As an Apprentice Instrument Technician, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to the technical complexity of instrumentation systems and mastering the use of specialized diagnostic tools. Balancing hands-on tasks with theoretical learning can also be demanding, especially when working in fast-paced industrial environments. However, most employers provide structured mentorship and safety training to help you progressively build confidence and competence. Developing strong communication skills is also essential, as you'll often collaborate with engineers, electricians, and other technicians.
What job categories do people searching Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings:
Infographic showing various Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings in Rochester, NY as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 16% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,513 per year, or $32 per hour.
Repair Technician

$16 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Music & Arts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

218th of 713 rated retailers


Job description

Technician, Repair Shop:

The purpose of this job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned in good playing order. A technician can specialize in one type of instrument, or work on multiple types.

Duty or Responsibility:

  • Works on rental returned instruments in an efficient & timely manner.
  • Ensuring each instrument is repared according to established quality guidelines
  • Maintain accurate records for production reporting
  • Additional duties as assigned.
About Music & Arts

The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.

Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 200+ retail stores, 120+ educational representatives, and 300+ affiliate locations.

Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Apprenticeship or a diploma for an accredited repair school is required
  • Must be able to read, write, speak, and comprehend English.
  • Must be able to use standard repair shop tooling and equipment
  • 2 years of relevant work experience, working on musical instruments on a daily basis
  • Skilled understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion and orchestral instruments, and the ability to repair same in a timely and efficient manner
Perferred Requirements:
  • 4 years of relevant work experience, working on musical instruments on a daily basis
  • Advanced understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion and orchestral instruments, and the ability to repair same in a timely and efficient manner
Special Attributes:
  • Goal oriented
  • The ability to produce quality repairs in an efficient manner
  • The ability to take advice and supervision from the shop manager
  • Problem solving and technical skills as related to diagnosing and repairing each instrument
  • The ability to self-motivate and work independently
  • Must be able to work with others in a close environment
 Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

Why Us? Here's just some of the rewards:

For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.

Pay Rate: $16.00 - $18.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience.

The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations

Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job‐ related requirements.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by calling 1‐818-735-8800 ext. 2862 or by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.


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