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Guitar Setup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Guitar Center

Lead Guitar Technician

Rialto, CA · On-site

$45K - $59K/yr

This role acts as a subject matter expert in guitar set-up and repair while supporting batch ... Conduct timely inspection, setup, and implementation of quality control standards for proprietary ...

Guitar Center

GC Retail Sales Associate Store 460

Austin, TX

$14.50 - $16.75/hr

At Guitar Center, we're not just selling instruments; we're creating experiences. We believe in the ... setup. * Product Knowledge: Be the product expert, keeping up with the latest trends and features ...

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Guitar Setup information

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How much do guitar setup jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for guitar setup in the United States is $18.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Guitar Setup vs Guitar Technician?

AspectGuitar SetupGuitar Technician
CredentialsBasic knowledge of guitar mechanics, often self-taught or through short coursesMore comprehensive certifications or training in guitar repair and maintenance
Work EnvironmentMusic stores, repair shops, or freelance workRepair shops, music stores, or manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on adjusting and fine-tuning guitars for optimal playabilityIncludes broader repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting tasks

Guitar Setup specialists primarily focus on adjusting string height, intonation, and action to improve playability. Guitar Technicians perform a wider range of repairs and maintenance, often requiring more extensive training. While both roles work in similar environments, Guitar Technicians handle more complex repairs, making the two distinct in scope and expertise.

What is guitar setup?

Guitar setup refers to the process of adjusting various components of a guitar to optimize its playability, sound, and comfort for the player. This typically includes adjusting the truss rod, string action, intonation, and sometimes the nut and bridge. A proper setup can help reduce buzzing, make the guitar easier to play, and ensure it stays in tune across the fretboard. Many players get their guitars professionally set up when they buy a new instrument or change string gauges.

What are some common challenges faced in a Guitar Setup role, and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in a Guitar Setup role is diagnosing and resolving issues that stem from a variety of guitar makes, models, and playing styles. Each instrument may react differently to adjustments due to variations in wood, hardware, and previous modifications, requiring a tailored approach for optimal playability. Effective communication with musicians is essential to understand their preferences and expectations, and staying updated with the latest tools and techniques helps maintain high-quality standards. Collaborating with other technicians or luthiers can also provide valuable insights and support, especially when tackling complex repairs or customizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Guitar Setup Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Guitar Setup Technician, you need a solid understanding of guitar construction, stringed instrument maintenance, and basic electronics, often gained through hands-on experience or specialized training. Familiarity with tools such as truss rod wrenches, intonation gauges, and soldering equipment is required, and certifications from luthiery schools can be advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and patience are essential soft skills for achieving high-quality results and customer satisfaction. These skills ensure that guitars are set up for optimal playability and sound, directly impacting the musician's experience and the reputation of the technician.
More about Guitar Setup jobs
What job categories do people searching Guitar Setup jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Guitar Setup jobs are:
Guitar Setup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Guitar Setup job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 8% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 15% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,016 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Guitar Setup / Quality Control Technician

Guitar Setup / Quality Control Technician

Chicago Music Exchange

Chicago, IL • On-site

$17.05/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Guitar Set Up / Quality Control Technician at Chicago Music Exchange
Chicago Music Exchange is looking for a Guitar Setup/Quality Control Technician. In this role you will help process the guitars that go out our doors and into customer's hands, performing basic setups and quality inspections.
Extensive experience is not required. If you have a basic familiarity with guitars, can work well with your hands, and are coachable, we will teach you on the job!
General Responsibilities Include
  • Pick guitar orders from the showroom floor and back stock
  • Perform basic setups, restrings, and quality control for outbound guitars
  • Communicate updates, issues, or other important pieces of information with sales staff and customer service team regarding orders

What you bring
  • Ability to work with your hands and use tools
  • Ability to be coached and take instruction
  • Availability on weekends
  • Ability to lift up to 60 pounds
  • Guitar setup and maintenance knowledge is not required but nice to have. On the job training will be provided!
  • Proficient with technology - (We use MacOS)

Additional Info, Perks, and Benefits
  • Pay $17.05/hr
  • Full time, 40hrs/week, at our store near Lincoln and Belmont. Just steps away from the Paulina Brown Line station!
  • Schedule
    • Exact schedule TBD but days will be 8.5 hours (including 30 minutes for lunch) and at least one weekend day.
  • Health Insurance
    • Medical Insurance: HMO, PPO, and HSA plans available on the 1st of the month following 60 days of employment. HMO and HSA employee premiums are fully paid for by the company.
    • $15k Life Insurance Policy included when you enroll in health insurance at no extra cost.
    • Dental PPO through Blue Cross and Vision Insurance through EyeMed available as add ons.
  • 401k after 12 months of employment with 2% match (must be 21 or older).
  • Paid Time Off
    • 2 hours of paid leave accrued for every 35 hours worked. PTO can be used for any purpose!
  • Commuter Benefits - Pay for transit w/ pre-tax dollars
  • Employee discount on music gear
  • Casual dress code and work environment

Potential employees must pass a background check. All applications are reviewed. No chats, emails or calls, please.

Apply