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Guitar Setup Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Guitar Technician

Rialto, CA · On-site

$45.60K - $59.10K/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 ...

Lead Guitar Technician

Rialto, CA · On-site

$45.60K - $59.10K/yr

Conduct timely inspection, setup, and implementation of quality control standards for proprietary ... Guitar playing ability with the ability to tune and evaluate instruments. * Experience in warehouse ...

GC Retail Sales Associate Store 450

Tulsa, OK

$12.50 - $14.25/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 ...

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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$11

$18

$23

How much do guitar setup jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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 jobs can I get as a guitarist?

As a guitarist, you can pursue roles such as session musician, live performer, music teacher, or band member. These jobs often require strong playing skills, musical knowledge, and the ability to work flexible hours in various settings like studios, concerts, or private lessons.

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.

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:
Infographic showing various Guitar Setup job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 8% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,016 per year, or $18.3 per hour.
Quality Inspection - Guitar/Amp Tech

Quality Inspection - Guitar/Amp Tech

YAMAHA GUITAR GROUP

Union City, CA

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Yamaha Guitar Group, home to iconic brands like Line 6, Ampeg, Córdoba, and Guild, is at the forefront of innovation and creativity in designing and building equipment for guitarists. We are looking for an Quality Control Inspector to join the team!

Yamaha Guitar Group is a small company, so our ideal candidate is able to work cross-functionally and collaborate to find the best solutions to complex problems. Our company has a unique culture, including game nights, company “jams”, and corporate sustainability and responsibility efforts to constantly improve our impact globally.

This Role will be based from our Union City office.

You will be responsible for inspecting and testing incoming and outgoing products such as guitars, basses, ukuleles, nylon string guitars and amplifiers. You will also assemble and test amplifiers and speaker cabinets. As this position is in our distribution warehouse you will also assist in various other tasks and schedules as needed. The ideal candidate for this job is passionate about music instruments and equipment. They are detail oriented with a can-do attitude.

Job Responsibilities

  • Inspect incoming and outgoing guitar products to meet specified standards
  • Adjust and repair guitar product as needed to meet specifications
  • Document guitar product status and report failures to QI team
  • Assemble and Test Bass Amplifiers
  • Assemble and Test Bass Speaker Cabinets
  • Assist team in return merchandise repair
  • Maintain work area/shop cleanliness

Experience/Qualifications
What you Bring to the table:

  • Guitar setup skills REQUIRED:
    • Nut cutting
    • Action setting
    • Truss rod adjustment
    • Intonation
    • Soldering
  • Measuring instrument skills:
    • Reading ruler
    • Using calipers
    • Using feeler gauges
    • Using multi-meter
  • Hand tool skills:
    • Electric Drill/Driver
    • Screwdrivers
    • Pliers
    • Cutters
    • Soldering Iron
    • Files
  • Stationary Tool Use:
    • Belt Sander
    • Drill Press
  • Strong musical instrument knowledge is a must
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Prolonged periods of stand and lifting
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at time.
  • Problem Solving mindset
  • Can-Do Attitude
  • Ability to work on own initiative
  • Thorough attention to detail

What We Bring To The Table

  • Comprehensive benefits package including Medical, Vision, Dental, LTD, Life-Insurance and 401k
  • Employee Assistance wellness programs
  • Employee product purchase program
  • Casual dress
  • Vacation, sick-time and personal time
  • 9 Company Holidays
  • 2 Floating Holidays
  • 1 day to volunteer
  • Salary Range is DOE $20/hr - $22/hr

The posted pay range values provide the candidate with guidance on base compensation for the position, exclusive of overtime, and benefits-related compensation, over a range of qualifications that may fit hiring objectives. Yamaha Guitar Group will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience, applicable knowledge, skills and training, among other factors, when preparing an offer of employment.

So if you want to help us define the next generation of music products and instruments, we'd love to hear from you!
Yamaha Guitar Group, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity and E-Verify Employer and provides reasonable accommodations consistent with its legal obligations.