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Instrument Builder Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Corin Group

Instrument Kit Associate

Raynham, MA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Build complete and functional instrument sets in a timely manner. * Process instrument set returns and individual instruments in a timely manner. * Proactively communicate set-down needs and ...

coringroup

Instrument Kit Associate

Raynham, MA

$19 - $21/hr

Build complete and functional instrument sets in a timely manner. * Process instrument set returns and individual instruments in a timely manner. * Proactively communicate set-down needs and ...

Corin Group

Instrument Kit Associate

Raynham, MA · On-site

$19 - $21/hr

Build complete and functional instrument sets in a timely manner. * Process instrument set returns and individual instruments in a timely manner. * Proactively communicate set-down needs and ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$18.60 - $23.25/hr

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$18.60 - $23.25/hr

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$18.60 - $23.25/hr

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

University Health

Instrument Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Instrument Techs are asked to perform the four basic departmental functions (decontamination, prep ... Techs are expected to build and maintain a comprehensive body of knowledge with respect to the ...

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Instrument Builder information

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How much do instrument builder jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument builder in the United States is $24.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrument builder?

Instrument builders are skilled professionals who design, construct, repair, and maintain musical instruments or scientific instruments. Their work involves selecting appropriate materials, using specialized tools, and applying precise techniques to ensure the instrument meets desired specifications. Instrument builders may specialize in specific types of instruments, such as stringed, wind, or electronic instruments, or work with devices used in laboratories and research settings. They often collaborate with musicians, researchers, or engineers to create high-quality, functional instruments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrument builder?

To thrive as an Instrument Builder, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision handcrafting skills, and a background in electronics or engineering, often supported by relevant vocational training or an associate degree. Familiarity with tools such as lathes, soldering equipment, CAD software, and quality control systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the accurate assembly, calibration, and repair of high-quality instruments that meet strict industry standards.

What are the typical challenges faced by an instrument builder when assembling complex scientific instruments?

Instrument Builders often encounter challenges such as interpreting detailed technical schematics, ensuring precision in assembling small or delicate components, and troubleshooting unexpected issues during the build process. Successfully navigating these challenges requires patience, attention to detail, and strong problem-solving skills. It's also common to collaborate closely with engineers and quality assurance teams to meet exacting standards and project timelines.

What is the difference between Instrument Builder vs Instrument Technician?

AspectInstrument BuilderInstrument Technician
CredentialsTypically requires technical training or apprenticeship in instrument assemblyRequires technical certifications or associate degrees in instrumentation or electronics
Work EnvironmentPrimarily in manufacturing or assembly facilitiesOften in industrial plants, maintenance, or field service
Job FocusAssembling, constructing, and testing instrumentsMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing instruments

Instrument Builders focus on assembling and testing new instruments, often in manufacturing settings, while Instrument Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and repairs in operational environments. Both roles require technical skills, but their daily tasks and work settings differ significantly.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation jobs, including instrument builders, are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. Skilled workers with knowledge of control systems, calibration, and troubleshooting are especially sought after, often requiring technical certifications and experience with specialized tools. The demand can vary by region and industry growth trends.
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Instrument Builder jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrument Builder job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,042 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

LEAD ENGINEER - PRINCIPAL ENGINEER - Instrument Mechanical Engineer - Boulder, CO

Boulder, CO • On-site

SWRI
See more jobs at SWRIexternal

$114K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 hours ago

Job description

  • Produce complex Mechanical Engineering designs and analysis in support of space instrument development, prototype development and proposal efforts.
  • Experience in space instrument structures, optics, thermal, and or mechanism design.
  • Produce mechanical designs using CAD software including layouts, drawings, bill of material development, mass properties management, integration and test plans, procedure development, verification and test plans.
  • Perform mechanical analysis including structural analysis, mechanism analysis, and/or orbital thermal analysis.
  • Lead and support Assembly Integration and Test activities including production paperwork, non-conformance management and disposition.

  • Develop complex mechanical designs for instruments, prototype development, and proposals including production of CAD models, drawings, and test procedures.
  • Develop integration and test plans, analyze test data to verify instrument performance.
  • Lead and advise on direct hands-on work with spaceflight optical instrument build, integration and testing.
  • Provide mentoring, training and leadership to early career engineers.

  • Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related Engineering degree field with directly related experience.
  • 10 - 15+ years: Spaceflight instrument design and analysis. Proficient in one or more of the following: CREO, Solid Works, ANSYS, NASTRAN, and Thermal Desktop.
  • 10 - 15+ years: Spaceflight component testing and verification.
  • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

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