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Instrument Maker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed. * Follows the laboratory ... Self starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker. * Ability to demonstrate ...

... instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed. * Follows the laboratory ... Self- starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker. * Ability to demonstrate ...

... instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed. * Follows the laboratory ... Self- starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker. * Ability to demonstrate ...

... instrument and procedural calibrations and maintenance performed. * Follows the laboratory ... Self- starter with a high initiative, a good problem and decision-maker. * Ability to demonstrate ...

Instrument Maker information

See California salary details

$14

$24

$32

How much do instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument maker in California is $24.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.14 and $28.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Instrument Makers?

Instrument Makers are skilled professionals who design, create, repair, and maintain precision instruments used in scientific, medical, musical, or industrial applications. They work with a variety of materials, such as metal, wood, and plastics, using both hand tools and advanced machinery to craft custom instruments or modify existing ones. Their expertise is crucial in ensuring that instruments function accurately and reliably for their intended purposes. Instrument Makers often collaborate with scientists, engineers, and musicians to meet specific requirements. This role requires a combination of technical skill, creativity, and attention to detail.

How much do instrument techs get paid?

Instrument technicians typically earn an average annual salary of around $45,000 to $60,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the work environment. Salaries can vary based on location, with higher pay often available in regions with a higher cost of living or specialized industries.

What are some common challenges Instrument Makers face when working on custom projects?

Instrument Makers often encounter challenges related to precise measurements and material selection, especially when creating custom or one-of-a-kind pieces. Collaborating closely with clients or musicians to interpret specific needs can add complexity, as the requirements may not always be clearly defined. Additionally, balancing traditional craftsmanship with modern tools and techniques is essential for meeting quality standards and deadlines. Effective communication and a keen eye for detail are crucial to overcoming these challenges and delivering instruments that meet or exceed expectations.

What jobs make $500,000 a year?

In California, high-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include specialized roles such as senior executives, surgeons, anesthesiologists, and certain technology executives. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities, and may involve bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing. Compensation varies based on industry, company size, and individual performance.

How much do musical instrument makers make?

Musical instrument makers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled artisans with specialized tools and certifications can earn higher wages, especially in custom or high-end instrument production environments.

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

To thrive as an Instrument Maker, you need strong mechanical aptitude, precision measurement skills, and a background in machining or engineering, often supported by vocational training or an apprenticeship. Proficiency with tools such as lathes, milling machines, and CAD software—as well as knowledge of materials and quality control systems—is essential. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and patience are vital soft skills for producing high-quality, accurate instruments. These competencies ensure the creation of reliable, precise instruments required for scientific, medical, or industrial applications.

How do you become an instrument maker?

To become an instrument maker, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training or an apprenticeship in woodworking, metalworking, or instrument craftsmanship. Many pursue a technical or vocational program in instrument making, woodworking, or related fields, and develop skills in precision, hand tools, and design. Gaining experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions helps build expertise in crafting and repairing musical or scientific instruments.
What job categories do people searching Instrument Maker jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Instrument Maker jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Instrument Maker job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,374 per year, or $24.2 per hour.

Engineering Technician-DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY with Security Clearance

Department of the Air Force

Edwards, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Duties * Manages and executes Asset Management Plan (AMP)and/or Sub-Asset Management Plans for entire installation. * Integrates and synchronizes Operations Flight workforce for preventative maintenance * Integrates and synchronizes Operation Flight contract project development, review, construction, and integration and warranty management pertaining to respective portfolio Requirements Conditions of employment * U.S. Citizenship is required * Males must be registered for Selective Service, see Legal and Regulatory Guidance * This posn is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program * For more information on Acq Demo please go to DoD AcqDemo Homepage http://acqdemo.hci.mil/ and Fact Sheet http://acqdemo.hci.mil/faq.html * Recruitment incentives may be authorized * Position may require an appropriate security clearance * Employee must maintain current certifications * Position may be subject to random drug testing * Employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, to include evenings, weekends and/or holidays * Shift work and emergency overtime may be required * Disclosure of Political Appointments * All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. * This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur. * Recurring lifting of light to moderately heavy items weighing less that 50 pounds such as testing or measuring equipment. * Long period of standing, walking over rough, uneven rocky or slippery surfaces, recurring bending, crouching, stooping, stretching climbing. * May act as a project liaison with Army Corps of Engineer or commercial aircraft approximately 5 days per year * Physical required Qualifications Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, . BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving applying a practical knowledge of the: * Methods and techniques of engineering or architecture; and * Construction, application, properties, operations, and limitations of engineering systems, processes, structures, machinery, devices, and materials. Specialized Experience (for positions at GS-4 or equivalent and above): Examples of qualifying specialized experience include technical work in: drafting, surveying construction estimating, physical science, mathematics, aerospace, architecture, chemicals, electrical or mechanical systems, mining, petroleum, or nuclear systems. Experience in a trade or craft may be credited as specialized experience when the work provided intensive knowledge of engineering principles, techniques, methods, and precedents. Examples are trade positions with substantial developmental, test, or design responsibilities such as: * Planner and estimator who analyzed designs for production purposes. * Instrument maker or model maker who performed design or development work on devices fabricated. In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below: SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower broadband NJ-02, equivalent to the next lower grade GS-08 or equivalent in other pay systems. Specialized experience in basic advanced Electrical Engineering knowledge to selected non-complex and complex construction projects or portions of projects that include design, cost estimating and construction management of assigned projects.. NOTE: Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. Ideal Candidate: Our ideal candidate is someone with integrity who takes pride in their work but also is a TEAM player! Someone that has worked in the industry/trade with multiple years of experience in either: Structures, HVAC, Plumbing, Fire Alarms, Water, Wastewater, and/ or Liquid Fuels. Adherence to all facility work rules and housekeeping/cleanliness. Someone with knowledge of asset management and preventative maintenance. Demonstrates working knowledge and adherence to construction requirements. Excellent time management and organizational skills to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Knowledge is Asset Management Principles as it applies to operations management and requirements and optimization activities 2. Knowledge of CE Work control, customer service, operations/maintenance management procedures, and function and procedures of CE work centers. 3. Knowledge of AFIs, practices, and procedure pertaining to CE operations and ability to research, analyze, interpret, and apply rules, regulations, and procedures in a variety of situations, and recommend timely and economical solutions. 4. Knowledge of Computerized Maintenance Management and Sustainment Management System, system capabilities, economic usage to effectively accomplish assigned functions, and proficiency in Microsoft Office products (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) 5. Knowledge of program planning and budgeting cycles, financial control, and budget systems; work classifications and the regulatory and statutory restrictions on the expenditures of appropriated and non-appropriated funds; automated data processing system capabilities; real property management; and economic usage to effectively accomplished assigned functions 6. Knowledge of analytical and diagnostic methods, procedure, and principles and surveying methods, equipment and techniques of measurements to identify project requirements. 7. Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, clearly, concisely, with technical accuracy and maintain good working relations PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education ARE YOU USING YOUR EDUCATION TO QUALIFY? If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Additional information This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in selection. This job announcement may close at any time - apply now! This is an acquisition demonstration project position NJ equivalent to a GS-09 to GS-11. is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click . If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click .