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Instrument Maker Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Process Engineer - Federal

Denver, CO · On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

... maker with tangible and intangible benefits. You'll create amazing, for clients and for yourself ... Independently develop PFDs, P&IDs, complete equipment sizing and specifications, develop instrument ...

... 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 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 Colorado salary details

$15

$25

$34

How much do instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument maker in Colorado is $25.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.49 and $30.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrument maker?

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.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an instrument maker?

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.

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.

How do you become an instrument maker?

To become an instrument maker, individuals 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, attention to detail, and familiarity with tools and materials used in crafting musical or scientific instruments.

How much does an instrument maker make?

An instrument maker typically earns between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and specialization. Skilled instrument makers often work with precise tools and may require certifications or apprenticeships to advance their earnings.

What are popular job titles related to Instrument Maker jobs in Colorado?

For Instrument Maker jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Instrument Maker job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,672 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Senior Process Engineer - Federal

Burns & McDonnell

Denver, CO • On-site

$107K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Burns & McDonnell rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction


Job description

At Burns & McDonnell, you're in control of your career potential. And with more than 350 service specialties, you can grow within the company. Our formula is simple: hire the best people, find out what they enjoy and are great at, and help them succeed. You'll lead or support important projects for interesting clients and reap the rewards of employee-ownership — a difference maker with tangible and intangible benefits. You'll create amazing, for clients and for yourself. If you are passionate about the work you do and want to keep growing in your career, we want to talk to you!

Our Federal group is looking for a Senior Process Engineer to support our growing work in DOE and DOD production and nuclear facilities. The successful candidate will:

  • Have experience in project execution, from initial process studies, support of project cost estimates, through detailed design into EPC project execution.
  • The candidate should have a clear understanding of the steps of project development and level of detail required in each step of project development.
  • Independently develop PFDs, P&IDs, complete equipment sizing and specifications, develop instrument process data and specifications.
  • Demonstrate leadership ability at the discipline level on a multidiscipline project team.
  • Develop process models with commercially available programs (Aspen, Hysys, ChemCAD) or by building a custom model in Excel.
  • Support business development efforts by developing engineering estimates and supporting proposal development.
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from accredited program. 
  • Minimum 7 years related experience (completion of master's degree in related field may be substituted for one year of experience).
  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills.  Strong analytical and problem solving skills.
  • Previous consulting experience preferred. 
  • Professional Engineer strongly preferred. 
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoE or DoD Security Clearance.
  • This position requires an experienced and competent individual capable of successfully solving difficult problems that require adaptation and modification of standard techniques, procedures and criteria. 
  • Must be capable of devising new approaches to problems encountered. 
  • The position may require travel to support projects, estimated at 25%.

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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