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Instrument Maker Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Instrument Maker III Agency Texas A&M University Department Chemistry Proposed Minimum Salary Commensurate Job Location College Station, Texas Job Type Staff Glimpse of the Job Are you an ...

Instrument Maker information

See Texas salary details

$13

$22

$30

How much do instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument maker in Texas is $22.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.04 and $27.31 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 Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Instrument Maker jobs in Texas are:
Infographic showing various Instrument Maker job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,554 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

Instrument Maker III

Texas A&M University

College Station, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 hours ago


Texas A&M University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

225th of 614 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Job Title

Instrument Maker III

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Chemistry

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Glimpse of the Job

Are you an experienced instrument maker with a passion for precision and innovation? The department of Chemistry is looking for a skilled professional to join our team in a role focused on the design, construction, modification, and maintenance of scientific instruments and research apparatus. In this hands-on position, you'll work closely with researchers and educators to bring complex ideas to life-evaluating needs, crafting custom solutions, and ensuring equipment performs at its best. The ideal candidate will bring extensive machine shop experience, strong proficiency in SolidWorks and Mastercam, and a proven ability to train and supervise others in the construction and repair of scientific equipment. If you're ready to apply your technical expertise in a collaborative, research-driven environment, we encourage you to apply!

Opportunities to Contribute

  • Assess user requirements and research goals to determine specifications for new or modified scientific instruments and apparatus.

  • Design and develop blueprints, schematics, and prototypes using CAD tools to meet functional and performance needs.

  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure instrument designs align with project objectives.

  • Construct, assemble, and test instruments using appropriate materials, tools, and techniques to ensure quality and reliability.

  • Ensure all instruments comply with safety standards and meet required performance criteria.

  • Modify and upgrade existing instruments to improve performance or meet evolving research needs.

  • Diagnose, repair, and calibrate scientific instruments to ensure accurate and reliable operation.

  • Perform routine maintenance and inspections to prevent malfunctions and extend equipment lifespan.

  • Maintain detailed records of all repairs, modifications, calibrations, and maintenance activities.

  • Instruct and train technicians, and research staff in the construction, repair, and maintenance of scientific instruments.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Eight years of related experience in the design, construction, modification, and repair of precision instruments and equipment.

A well-qualified candidate will also possess

  • Knowledge in SolidWorks and Mastercam.

  • Demonstrated skills and abilities of top instrument makers in the nation, which includes training in the programming and operation of multiple types of computerized machines and related equipment required in instrument construction.

  • Extensive machine shop experience including use of equipment and tools.

  • Bachelor's degree in appropriate science or engineering field of study.

  • Ability to work from verbal instructions and rudimentary sketches and diagrams.

  • Working knowledge of diagnostic equipment such as oscilloscope, digital voltmeters, vacuum gauges, voltage and current calibrators, or other equipment or tools used in assigned duties.

Salary: Compensation will be commensurate based on the selected hire's education and experience.

Special Note: This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance.

What You Need to Do

Apply! Submit a resume/cv and cover letter. These documents will help us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Texas A&M University's Department of Chemistry is a cadre of faculty, staff, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, academic advisors, scientific and technical staff, who have a shared purpose of translating our passion for chemistry to young scholars at all levels in many scientific fields. To learn more, please visit our website: http://www.chem.tamu.edu/

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.

  • Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

  • 12-15 days of annual paid holidays

  • Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month

  • Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas

  • Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

  • Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

  • Educational release time and tuition assistancefor completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

  • Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume' or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.


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