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Instrument Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

$76K/yr

Instrument maker or model maker who performed design or development work on devices fabricated. Additional general engineering experience includes: inspecting and managing on all phases of complex ...

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How much do instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument maker 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 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.

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 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.
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Instrument Maker jobs near you

Engineering Technician

Work with us | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Boulder, CO • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), Office of Satellite Products and Operations (OSPO), with 1 vacancy in Fairbanks, AK; College Park, MD; Silver Spring, MD; Suitland, MD; Asheville, NC; Boulder, CO; Fort Collins, CO; and Madison, WI or Stennis Space Center, MS.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
EDUCATION: There is no positive education requirement for this position.
Examples of qualifying specialized experience for the 0802 series in general 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.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZT-4 or GS-11 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZT-3 or GS-10 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Providing technical support for essential building services and systems including, but not limited to, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and waste management on a routine and emergency basis;
  • Providing support for grounds and road maintenance, as well as site safety programs; and
  • Generating annual maintenance budgets and validating contractor proposals.
Education:Substitution of education for specialized experience is not applicable to this vacancy.Employment Type: OTHER

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