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Instrument Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

INSTRUMENT TECH

Daly City, CA · On-site

$36.94/hr

Overview The Instrument Tech is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing instrumentation used in providing surgical services. Assists as needed in ...

INSTRUMENT TECH

Daly City, CA · On-site

$36.94 - $39.55/hr

The Instrument Tech is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing instrumentation used in providing surgical services. Assists as needed in running ...

Overview The Instrument Tech is responsible for cleaning, decontaminating, processing, assembling, storing, and distributing instrumentation used in providing surgical services. Assists as needed in ...

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Manteca, CA · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

What We're Looking For: We're seeking an exceptional Hearing Instrument Specialist or Hearing Instrument Specialist Trainee to join our team of dedicated professionals. Are you passionate about ...

Survey Instrument Operator

Fremont, CA · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

Public Works Opening Date: 08/03/2026 Closing Date: 8/24/2026 12:00 PM Pacific Description The City of Fremont's Public Works Department is recruiting for the position of Survey Instrument Operator.

Showing results 21-40

Instrument information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do instrument jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument in California is $29.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by instrument technicians in industrial settings?

Instrument Technicians often work in environments where precision and safety are paramount, such as manufacturing plants or refineries. A common challenge is troubleshooting complex instrumentation systems under tight time constraints, especially during equipment malfunctions or plant shutdowns. Technicians must stay updated with rapidly evolving technology and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. Effective communication with engineers, operators, and other team members is essential to ensure seamless operations and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Instrument vs Technician?

AspectInstrumentTechnician
Required CredentialsCertification in instrument calibration or maintenanceTechnical diploma or associate degree in related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, field sitesManufacturing facilities, maintenance departments
Industry UsageUsed across industries like manufacturing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticalsCommonly employed in maintenance and repair roles within similar industries
Job FocusCalibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting instrumentsInstalling, repairing, and servicing equipment and instruments

In summary, an Instrument primarily focuses on calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of measurement devices, often requiring specialized certifications. A Technician, on the other hand, handles installation, repair, and maintenance of a broader range of equipment, including instruments, usually with a technical diploma. Both roles are vital in industrial settings but differ in scope and specific responsibilities.

What is an instrument technician?

Instrument technicians are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, calibrating, and repairing instruments and control systems used in industrial and manufacturing settings. These instruments may include sensors, gauges, control devices, and monitoring equipment that help ensure processes run safely and efficiently. Instrument technicians often work in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, power generation, and pharmaceuticals. Their tasks are crucial for maintaining product quality, safety standards, and operational efficiency.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or instrumentation engineering, strong analytical skills, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like ISA CAP can be important. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the precise operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex control and instrumentation systems in industrial settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument jobs in California?

The most popular types of Instrument jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Instrument jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrument job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrument job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,921 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Brass Instrument Repair Specialist

The Guitar Center Company

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Guitar Center rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 178 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

373rd of 733 rated retailers


Job description

An instrument repair technician's job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned to the customer in good playing order. A tech can specialize in one type of instrument, or work on multiple types.
Essential Functions (not all-inclusive):
  • Clean and repair of at least one type instrument -- brass, woodwind, orchestral or percussion
  • Provide estimates for repair of instruments
  • Work on a timetable to ensure that work is completed within estimated cost/time.
  • Work on customer owned and retail instruments from the student level to professional instruments
  • Perform work at an hourly rate in excess of the shops hourly rate, and work must be of excellent quality
  • Other duties as assigned, such as assisting at repair clinics or school events.

About Music & Arts
Music & Arts embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. We strive to create lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the almost indescribable happiness that comes from playing an instrument. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion.
The first Music & Arts was located in a small house in Bethesda, MD and run by founder Benjamin O'Brien. When Music & Arts opened its doors in 1952, we offered printed music, music lessons, dance lessons, and art supplies. Ben decided shortly after opening his business that he wanted to focus on music to better serve his customers -- a decision that remains intact to this day.
Since the 1990's, Music & Arts has expanded nationwide through organic growth and a series of acquisitions and mergers with other music dealers. In 2005, Music & Arts joined forces with American Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in Frederick, MD, Music & Arts is now part of the Guitar Center enterprise and comprises 225+ retail stores, 200+ educational representatives, and 250+ affiliate locations.
To join our band, you'll need the following experience:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Apprenticeship or a diploma for an accredited repair school
  • At least 6 years' experience in working on musical instruments on a daily basis preferred

Physical Demand & Work Effort
  • Noise environment
  • Standing, sitting, walking
  • Lifting, pushing and pulling of instruments and cases up to 75 pounds
  • Mild cleaning chemical smell

Love this gig and want to apply?
Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!
Why Us? Here's just some of the rewards:
For our employees who are musicians we offer the unique opportunity of gig leave--take time off to share your music with the world and return to your job after your tour! Guitar Center offers robust benefits and perks, including Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K plus company match, mental health support, paid sick/holiday/vacation time, employee discount program, and tuition reimbursement options.
Pay Rate: $20.00 - $30.00/hr plus commission depending on location, background and experience.
The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any specific pay for any specific employee, which is always dependent on actual experience, education, and other factors. The pay range(s) listed are provided in compliance with state specific laws. Pay ranges may be different in other locations
Music & Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer and provides fair and equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status prohibited under Federal, State, or local laws. All employment decisions are based on valid job- related requirements.
If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website, you may request a reasonable accommodation to express interest in a specific opening. You can request reasonable accommodation by calling 1-818-735-8800 ext. 2862 or by sending an email to recruiting@guitarcenter.com.

What Guitar Center employees say

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About Guitar Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Guitar Center Company embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. Our mission is to develop and nurture lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the joy that comes from creating music. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion. The Guitar Center Company operates through several business divisions. Guitar Center is the world's largest retailer of guitars, amplifiers, drums, keyboards, recording, live sound, DJ, and lighting equipment, with more than 290 stores across the United States. 2014 marked the milestone 50th anniversary of the Guitar Center Company as the organization continues to help people make music from coast to coast.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Westlake Village, CA, US

Year founded

1964