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Jewelry Apprentice Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Madison, WI · On-site

$24/hr

Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style ... Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we've got your friends and family covered ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Madison, WI · On-site

$24/hr

Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style ... Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we've got your friends and family covered ...

STUDS

Apprentice Piercer

Madison, WI · On-site

$24/hr

Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style ... Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we've got your friends and family covered ...

All JobsJewelry Apprentice JobsJewelry Apprentice Jobs in Madison, WI

Jewelry Apprentice information

See Madison, WI salary details

$12

$22

$36

How much do jewelry apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for jewelry apprentice in Madison, WI is $22.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.41 and $25.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a jewelry apprentice?

Jewelry apprentices are individuals who are training under the guidance of experienced jewelers to learn the skills needed in jewelry design, creation, repair, and maintenance. Apprenticeships typically combine hands-on, practical experience with classroom instruction. During the apprenticeship, individuals learn techniques such as stone setting, metalworking, engraving, and polishing. The goal is to develop proficiency in the craft and prepare for a career as a professional jeweler.

What does a jewelry apprentice do?

The job duties of a jeweler apprentice revolve around the repair, setting, and sale of jewelry. In an apprenticeship, you work under the direct supervision of a professional jeweler. The jeweler may train you in repair, setting, or polishing of diamonds, gems, or other precious metals and stones. You may spend most of your time at a jeweler’s bench repairing pieces. In a retail environment, your responsibilities include interacting with customers who are interested in purchasing or repairing jewelry. An apprentice also learns how to use jeweler’s tools, such as lasers, pliers, jewelry molds, and polishers. You can focus on a specialty, such as antique jewelry restoration, diamond cutting, or stone setting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a jewelry apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Jewelry Apprentice, you need a foundational understanding of jewelry design, basic metalsmithing, and hand-tool proficiency, often gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship program. Familiarity with tools such as jeweler’s saws, files, soldering equipment, and potentially CAD software is important, along with adherence to safety protocols. Attention to detail, creativity, patience, and good manual dexterity are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality pieces, ensuring safety, and progressing effectively in the jewelry-making profession.

What are some common challenges jewelry apprentices face when transitioning from training to independent work?

Jewelry Apprentices often find the transition to independent work challenging due to the precision required in tasks like stone setting, soldering, and polishing. Mistakes can be costly, as materials are valuable and repairs may be time-consuming. Apprentices also need to develop effective time management skills to meet project deadlines and adapt to the pace of a professional workshop. Regular feedback from experienced jewelers helps ease this transition, but patience and persistence are essential for mastering intricate techniques.

What is the difference between Jewelry Apprentice vs Jewelry Setter?

AspectJewelry ApprenticeJewelry Setter
CredentialsMinimal; often on-the-job training or basic jewelry coursesTechnical skills in setting stones, often with certification or experience
Work EnvironmentJewelry workshops, retail stores, or manufacturing facilitiesJewelry workshops, manufacturing, or retail settings
Industry UsageEntry-level role for learning jewelry making and repairSpecialized role focusing on setting gemstones and finishing jewelry

Jewelry apprentices typically learn the craft through hands-on experience and basic training, while jewelry setters focus specifically on setting stones and finishing jewelry pieces. Apprentices often start with foundational skills, whereas setters require specialized technical knowledge. Both roles are essential in jewelry production but differ in scope and expertise.

How long does a jewelry apprenticeship take?

A jewelry apprenticeship typically lasts between 1 to 3 years, depending on the program and the apprentice's skill development. During this time, apprentices learn techniques such as stone setting, metalworking, and design, often working under the supervision of experienced jewelers to gain hands-on experience. Completion duration can vary based on the complexity of skills being acquired and the specific requirements of the apprenticeship program.

How much does a jewelry apprentice make?

A jewelry apprentice typically earns between $10 and $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Apprentices often learn skills such as jewelry design, fabrication, and stone setting while earning a wage that may increase with skill development and certification.
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The most popular types of Jewelry jobs in Madison, WI are:

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The top searched job categories for Jewelry Apprentice jobs in Madison, WI are:

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Jewelry Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Jewelry Apprentice job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,819 per year, or $23 per hour.

Apprentice Piercer

STUDS

Madison, WI • On-site

$24/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Studs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Want to get paid to become a piercer at Studs? Apprentices undergo a minimum 6-week paid piercing training program inclusive of classroom style learning, observation, and hands-on training. We are looking for Apprentices to join our training program that will kickoff for the first 6 weeks at one of our studio locations. Upon successful completion of the program, graduated Apprentices will become eligible for Part-Time Associate Piercer positions at our State Street studio.

Hourly Rate: 

  • Graduated apprentices make $24/hour as Associate Piercers, plus tips
  • During the 6-week training program, apprentices make $19/hour, plus tips

Key Responsibilities:

REVENUE 

  • Service Oriented 
    • Embodies our performance-oriented culture by meeting and exceeding expectations 
    • Serves as a brand ambassador: educates clients on the unique Studs' experience through our selling cycle 
    • Delivers confident, clear, and professional communication with clients during their entire Studs' experience 

OPERATIONS 

  • Decision Quality & Execution 
    • Leverages Studs' resources and policies in decision making  
    • Becomes well-versed in piercing operating procedures and regulations to ensure client experience and work safety standards are met 
    • Shows consistent and detailed record keeping of all maintenance, sterilized inventory and tools

TALENT 

  • Integrity
    • Prioritizes Studio compliance and is accountable to standard operating procedures and company policy 
    • Admits mistakes and is not afraid to escalate when help is needed 
    • Lives out our Core Values 
    • Shows consistency by providing best in class service to everyone in the Studio 
    • Provides solutions-oriented feedback and is open-minded to receiving it 

Requirements:

  • 3 years of relevant work experience
  • At least two years as a Medical Assistant or Phlebotomist (performing venipunctures and/or finger sticks) preferred
  • Full Time:
    • Must be available to work a flexible schedule up to 5 days per week (32+ hours), including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must maintain consistent availability
    • Weekend availability (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) is required, excluding approved PTO
    • Schedules may vary based on business needs, and Full-Time employees are expected to prioritize Studs as their primary employment commitment
  • Part Time:
    • Must be available to work a flexible schedule of varying days and hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
    • Must have availability to work on Saturday and Sunday, excluding approved unscheduled time away
    • Reliably attend work as scheduled for up to 29 hours per week, in line with local laws and subject to any approved accommodations
  • Must pierce a minimum 18 appointments a day
  • Must be able to visually inspect ear anatomy to execute advanced piercings 
  • Must be able to deliver piercings with a steady hand
  • Must be able to lift 20 lbs
  • Must be able to handle chemicals safely 
  • Travel to one of our studios for the duration of the training program (paid by Studs) 
  • Driven, creative problem solver that consistently acts with integrity and speaks up
  • Owner's mindset, with the ability to approach feedback and problems with a positive attitude.

 

Benefits & Perks

  • Paid Safe & Sick Leave Accrual
  • FSA Health and Commuter Tax-Advantaged Accounts
  • 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
  • Exclusive Employee Discounts on Piercings and Jewelry (we've got your friends and family covered too!)

What Studs employees say

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Hours and flexibility

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