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Luthier Pay Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Orchestral Luthier

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hourly pay + bonus opportunities, based on experience and training * Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of orchestral string instrument repair ...

Orchestral Luthier

Madison, WI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hourly pay + bonus opportunities, based on experience and training * Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of orchestral string instrument repair ...

Orchestral Luthier

Madison, WI ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Hourly pay + bonus opportunities, based on experience and training * Relocation assistance available for eligible candidates Qualifications * Minimum of 2 years of orchestral string instrument repair ...

Guitar Technician (Luthier) Store 233

Tukwila, WA ยท On-site

$21.65 - $32.48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pay Rate: $21.65/hr - $32.48/hr plus commission depending on background and experience. The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any ...

Guitar Technician (Luthier) Store 233

Tukwila, WA ยท On-site

$21.65 - $32.48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pay Rate: $21.65/hr - $32.48/hr plus commission depending on background and experience. The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any ...

PT Guitar Technician (Luthier) Store 330

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$17.05 - $25.58/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pay Rate: $17.05/hr - $25.58/hr plus commission depending on background and experience. The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any ...

Guitar Technician (Luthier) Store 550

Boston, MA ยท On-site

$16.25 - $24.38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pay Rate: $16.25/hr - $24.38/hr plus commission depending on background and experience. The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any ...

PT Guitar Technician (Luthier) Store 519

Williston, VT ยท On-site

$14.42 - $21.63/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Pay Rate: $14.42/hr - $21.63/hr plus commission depending on background and experience. The job posting is not necessarily reflective of actual compensation that may be earned, nor a promise of any ...

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Luthier Pay information

See salary details

$38.5K

$73.1K

$107.5K

How much do luthier pay jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for luthier pay in the United States is $73,099.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a luthier typically get paid?

Luthiers, who are skilled in building and repairing stringed instruments such as guitars and violins, typically earn between $30,000 and $60,000 per year in the United States. Pay can vary widely based on experience, location, and whether the luthier works independently, for a shop, or for a manufacturer. Highly experienced or renowned luthiers may command higher prices for custom work, sometimes earning significantly more. Many luthiers supplement their income through teaching or restoration work. Entry-level positions or apprenticeships may start at a lower salary until more experience is gained.

What factors influence the earning potential for a luthier, and how can professionals increase their pay?

A luthier's earning potential is influenced by factors such as their level of experience, reputation, specialization (e.g., guitars, violins, restoration), and whether they work independently or for a company. Luthiers who build custom instruments, offer high-quality repairs, or work with renowned musicians often command higher rates. Building a strong portfolio, networking within the music community, and continually developing craftsmanship can help increase pay and open up opportunities for higher-end work or even running a successful independent shop.

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

To thrive as a Luthier, you need expertise in woodworking, instrument construction, repair techniques, and a thorough understanding of acoustics, often gained through apprenticeships or specialized training. Familiarity with hand and power tools, finishing techniques, and sometimes digital design software is important for crafting and restoring stringed instruments. Attention to detail, patience, creativity, and strong customer service skills help luthiers deliver high-quality, custom work. These abilities are crucial to ensure instruments meet precise sound and aesthetic standards, resulting in satisfied clients and a strong professional reputation.

What is the difference between Luthier Pay vs Violin Maker Pay?

AspectLuthier PayViolin Maker Pay
Required CredentialsApprenticeships, craftsmanship skillsApprenticeships, craftsmanship skills
Work EnvironmentWorkshop, repair shops, custom shopsWorkshop, custom shops, manufacturing
Industry UsageMusical instrument repair and customizationInstrument creation, restoration, and customization
Common Search IntentPay differences, salary expectationsPay comparison, salary range

Both luthiers and violin makers require craftsmanship skills and often undergo similar training. Luthiers focus on repairing and customizing stringed instruments, working mainly in repair shops, while violin makers primarily create new instruments in workshops. Their pay varies based on experience, location, and specialization, but generally, they earn comparable wages within the musical instrument industry.

How much do luthiers make an hour?

Luthiers typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled luthiers working in specialized shops or with a strong reputation may earn higher wages, especially if they have certifications or advanced craftsmanship skills.

Is being a luthier a good career?

A luthier is a craftsperson who builds and repairs stringed instruments, often requiring specialized skills, tools, and attention to detail. The career can be rewarding for those passionate about music and craftsmanship, but it typically offers limited job stability and income potential compared to other trades or professions. Success often depends on reputation, skill level, and the ability to find clients or employment in a niche market.

Is there a demand for luthiers?

The demand for luthiers remains steady, especially among musicians, collectors, and repair shops seeking custom or high-quality instrument craftsmanship. Opportunities are often found in specialized workshops, music stores, and restoration projects, with success often relying on skill, reputation, and certifications in woodworking and acoustics.
More about Luthier Pay jobs

What cities are hiring for Luthier Pay jobs?

Cities with the most Luthier Pay job openings:

What states have the most Luthier Pay jobs?

States with the most job openings for Luthier Pay jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Luthier Pay jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Luthier Pay jobs are:

Infographic showing various Luthier Pay job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,099 per year, or $35.1 per hour.

Part Time String Luthier Apprentice

Bell's Music Shop

Fort Worth, TX โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Part-Time String Instrument Luthier Apprentice

Bell's Music Shop, Inc.
Part-Time | 15–20 Hours per Week | Starting Pay: $15.00/hour


Bell's Music Shop, Inc. is seeking a part-time String Instrument Luthier Apprentice to train and work directly alongside our master luthier.

This is a hands-on apprenticeship focused specifically on violin-family and orchestral string instruments: violin, viola, cello, and upright bass. This is not a guitar repair position.

We are looking for someone who enjoys working with their hands, has excellent attention to detail, and is genuinely interested in learning the specialized craft of string instrument repair, setup, and restoration.


What You'll Learn

Working directly with our master luthier, you will receive hands-on instruction while assisting with the daily work of the repair shop. Training may include:

  • Violin, viola, cello, and bass inspection and evaluation
  • Instrument setup and adjustment
  • Bridge fitting and adjustment
  • Peg and fingerboard maintenance
  • Bow and instrument maintenance
  • Cleaning, polishing, and instrument preparation
  • Basic repair and restoration techniques
  • Proper use and care of specialized luthier tools
  • Safe handling of customer and shop instruments
  • More advanced repair techniques as your skills develop

Previous professional luthier experience is not required. This position is intended for someone who wants to learn the craft.


Korean Language Requirement

Conversational Korean proficiency is required for this position.

The apprentice will work directly with and receive hands-on instruction from our master luthier, whose primary language is Korean. The ability to understand and communicate in Korean is necessary for effective day-to-day training, technical instruction, and workshop communication.

Applicants of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Korean language proficiency is a communication requirement of the position; Korean nationality or ethnicity is not.


What We're Looking For

  • Conversational proficiency in Korean
  • Genuine interest in violin, viola, cello, and bass repair
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Good hand-eye coordination and mechanical aptitude
  • Patience and the ability to perform precise, careful work
  • Willingness to learn through hands-on instruction
  • Dependability and a strong work ethic
  • Ability to maintain a consistent part-time schedule
  • Respect for delicate and valuable musical instruments

Experience playing violin, viola, cello, or upright bass is a plus but not required.

Experience with woodworking, musical instrument repair, jewelry making, machining, model building, fine crafts, or other detailed hands-on work may also be helpful.


Position Details

Company: Bell's Music Shop, Inc.
Position: String Instrument Luthier Apprentice
Job Type: Part-Time
Hours: Approximately 15–20 hours per week
Starting Pay: $15.00 per hour

This is an opportunity to learn a highly specialized trade directly from an experienced master luthier. For the right person, we're looking for more than someone to simply fill part-time hours—we want someone who is interested in developing real skills and becoming increasingly capable in the craft.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume along with a short introduction telling us:

  • Your level of Korean language proficiency
  • Any experience you have with violin, viola, cello, or upright bass
  • Any woodworking, repair, mechanical, artistic, or other hands-on experience
  • Why you're interested in learning the craft of luthiery

We value patience, craftsmanship, reliability, and a willingness to learn. If that sounds like you, we'd like to hear from you.

Company Description

Founded in 2008 by Steve Bell, Sr. and Steve Bell, Jr., Bell's Music Shop has built a reputation for quality service, affordable pricing, and integrity. We proudly serve school music programs throughout North Texas and are passionate about helping musicians succeed.

If you're looking for more than just a job—and want to build a lifelong career in a specialized trade—we'd love to meet you.