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Musical Instrument Repair Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Music & Arts

Technician, Repair Cleaner

Itasca, IL

An instrument repair cleaner's job is to detail and clean rental instruments and prepare them to ... Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in ...

Guitar Center

Technician, Repair Cleaner

Itasca, IL

An instrument repair cleaner's job is to detail and clean rental instruments and prepare them to ... Music to become the largest band and orchestra instrument retailer in the United States. Based in ...

Music & Arts

Music Repair Technician

Itasca, IL

$18 - $20/hr

The purpose of this job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned in good playing order. A technician can specialize in one type of ...

All JobsMusical Instrument Repair JobsMusical Instrument Repair Jobs in Chicago, IL

Musical Instrument Repair information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$21.1K

$42.6K

$59.7K

How much do musical instrument repair jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for musical instrument repair in Chicago, IL is $42,622.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $47,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by musical instrument repair technicians in their daily work?

Musical instrument repair technicians often encounter a wide variety of instruments and issues, requiring adaptability and a strong attention to detail. One common challenge is diagnosing complex or subtle problems, especially in vintage or heavily used instruments, which may require creative problem-solving. Additionally, technicians frequently handle time-sensitive repairs for professional musicians, making time management and communication with clients essential. Working with delicate materials and specialized tools also demands precision and ongoing learning to stay updated with evolving instrument technologies.

What is the difference between Musical Instrument Repair vs Piano Technician?

AspectMusical Instrument RepairPiano Technician
CredentialsVaries by instrument; often requires specialized training or certificationTypically requires certification or formal training in piano technology
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, music stores, or client locations for various instrumentsSpecialized in piano tuning, repair, and regulation, often in dedicated workshops or client homes
Industry UsageUsed across multiple instrument types including strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussionFocused exclusively on pianos, including grand and upright models
Common Search/ComparisonMusical Instrument Repair vs Piano Technician

Musical Instrument Repair professionals work on a wide range of instruments, requiring diverse skills and certifications. In contrast, Piano Technicians specialize in pianos, often holding specific certifications and working primarily on tuning and regulating pianos. Both roles are essential in the music industry but differ in scope, environment, and specialization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Musical Instrument Repair Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Musical Instrument Repair Technician, you need strong mechanical aptitude, manual dexterity, and knowledge of musical instrument construction, often supported by specialized training or apprenticeship. Familiarity with tools like lathes, soldering irons, and specialized diagnostic equipment is crucial, and some technicians pursue certifications from organizations such as NAPBIRT. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication skills are important soft skills for effectively diagnosing issues and interacting with clients. These skills ensure high-quality repairs, customer satisfaction, and the longevity of the instruments entrusted to your care.

What does a musical instrument repair technician do?

A musical instrument repair technician inspects, maintains, and repairs a variety of musical instruments, such as brass, woodwind, string, and percussion instruments. Their work involves diagnosing problems, replacing or adjusting parts, cleaning instruments, and sometimes restoring antique or damaged pieces. They use specialized tools and techniques to ensure instruments are in optimal playing condition and may work in music stores, repair shops, or for orchestras and schools.
What are popular job titles related to Musical Instrument Repair jobs in Chicago, IL? For Musical Instrument Repair jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Musical Instrument Repair jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Musical Instrument Repair jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Musical Instrument Repair jobs near you
Infographic showing various Musical Instrument Repair job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, and 41% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,622 per year, or $20.5 per hour.
Advanced Technician, Music Repair Shop

Advanced Technician, Music Repair Shop

Music & Arts

Itasca, IL

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Music & Arts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 728 rated retailers

Job description

The purpose of this job is to repair musical instruments in a timely and proficient manner so that the instrument is returned in good playing order. A technician can specialize in one type of instrument, or work on multiple types.

Duty or Responsibility:

  • Works on rental returned instruments in an efficient & timely manner.
  • Ensuring each instrument is repared according to established quality guidelines
  • Maintain accurate records for production reporting
  • Additional duties as assigned.
About Music & Arts

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 200+ retail stores, 120+ educational representatives, and 300+ affiliate locations.

To join our band, you'll need the following experience:

  • 3 years (minimum) prior Repair Technician experience (required)
  • Certificate from an accredited Musical Instrument Repair School (preferred)
  • Fully competent and able to perform independently as a Repair Technician
  • Skilled understanding and function of one or all brass, woodwind, percussion, and orchestral instruments
  • Proven ability to meet production goals while simultaneously maintaining quality control standards
  • Proven ability to show a high level of self-initiative; constantly seeks ways to improve techniques and efficiency
  • Comfortable and confident with skillsets and effectively collaborates with other Repair Technicians to ensure the shop reaches production goals as a team 
 

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: $21 - $25/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.

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