1

Musical Instrument Repair Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Musical Instrument Repair information

See salary details

$20.5K

$41.4K

$58K

How much do musical instrument repair jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for musical instrument repair in the United States is $41,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,500.00 and $46,000.00 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 do you call a person who repairs musical instruments?

A person who repairs musical instruments is called a musical instrument repair technician or luthier, depending on the type of instrument. They often have specialized skills, knowledge of instrument construction, and may use tools like soldering irons or tuning equipment. Certification or apprenticeship can enhance credibility in this field.

Is instrument repair a good job?

Instrument repair is a skilled trade that involves diagnosing and fixing issues in musical instruments, often requiring knowledge of acoustics, mechanics, and tools. It can be a rewarding career for those with attention to detail and manual dexterity, but job availability may vary based on location and demand for repair services.

How to get into music instrument repair?

To pursue a career in musical instrument repair, gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or technical programs is essential. Developing skills in woodworking, electronics, and instrument anatomy, along with familiarity with repair tools, can improve job prospects. Certification from trade schools or industry associations can also enhance credibility in this field.

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.

How much do instrument technicians make in the US?

Instrument technicians, including those who repair musical instruments, typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000 in the US. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specialization, with some technicians earning higher with advanced skills or certifications. Many work in repair shops, music stores, or independently, often requiring knowledge of tools and repair techniques.

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.
More about Musical Instrument Repair jobs
What cities are hiring for Musical Instrument Repair jobs? Cities with the most Musical Instrument Repair job openings:
What states have the most Musical Instrument Repair jobs? States with the most job openings for Musical Instrument Repair jobs include:
Infographic showing various Musical Instrument Repair job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 34% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,375 per year, or $19.9 per hour.
Band Instrument Repair Technician - Tier 1

Band Instrument Repair Technician - Tier 1

Schmitt Music

Sioux Falls, SD โ€ข On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Band Instrument Repair Technician โ€“ Tier 1

Reports to: Repair Manager

Status: Full-time, non-exempt

Role Summary

Schmitt Music is seeking to hire several new Band Repair Technicians at each of our company-owned shops (Bloomington, MN; Fargo, ND; Sioux Falls, SD; and Omaha, NE) as part of a major expansion of the instrument repair and restoration team. These positions play a key role in delivering a seamless service experience for customers and schools by combining technical expertise with strong collaboration and communication based on Schmitt Musicโ€™s core values: Serve Your Customer, Do Whatโ€™s Right, and Continuous Improvement.

Why Schmitt Music

For more than 125 years, Schmitt Music has existed for one purpose: to enrich lives by helping people make music. As the Upper Midwestโ€™s premier supplier and service center for school music and beginning band programs, we support thousands of students, educators, and schools each year.

At the same time, Schmitt Music is also home to one of the regionโ€™s largest selections of intermediate and professional-level instruments. Our Bloomington showroom gives technicians rare, hands-on exposure to some of the finest instruments available, creating learning opportunities that simply donโ€™t exist in most repair environments.

Our repair teams are central to this mission. Every instrument that leaves a Schmitt Music bench supports a studentโ€™s first note, a programโ€™s success, or a professional musicianโ€™s performance. We invest in technicians the same way we invest in music education: for the long term.

Band Instrument Repair Technician โ€“ Tier 1 (Early Career)

Start Your Career Where Craftsmanship and Education Meet.

The Tier 1 Band Instrument Repair Technician role is designed for new graduates and early career technicians who want to build a real career, not just get a first job. At Schmitt Music, youโ€™ll take what you learned in school and apply it in a professional, supportive environment where mentorship, growth, and clear expectations are built into the role.

As a Tier 1 technician, your day is focused on learning and practice. Youโ€™ll spend time at the bench reconditioning company-owned brass and woodwind instruments, building consistency and speed. Youโ€™ll work alongside experienced technicians who answer questions, provide feedback, and help you refine your craft. Each day builds confidence, skill, and readiness for the next level.

Key Responsibilities

โ€ข Recondition company-owned brass and woodwind instruments to Schmitt Music standards

โ€ข Maintain accurate repair documentation, tagging, and tracking of instruments within the retail store environment

โ€ข Care for instruments, tools, and shop resources with professionalism and accountability

โ€ข Identify opportunities to improve repair processes, turnaround times, and communication between service and retail teams

What Weโ€™re Looking For

โ€ข Graduate of a formal band instrument repair program preferred (Red Wing, WITCC, or similar); apprenticeships without prior training will be considered

โ€ข Strong attention to detail and pride in craftsmanship

โ€ข Desire to learn, grow, and build a long-term career

โ€ข Basic proficiency in brass and woodwind repair preferred

Tuition Reimbursement โ€“ Investing in Your Education

Schmitt Music is proud to offer an industry-first tuition reimbursement program for qualified Tier 1 technicians. We believe the cost of learning the trade should not be a barrier to building a career in repair. This program is designed to help reduce student loan burden while rewarding commitment, performance, and long-term growth with Schmitt Music.

Why This Role Is Different

โ€ข Highly competitive starting wage

โ€ข Tuition reimbursement for qualified graduates

โ€ข Structured mentorship and defined advancement path to Tier 2

Note: This job description is not intended to cover every responsibility or task associated with the position and may evolve over time.