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Musical Instrument Technician Jobs in California

LHP MUSIC

Band Repair Technician

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Opened in 1986, Nick Rail Music has a stellar reputation both inside the music products industry ... Graduation from a certified instrument repair program or comparable experience * A minimum of three ...

Nick Rail Music

Band Repair Technician

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$25 - $32/hr

Opened in 1986, Nick Rail Music has a stellar reputation both inside the music products industry ... Graduation from a certified instrument repair program or comparable experience * A minimum of three ...

LHP MUSIC

Band Repair Technician

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Consistently adhere to Nick Rail Music's employee handbook and customer service standards ... Graduation from a certified instrument repair program. * A minimum of three years brass and ...

Nick Rail Music

Band Repair Technician

Valencia, CA · On-site

$25 - $45/hr

Consistently adhere to Nick Rail Music's employee handbook and customer service standards ... Graduation from a certified instrument repair program. * A minimum of three years brass and ...

Steinway Inc

Retail Salesperson

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

... musical and tonal understanding is required as our clients often seek guidance and recommendations during instrument selections. In addition to focusing on showroom sales, a large part of this job ...

Steinway Inc

Retail Salesperson

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $130K/yr

... musical and tonal understanding is required as our clients often seek guidance and recommendations during instrument selections. In addition to focusing on showroom sales, a large part of this job ...

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All JobsMusical Instrument Technician JobsMusical Instrument Technician Jobs in California

Musical Instrument Technician information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do musical instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for musical instrument technician 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 common challenges musical instrument technicians face when working with a variety of instruments?

Musical Instrument Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing subtle issues that affect an instrument's tone or playability and sourcing rare or specialized parts for repairs. Each instrument type—whether string, woodwind, brass, or percussion—requires unique techniques and tools, so technicians must continuously update their skills. Additionally, they may work under tight deadlines, especially when supporting professional musicians or institutions, making time management and clear communication with clients essential.

What is the difference between Musical Instrument Technician vs Luthier?

AspectMusical Instrument TechnicianLuthier
CredentialsTechnical certifications, instrument repair trainingApprenticeships, specialized lutherie courses
Work EnvironmentRepair shops, music stores, manufacturing facilitiesWorkshop, custom shop, repair studio
Industry UsageMusic stores, repair services, instrument manufacturersCustom instrument making, repairs, restorations

Musical Instrument Technicians focus on repairing and maintaining a wide range of instruments using technical skills and certifications. Luthiers specialize in crafting and repairing stringed instruments, often requiring specialized craftsmanship. Both roles are essential in the music industry but differ in scope and expertise.

What does a musical instrument technician do?

A Musical Instrument Technician specializes in repairing, maintaining, and tuning musical instruments to ensure they function correctly and produce the best possible sound. They may work with a variety of instruments, such as pianos, stringed instruments, brass, woodwind, or percussion. Their duties can include diagnosing problems, replacing parts, restoring old instruments, and performing routine maintenance. Technicians often work in music shops, repair workshops, or travel to clients' locations, and they need a good understanding of both music and mechanics.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a musical instrument technician?

To thrive as a Musical Instrument Technician, you need a solid understanding of instrument construction, repair techniques, and acoustics, often supported by relevant vocational training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with specialized tools, tuning equipment, and sometimes certification from organizations like the National Association of Professional Band Instrument Repair Technicians (NAPBIRT) is typically required. Exceptional attention to detail, manual dexterity, and strong customer service skills help technicians stand out in this role. These skills ensure instruments are properly maintained and repaired, supporting musicians’ performance and satisfaction.

How to get a job as a musical instrument technician?

To become a musical instrument technician, gain experience through apprenticeships or technical programs focused on instrument repair and maintenance. Developing skills in woodworking, electronics, and acoustics, along with certifications from professional organizations, can improve job prospects. Practical experience and knowledge of various instruments are essential for employment in music stores, repair shops, or manufacturing companies.

How do you become a musical instrument technician?

To become a musical instrument technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or an apprenticeship in instrument repair and maintenance. Many technicians learn through technical schools, community colleges, or on-the-job training, gaining skills in woodworking, electronics, and acoustics to repair and restore instruments effectively.

How much do musical instrument technicians make in the US?

Musical instrument technicians in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and specialization, with some technicians earning over $60,000 with advanced skills or certifications. Many technicians work in repair shops, music stores, or for individual clients, often requiring knowledge of repair tools and maintenance techniques.
What are popular job titles related to Musical Instrument Technician jobs in California? For Musical Instrument Technician jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Musical Instrument Technician jobs? Cities in California with the most Musical Instrument Technician job openings:
Musical Instrument Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Musical Instrument Technician job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,921 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Brass Musical Instrument Technician

Ingram & Brauns Musik Shoppe

Modesto, CA • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Musical instrument technician specializing in brass instruments.

Approximately 3/4 workload is customer repairs. 50% commission on all repairs ($90 shop rate: $45 per hour)

Approximately 1/4 workload is maintaining our rental fleet. ($20-$30 per hour based on experience.)

Benefits:

1 week paid vacation/sick leave annually for the first two years. A second week will be added at year 3, a third week at year 7 and a fourth week at 10 years.

Paid leave for Labor Day, Memorial Day, Thanksgiving Day and the time between Christmas and New Years Day.

Medical Insurance

Average yearly gross between 50k and 80k dependent on skill level. Additional skills (ie. woodwind and luthier skills) will bring more opportunities. We are willing to cross train on woodwinds and strings if the applicant is motivated.

Company Description

We are a family owned business serving musicians since 1985.