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Musical Instrument Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Musical Instrument Technician information

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$15

$30

$46

How much do musical instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for musical instrument technician in the United States is $30.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Where do instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Instrumentation technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or manufacturing presence, such as areas with large oil and gas, chemical, or power plant industries. Salaries are also higher in locations with a high cost of living and demand for specialized skills, often requiring certifications and experience with complex control systems and calibration tools.

What are some 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.

How to 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. Developing skills in electronics, woodworking, and acoustics, as well as gaining experience with tools and repair techniques, is essential; some technicians pursue certifications from professional organizations to enhance their credentials.

How much does an instrument tech make?

In Louisiana, a musical instrument technician typically earns between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of instruments serviced. Skilled technicians with specialized tools and certifications may earn higher wages, especially in larger or more specialized repair shops.

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.

Is instrument technician a good career?

A musical instrument technician repairs, maintains, and restores instruments, often working in repair shops, music stores, or independently. The career offers opportunities for hands-on work, requires technical skills, and may involve certifications or apprenticeships; job stability depends on demand for instrument repair services. Overall, it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about music and craftsmanship.

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

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.
More about Musical Instrument Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Musical Instrument Technician jobs? Cities with the most Musical Instrument Technician job openings:
What states have the most Musical Instrument Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Musical Instrument Technician jobs include:
Infographic showing various Musical Instrument Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Advanced Technician, Music Repair Shop

Advanced Technician, Music Repair Shop

The Guitar Center Company

Itasca, IL • On-site

$21 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Guitar Center rating

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 175 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

426th of 722 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.

What Guitar Center employees say

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About Guitar Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Guitar Center Company embodies the world of creativity and music by encouraging our teammates to find their own individual sound. Our mission is to develop and nurture lifelong musicians and make a difference in the world by enabling musicians and non-musicians alike to experience the joy that comes from creating music. We believe in putting our customers first, engaging with respect and integrity and fulfilling our mission with passion. The Guitar Center Company operates through several business divisions. Guitar Center is the world's largest retailer of guitars, amplifiers, drums, keyboards, recording, live sound, DJ, and lighting equipment, with more than 290 stores across the United States. 2014 marked the milestone 50th anniversary of the Guitar Center Company as the organization continues to help people make music from coast to coast.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Westlake Village, CA, US

Year founded

1964