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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 Jun 6, 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.

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 hands-on experience, are important; some technicians pursue certifications from professional organizations to enhance their credentials.

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 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:
What job categories do people searching Musical Instrument Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Musical Instrument Technician jobs are:
Infographic showing various Musical Instrument Technician job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Music Instrument Repair Specialist

Music Instrument Repair Specialist

Music & Arts

Anderson, SC

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Music & Arts rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

219th of 713 rated retailers


Job description

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

Essential Functions (not all-inclusive):

  • Clean and repair of at least one type instrument -- brass, woodwind, orchestral or percussion
  • Provide estimates for repair of instruments
  • Work on a timetable to ensure that work is completed within estimated cost/time.
  • Work on customer owned and retail instruments from the student level to professional instruments
  • Perform work at an hourly rate in excess of the shops hourly rate, and work must be of excellent quality
  • Other duties as assigned, such as assisting at repair clinics or school events.
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.

Minimum Requirements:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Apprenticeship or a diploma for an accredited repair school
  • At least 6 years' experience in working on musical instruments on a daily basis preferred
  • Strings Experience

Physical Demand & Work Effort

  • Noise environment
  • Standing, sitting, walking
  • Lifting, pushing and pulling of instruments and cases up to 75 pounds
  • Mild cleaning chemical smell
Love this gig and want to apply?

Send your resume and cover letter today along with salary expectations!

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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