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Scientific Instrument Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tool/Model Maker

Westbrook, CT ยท On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Tool/Model Maker Location: Westbrook, CT | Full Time Company Overview: The Lee Company is a global ... medical/scientific instrument, oil tool, and automotive industries. Lee Company products are ...

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Scientific Instrument Maker information

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How much do scientific instrument maker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for scientific instrument maker in the United States is $17.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a scientific instrument maker?

Scientific instrument makers are skilled professionals who design, build, modify, and repair specialized equipment used in scientific research and experiments. They work with materials like metal, glass, and plastics to create precise instruments such as microscopes, spectrometers, and laboratory apparatus. These experts collaborate closely with scientists and researchers to ensure that instruments meet specific experimental requirements. Their work is essential for advancing scientific discovery and maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a scientific instrument maker?

To thrive as a Scientific Instrument Maker, you need strong skills in precision machining, fabrication, and a background in mechanical engineering or a related technical field. Experience with CAD software, CNC machinery, and measurement tools is typically required, and some roles may prefer relevant trade certifications. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this position. These competencies ensure the accurate creation, assembly, and maintenance of specialized scientific instruments that are essential for research and development.

What are some common challenges faced by scientific instrument makers when collaborating with researchers and engineers?

Scientific Instrument Makers often work closely with researchers and engineers to design and fabricate custom equipment. A frequent challenge is interpreting highly specialized or evolving requirements, which can change as experiments progress. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as priorities may shift and technical specifications can be complex. Building strong relationships with team members and staying proactive in clarifying needs helps ensure the final product meets both functional and scientific goals.

What is the difference between Scientific Instrument Maker vs Laboratory Technician?

AspectScientific Instrument MakerLaboratory Technician
CredentialsTechnical certifications, specialized training in instrument fabricationAssociate's or bachelor's degree in science or related field
Work EnvironmentWorkshops, manufacturing facilities, precision assembly areasLaboratories, research facilities, clinical settings
Employer & IndustryManufacturers, research institutions, scientific equipment companiesHospitals, research labs, educational institutions

While both roles support scientific research, Scientific Instrument Makers focus on designing and building specialized instruments, whereas Laboratory Technicians operate and maintain equipment within labs. The roles differ mainly in their focus on manufacturing versus operational support, but both require technical skills and scientific knowledge.

What are popular job titles related to Scientific Instrument Maker jobs?

For Scientific Instrument Maker jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Scientific Instrument Maker job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,114 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Scientific Instrument Maker II (Salary)

Austin, TX โ€ข On-site

Phase2 Technology
Software Developmentย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$52K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Scientific Instrument Maker II (Salary) Hiring Department:

Department of Physics

Position Open To:

All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

FLSA Status:

Non-Exempt from FLSA

Earliest Start Date:

Immediately

Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

Location:

UT MAIN CAMPUS

Job Details:

The Department of Physics plays a pivotal role in the advancing of knowledge, nurturing the next generation of physicists and making a lasting impact on the world of physics. The College of Natural Sciences at UT Austin strives to foster a work environment that enables all employees to contribute at the highest possible level to support the mission of the University. What starts here really does change the world. For more information about the College of Natural Sciences, please visit. https://cns.utexas.edu. The university offers an impressive benefits package including: Employer paid health insurance (employee premiums covered at 100%; spouse and family premiums at 50%), Dental, vision, life and disability insurance options, Paid vacation and sick leave, Paid holidays, Retirement plan.

For more details, please see: Prospective Employee Benefits and My Total Rewards.

Job Description Summary

To provide for highly skilled fabrication, assembly and repair of precise and complicated instruments and machines, usually for complex scientific research, engineering, or teaching projects, by the use of milling machines and related machines and tools. Responsible for the use of initiative and independent judgment in constructing instruments to precise standards from start to finish, from rough sketches or general verbal instructions. Lays out and plans complicated fabrication processes and implements designs. May assist student, researcher or supervisor in planning overall design, development and use.

Responsibilities
  • Operates lathes and milling machines to create instruments from designs.
  • Lays out and plans complicated fabrication processes and implements designs.
  • Measure and assemble parts, attach electronic equipment to assure conformity to standards and designs.
  • May assist researchers in planning overall design, development, and use.
  • Use hand tools to file, chisel, deburr instruments.
  • Other related functions as assigned.
Required Qualifications

High school diploma/GED and three years of as a machinist or instrument maker, beyond the apprentice level. Experience with the use of lathe, milling machines, shaper, planer, drill press, welding equipment, micrometers, and other precision measuring devices.

Preferred Qualifications

More than the required qualifications. Proficient in operating computers (PC or Mac) including using Outlook, Excel and Access.

Salary Range

$52,000+ depending on qualifications.

Working Conditions
  • Work in typical metal shop environment.
  • Work around electrical and mechanical hazards
  • Personal protection equipment (furnished)
  • Work around standard office conditions
  • Work around hazardous materials
  • May work in extreme temperatures.
  • May work around chemical fumes.
  • Exposure to a variety of experimental laboratory shop conditions
Physical Tasks
  • Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
  • Use of manual dexterity
  • Lifting and moving
Required Materials
  • Resume/CV
  • Letter of interest
  • 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor.
Work Shift

4 - 10 hour days is an option. Hours: 6:00am - 4:30pm.

Employment Eligibility

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

Retirement Plan Eligibility

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

Background Checks

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer,complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Pay Transparency

The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.

Employment Eligibility Verification

If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I-9 form. You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.

E-Verify

The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is 854197. For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

  • E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (English) [PDF]
  • Right to Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
Compliance

Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act). If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report. You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.

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