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Scientific Instrument Maker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title Instrument Maker III Agency Texas A&M University Department Chemistry Proposed Minimum ... Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure instrument designs align with ...

Laboratory Instrument Maker Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536134 Work type: Staff Senior ... This position fabricates specialized scientific and mechanical equipment as required from a variety ...

... science, business, design, and liberal arts. Georgia Tech's faculty attracted more than $1.4 ... Job Duty 5 - Provide guidance to lower level Instrument Makers. Job Duty 6 - Confer with shop ...

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 Jun 6, 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 are scientific instrument makers?

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

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 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.

Infographic showing various Scientific Instrument Maker job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,114 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Instrument Maker III

Tamus

College Station, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title

Instrument Maker III

Agency

Texas A&M University

Department

Chemistry

Proposed Minimum Salary

Commensurate

Job Location

College Station, Texas

Job Type

Staff

Job Description

Glimpse of the Job

Are you an experienced instrument maker with a passion for precision and innovation? The department of Chemistry is looking for a skilled professional to join our team in a role focused on the design, construction, modification, and maintenance of scientific instruments and research apparatus. In this hands-on position, you'll work closely with researchers and educators to bring complex ideas to life-evaluating needs, crafting custom solutions, and ensuring equipment performs at its best. The ideal candidate will bring extensive machine shop experience, strong proficiency in SolidWorks and Mastercam, and a proven ability to train and supervise others in the construction and repair of scientific equipment. If you're ready to apply your technical expertise in a collaborative, research-driven environment, we encourage you to apply!

Opportunities to Contribute

  • Assess user requirements and research goals to determine specifications for new or modified scientific instruments and apparatus.

  • Design and develop blueprints, schematics, and prototypes using CAD tools to meet functional and performance needs.

  • Collaborate with scientists, engineers, and researchers to ensure instrument designs align with project objectives.

  • Construct, assemble, and test instruments using appropriate materials, tools, and techniques to ensure quality and reliability.

  • Ensure all instruments comply with safety standards and meet required performance criteria.

  • Modify and upgrade existing instruments to improve performance or meet evolving research needs.

  • Diagnose, repair, and calibrate scientific instruments to ensure accurate and reliable operation.

  • Perform routine maintenance and inspections to prevent malfunctions and extend equipment lifespan.

  • Maintain detailed records of all repairs, modifications, calibrations, and maintenance activities.

  • Instruct and train technicians, and research staff in the construction, repair, and maintenance of scientific instruments.

Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Eight years of related experience in the design, construction, modification, and repair of precision instruments and equipment.

A well-qualified candidate will also possess

  • Knowledge in SolidWorks and Mastercam.

  • Demonstrated skills and abilities of top instrument makers in the nation, which includes training in the programming and operation of multiple types of computerized machines and related equipment required in instrument construction.

  • Extensive machine shop experience including use of equipment and tools.

  • Bachelor's degree in appropriate science or engineering field of study.

  • Ability to work from verbal instructions and rudimentary sketches and diagrams.

  • Working knowledge of diagnostic equipment such as oscilloscope, digital voltmeters, vacuum gauges, voltage and current calibrators, or other equipment or tools used in assigned duties.

Salary: Compensation will be commensurate based on the selected hire's education and experience.

Special Note: This position is funded from grant and/or contract funding, which is renewed through provisions of the grantor of the contract. Therefore, this position is contingent upon continuation of funding from these grants and/or contracts, as well as satisfactory job performance.

What You Need to Do

Apply! Submit a resume/cv and cover letter. These documents will help us with the review process. You may upload these documents on the application under CV/Resume.

Why Texas A&M University?

Texas A&M University is committed to enriching the learning and working environment by promoting a culture that respects all perspectives, talents & lived experiences. Embracing varying opinions and perspectives strengthens our core values which are: Respect, Excellence, Leadership, Loyalty, Integrity, and Selfless Service.

Texas A&M University's Department of Chemistry is a cadre of faculty, staff, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, academic advisors, scientific and technical staff, who have a shared purpose of translating our passion for chemistry to young scholars at all levels in many scientific fields. To learn more, please visit our website: http://www.chem.tamu.edu/

We are a prestigious university with strong traditions, Core Values, and a community of caring and collaboration. Amenities associated with a major university, such as sporting and cultural events, state-of-the-art recreation facilities, the Bush Library and Museum, and much more await you. Experience all that a big city has to offer but with a reasonable cost-of-living and no long commutes.

  • Medical, prescription drug, dental, vision, life and AD&D, flexible spending accounts, and long-term disability insurance with Texas A&M contributing to employee health and basic life premiums

  • 12-15 days of annual paid holidays

  • Up to eight hours of paid sick leaveand at leasteight hours of paid vacationeach month

  • Automatic enrollment in theTeacher Retirement System of Texas

  • Health and Wellness: Free exercise programs and release time

  • Professional Development: All employees have access to freeLinkedIn Learningtraining, webinars, and limited financial support to attend conferences, workshops, and more

  • Educational release time and tuition assistancefor completing a degree while a Texas A&M employee

  • Living Well, a program at Texas A&M that has been built by employees, for employees

Instructions to Applicants: Applications received by Texas A&M University must either have all job application data entered or a resume attached. Failure to provide all job application data or a complete resume could result in an invalid submission and a rejected application. We encourage all applicants to upload a resume' or use a LinkedIn profile to pre-populate the online application.

All positions are security-sensitive. Applicants are subject to a criminal history investigation, and employment is contingent upon the institution's verification of credentials and/or other information required by the institution's procedures, including the completion of the criminal history check.

Equal Opportunity/Veterans/Disability Employer.