Guitar Technician
Guitar technicians are responsible for maintaining guitar equipment, repairing guitars, keeping guitars properly tuned, helping to resolve any issues musicians may have, and properly connecting audio equipment to guitars. A band that is on tour may employ technicians, or he or she may work for a musical instrument retail outlet.
When working with a band on tour, the typical duties include: unpacking guitars and guitar equipment, stringing guitars, setting up amplifiers and other sound equipment, connecting guitars to sound equipment, stocking guitar picks, and repairing equipment. Technicians that work in a retail setting have the following duties: addressing customer issues, answering customer questions, repairing guitars, ordering equipment, dealing with vendors, and arranging external repairs when needed.
While there is no specific education required to become a guitar technician, musical knowledge and experience is necessary. A strong background playing the guitar, as well as knowledge of the different varieties of guitars and their features is a must.
Other recommended skills include: appropriate customer service skills, teaching skills, communication skills, technical writing skills, electronic skills, sound system knowledge, and the ability to work in a team setting.
The typical average salary of a guitar technician is about $29,200 per year. Individuals who have several years of technician experience, and those who are able to gain employment with well known musicians and bands have the potential to earn much larger salaries.
