Orchestra Bow Technician / Bow Repair Specialist

Bow Technician / Bow Repair Specialist
(Strings: Violin, Viola, Cello)
Full-time / In-person

We are seeking a skilled Bow Technician / Bow Repair Specialist to join our instrument repair luthier team. The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years of experience with repairing, rehairing, adjusting, and maintaining bows for orchestral string instruments, such as violins, violas, and cellos. You will ensure the highest quality craftsmanship, work closely with luthiers, musicians, and clients (including students, professionals, and schools), and collaborate with luthiers to support comprehensive instrument repair and restoration work as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform bow rehairing: removal of old horsehair, selecting/new horsehair, setting the correct tension, tying and finishing knots.
• Repair, adjust, and maintain bow components: frogs, screw mechanisms, ferrules, winding, slipping, eyelets, etc.
• Inspect bows (variations in camber, stick condition, warps, cracks, hair wear) and make repairs or recommend replacement if necessary.
• Adjust bow balance and weight where possible (winding, reshaping, etc.).
• Work with various bow stick materials (wood: pernambuco, brazilwood; carbon; composites) and understand their care and maintenance.
• Maintain repair records, parts inventory, and cost documentation
• Polish, clean, and restore finish where needed without harming materials.
• Keep records of repairs, costs, parts, and inventory.
• Liaise with customers/musicians to explain repair options, estimates, and timelines.
• Occasionally assist with full instrument (violin/viola/cello) repair tasks or collaborate with luthiers for structural adjustments.
• Maintain a clean, safe work area and proper tool care

Requirements

• 2+ years on rehairing, repairing, adjusting, and maintaining bows for orchestral string instruments
• Apprenticeship / formal training in bow repair or stringed instrument repair/lutherie preferred.
• Demonstrated experience rehairing bows and performing bow repairs.
• Knowledge of different bow materials, finishes, and common repair techniques.
• Woodworking Skills
• Sharpening Skills
• Understanding how humidity affects hair
• Strong manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and attention to detail.
• Good listening skills – the ability to test bows and adjust them to achieve optimal sound and feel.
• Ability to manage time, estimate repair durations accurately, and work reliably to meet deadlines.
• Excellent client communication.
• Metalworking skills
• Able to work with fine tools
• Experience working with professional musicians or orchestras

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly rate or salary (dependent on experience). Competitive with local industry standards.
• Paid time off / vacation.
• Health insurance , vision, dental, 401k
• Employee discounts on instruments/parts.
• Professional development opportunities

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our team. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.