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 strong experience repairing, rehairing, adjusting, and maintaining bows for orchestral string instruments — violins, violas, and cellos. You will ensure the highest quality craftsmanship, work with a diverse range of 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.
• 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

Qualifications & Skills

• 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.
• Strong manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Good listening skills – ability to test bows, adjust to achieve optimal sound and feel.
• Ability to manage time, estimate repair durations accurately, and work reliably to meet deadlines.
• Excellent client communication.
• Basic woodworking/metalworking skills are a plus.
• Experience working with professional musicians or orchestras is beneficial.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly rate or salary (dependent on experience). Competitive with local industry standards.
• Paid time off / vacation.
• Health insurance (if full-time).
• Employee discounts on instruments/parts.
• Professional development opportunities (workshops, trade shows, training).