Job Opening: Luthier at Schmitt Music (Bloomington, MN)

The Violin Society of America is pleased to share a new job opportunity for our members. 

Schmitt Music’s Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop, based in Bloomington, Minnesota, is seeking a talented Luthier to join their growing team. This role offers the chance to work in a state-of-the-art workshop, contributing to instrument setup, repairs, restorations, and new making. Flexible options are available, including full-time, part-time, or contract-based arrangements.

Job Description

Job Title: Luthier
Reports To: Workshop Manager

Department: Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop
Location: Schmitt Music Headquarters – Bloomington, MN
Status: Full-Time or Part-Time (Contract work also considered)

Why Join Us?

The Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop is part of Schmitt Music, a family-owned company that has supported musicians and makers since 1896. Our shop is growing within a newly built headquarters designed to support the highest level of orchestral work. We are investing in talent, tools, and time, offering serious craftspeople a place to pursue their work with purpose and stability.

Whether your passion is in tonal adjustments, restoration, or new making, this is a unique opportunity to hone your craft in a collaborative and respected environment.

Position Summary

The Paul A. Schmitt Violin Shop seeks a Luthier to join our team at our new state-of-the-art headquarters in Bloomington, Minnesota. This full-time, part-time or contract work position is ideal for a skilled craftsperson who values the art of violin making and repair and is looking for steady, meaningful work with room to grow.

Working closely with our Workshop Manager, you’ll contribute to the full range of our workshop’s work, from intermediate and professional instrument setup to complex repairs, restorations, varnishing, and new making.

We are also open to contract-based arrangements for highly qualified candidates.

What You’ll Do

As a Luthier, you’ll help elevate the quality of our instruments at all levels and support our shop’s advanced repair and restoration efforts. You’ll also have opportunities to contribute to our in-house instrument-making program.

Key Responsibilities

• Set up and adjust intermediate- through professional-level instruments
• Assist with repairs and restorations under the guidance of the Head Luthier
• Contribute to new instrument making and varnishing projects
• Maintain high-quality craftsmanship and attention to tonal detail
• Keep a well-organized, clean, and efficient workshop and follow shop system and safety standards

What We’re Looking For

Preferred Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in the industry
• Solid understanding of setup, repair techniques, and tone adjustment
• Bow repair or rehairing experience is a plus
• Playing ability or strong tonal sensitivity is desirable
• Professional, collaborative, and craft-focused mindset

Working Environment

• Hands-on, workshop-based setting with a supportive team
• Frequent standing, hand use, light lifting, and occasional bending or kneeling
• Full-time or part-time schedule available
• Opportunities for contract work with flexible terms

Pay Transparency

Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, and employment type:

• Hourly range: $25–$30/hour
• Contracted rates: Negotiated based on the scope of work and experience. 

We regularly review compensation to remain competitive and to reflect the value of craftsmanship and experience in our workshop.

Learn more about us at www.schmittmusic.com

We look forward to hearing from you.

Schmitt Music is an equal opportunity employer.

At Schmitt Music Company, we recognize and appreciate the importance of creating an environment in which all Team Members feel valued, included, and empowered to do their best work and bring great ideas to the company. 

We recognize that each Team Member’s unique experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints add value to our ability to create and deliver the best musical products and services to our customers.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your resume and a brief letter of interest outlining your experience and workshop background to employment@schmittmusic.com. 

Let us know if you are seeking full-time, part-time, or contract-based work.