What are the responsibilities and job description for the Orchestral Strings Luthier position at Popplers Music Inc.?
Company Overview:
Popplers Music, Inc. is a music retail business with stores in Grand Forks, ND and Sioux Falls, SD. Established in 1909, we are a full-line music retail store that works directly with schools, churches, and individual musicians. Our team is autonomous, customer-centric, and supportive, with a goal of supporting music education and the individual pursuit of a musical life.
Position Overview:
The Orchestral Strings Luthier is responsible for diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining orchestral string instruments, including violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. This role involves performing structural repairs, adjustments, and setups to ensure optimal playability and sound quality. Additional responsibilities include bow rehairing, varnish touch-ups, and rental fleet maintenance. The technician will communicate with customers, provide repair estimates, and maintain detailed records of work performed. This position requires strong craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to supporting musicians by ensuring their instruments are in peak condition.
Popplers Music has an established customer base, including individual musicians, school districts, and educators. However, with the right person in this role, there is significant opportunity for growth—both in expanding relationships with school music programs and in building connections with orchestra musicians across the region.
Key Responsibilities:
- Diagnose and repair orchestra string instruments, including structural repairs, seam gluing, bridge and soundpost adjustments, fingerboard dressing, and varnish touch-ups.
- Perform bow rehairing and repairs, including tip replacements, grip installations, and camber adjustments.
- Set up and adjust instruments to ensure optimal playability, including string installation, peg fitting, and nut/saddle adjustments.
- Maintain accurate repair records, provide repair estimates, and communicate with customers about recommended services.
- Assist with the evaluation of rental fleet instruments and perform necessary maintenance to keep them in performance-ready condition.
- Stay up to date with industry best practices, tools, and repair techniques.
Qualifications:
- Experience in orchestral string instrument repair, either through formal training (such as a lutherie program) or significant hands-on experience.
- Knowledge of woodworking, varnishing, and instrument acoustics.
- Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a retail and repair environment.
- Excellent customer service and communication skills to explain repairs and maintenance to customers.
- Passion for music and supporting musicians.
Preffered Qualifications:
- Previous experience working in a violin shop, music store, or repair facility.
- Certification or training from a recognized luthier program or repair school.
- Experience working with schools and rental programs.
Schedule:
- Full-time position: 40 hours per week.
- Overtime is needed during busy season between July-September
- Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.
- Occasional Saturday shifts during parts of the school year.
Pay:
- Commission
Benefits:
- Company IRA retirement plan with employer match
- Health, Vision, Dental, Life Insurance
- Paid Time Off
- Employee discount
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- Day shift
- Monday to Friday
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person