The Gibson Certified Vintage Repair Technician supports the acquisition, evaluation, maintenance, repair, and preservation of vintage Gibson instruments within the Gibson Certified Vintage program. This role combines hands-on bench work with intake evaluation, repair consultation, and operational support to ensure instruments are accurately assessed, appropriately maintained, and presented at the highest standard.
The ideal candidate possesses strong guitar repair skills, a working knowledge of vintage Gibson instruments, and an appreciation for historically appropriate repair practices. This role serves as an active member of the Gibson Certified Vintage team, supporting everything from instrument intake and acquisition review to setup, maintenance, repair coordination, and final sale preparation.
The Gibson Certified Vintage Repair Technician works closely with the Gibson Certified Vintage Manager and internal and external repair resources to determine appropriate repair approaches, balancing playability, originality, and long-term preservation of valuable vintage instruments.
Essential Functions
Instrument Evaluation & Inventory Support
- Evaluate incoming instruments for condition, playability, repair needs, and overall readiness for certification and sale.
- Support acquisition reviews by providing repair recommendations and repair cost estimates.
- Assist with intake inspections, documentation, and ongoing condition assessments of Gibson Certified Vintage inventory.
- Collaborate with the Gibson Certified Vintage team to determine appropriate maintenance and repair strategies for vintage instruments.
Repair & Maintenance
- Perform setups, fretwork, structural repairs, electronics service, hardware restoration, and general maintenance on vintage Gibson instruments.
- Execute repairs in a manner that balances playability, originality, and long-term preservation.
- Maintain sale-ready condition of Gibson Certified Vintage inventory.
- Coordinate specialized repair work with internal departments and approved external service providers as needed.
Documentation & Program Support
- Maintain accurate repair records, service documentation, and instrument history.
- Track repair status and inventory readiness to support certification, photography, and sale.
- Assist with preparation of instruments for photography, documentation, certification, and sale.
- Support special projects, events, and program initiatives as needed.
- Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Work closely with the Gibson Certified Vintage Manager on acquisitions, inventory planning, and repair prioritization.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support inventory readiness, sales efforts, and program initiatives.
- Participate in educational, social media, and marketing content when appropriate.
Required Skills/Abilities
- Strong guitar repair and maintenance skills across both electric and acoustic instruments.
- Experience performing fretwork, setups, structural repairs, electronics service, and general restoration work.
- Ability to evaluate instrument condition and identify repair needs while considering originality and historical significance.
- Strong attention to detail when working with high-value vintage instruments.
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple instruments and projects simultaneously.
- Strong documentation and organizational skills.
- Effective communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work independently while maintaining alignment with team objectives.
- Valid driver's license and ability to safely transport instruments between company and service locations.
Required Education and Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Formal lutherie training, repair certification, or equivalent practical experience preferred.
- 3-7 years of guitar repair, restoration, or related bench experience.
- Experience working with vintage instruments strongly preferred.
- Experience in specialty retail, repair shops, manufacturing, or related environments preferred.
Essential Knowledge
- Strong working knowledge of guitar construction, setup, repair, and maintenance practices.
- Working knowledge of vintage Gibson instruments, materials, construction methods, and historically appropriate repair techniques.
- Understanding of the importance of originality, provenance, and preservation when servicing vintage instruments.
- Demonstrated desire to continue building expertise in vintage Gibson products and repair practices.
Personal Qualities
- Ownership-driven and dependable, with a strong sense of accountability.
- Comfortable balancing hands-on repair work with operational responsibilities.
- Detail-oriented and quality-focused.
- Adaptable and effective in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
- Collaborative, professional, and team-oriented.
- Passion for guitars, music, and craftsmanship.
Travel Requirements
- This position is Nashville-based and primarily onsite.
- Minimal local travel may be required to support repair coordination, inventory movement, and program needs.
Physical Demands
- Primarily onsite in a repair, retail, warehouse, and office environment.
- Frequent handling of guitars and related equipment.
- Ability to lift and carry items up to 40-50 lbs as needed.
- Extended periods of standing, walking, and bench work.
- Frequent use of hand tools, repair equipment, and computer-based systems.
- Ability to work in a loud retail or workshop environment for extended periods.
- Flexible schedule required, including occasional evenings and weekends to support program needs.