Luthier & Workshop Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Description

T2 is a division of Tarisio, designed specifically for the violin trade. As a leading international venue for fine instruments and bows, Tarisio has revolutionized the market since its launch in 1999 by combining first-class expertise, efficient online bidding and a firm commitment to ethics and professionalism. T2 upholds this tradition, focusing on instruments and bows that require restoration, have uncertain attributions, or originate from a trade workshop. Estimates are set at wholesale prices, and the instruments are presented in an efficient and professional venue, thereby furthering the organization's mission to make buying and selling instruments increasingly accessible for musicians of all levels.

The Luthier & Workshop Assistant supports the preparation and presentation of auction inventory at our T2 site. This role combines hands-on instrument care with cataloguing, documentation, and production support to ensure instruments are accurately represented and ready for sale. Working closely with the Production Manager, you will assist with light lutherie, condition reporting, photography coordination, and inventory oversight. You will also help maintain an organised, efficient workshop environment while contributing to a smooth and timely auction cycle. 

• Perform light maintenance, setups, and adjustments to prepare instruments and bows for auction
• Monitor instrument condition during viewing and sales periods, addressing minor issues as needed
• Respond to condition-related queries by providing measurements, notes, and supplementary photographs
• Prepare clear, accurate condition reports and support full cataloguing of instruments and bows
• Assist with photography coordination and technical documentation
• Administer dendrochronology requests as needed
• Identify and record regulated or endangered species materials (CITES/USFWS compliance)
• Support intake processes in coordination with the Production Manager to ensure efficient workflow
• Maintain an organised showroom and workshop, including bench hygiene and storage standards
• Order and manage workshop supplies and consumables
• Assist with production checklists, quality control processes, and auction preparation tasks
• Provide occasional front-of-house or viewing-period support during peak catalogue cycles

The ideal candidate has a foundation in lutherie or string instrument care and enjoys balancing bench work with documentation and production support. They bring strong attention to detail, sound judgment, and a practical approach to problem-solving. Comfortable working to deadlines, they remain calm and collaborative in a small-team environment. They communicate clearly, take pride in careful instrument handling, and contribute positively to an organised and efficient workshop. An interest in fine instruments and bows is essential, and familiarity with condition reporting, photography workflows, or inventory systems is preferred. 

• 2+ years of professional workshop experience in violin-family instruments or string instrument care; formal training preferred
• Demonstrated skill in setups, tonal adjustments, basic repairs, and light restoration work, including crack repair, edge work, seam gluing, fingerboard work, and bridge/soundpost fitting
• Ability to evaluate instrument condition and prior repairs, producing clear, concise condition reports with supporting photography
• Familiarity with traditional materials and methods (e.g., hide glue, cleats, retouch) and safe workshop tool practices
• Strong organisational skills and documentation discipline, with the ability to manage tasks effectively during auction preparation periods
• Adaptability to shift between bench work, reporting, and production support responsibilities
• Collaborative mindset, high ethical standards, and a strong commitment to quality

Core Competencies

• Customer Focus - Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions
• Plans and Aligns - Planning and prioritizing work to meet commitments aligned with organization goals
• Manages Complexity - Making sense of complex, high quantity, and sometimes contradictory information
• Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives
• Communicates Effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences

• Medical, Dental & Vision
• Basic Life
• AD&D
• Disability
• 401(K) Program

Red Clover is a New Jersey based outsourced strategic Human Resources firm managing the recruitment process on behalf of a client.