Join the Isthmus Instruments Team
Crafting Sound. Building Community. Making a Positive Impact.
Why Work at Isthmus Instruments?
Passion for Craftsmanship
We take pride in our handcrafted handpans, ensuring every instrument meets our high standards of quality, sound, and playability. Each team member plays a vital role in bringing music to life.
A Growing Company
We’re expanding! With a growing team and evolving product lines, we offer exciting opportunities for professional development and creativity. Whether you’re an artisan, an engineer, or a marketing expert, there’s room for you to grow with us.
Innovation & Creativity
We thrive on innovation, whether it’s designing new handpan scales, developing unique accessories, or exploring cutting-edge techniques in sound design.
People-First Culture
We are a small but mighty team that values collaboration, respect, and open communication. Our workplace is inclusive, supportive, and designed to help you do your best work while enjoying the journey.
Competitive Benefits
We invest in our employees' well-being and future with:
Health Reimbursement Arrangements (HRA) for eligible employees
Retirement plan options to help secure your financial future
A team-driven environment where your contributions make an impact
Flexible scheduling, including part-time positions
Our Core Values
Craftsmanship & Excellence – Every handpan we make is built with care, precision, and passion.
Community & Connection – We’re not just building instruments; we’re fostering a global network of musicians.
Innovation & Creativity – We’re always exploring new ways to push the boundaries of sound and design.
Integrity & Quality – We do things the right way, ensuring the highest standards in everything we create.
Our Work Ethic: Built on Hard Work, Growth, and Excellence
At Isthmus Instruments, we believe that the best work is hard work. We take immense pride in our craft, our customer experience, and our commitment to excellence. Our team is made up of individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, where every day presents new challenges and opportunities for growth.
If you are someone who:
Takes pride in working hard and consistently delivering quality results
Works efficiently and values timeliness, ensuring projects and tasks are completed on schedule
Pays close attention to detail, whether in craftsmanship, customer service, or marketing
Is self-motivated and driven, always looking for ways to improve and go beyond the basic requirements of the job
Seeks continuous growth, developing new skills and advancing within the company
…then you might be a great fit for Isthmus Instruments.
We don’t believe in simply “doing the job.” We believe in mastering our work, pushing our limits, and always striving to be better—both as individuals and as a company. Employees who excel here are those who embrace new challenges, take initiative, and are committed to personal and professional development.
In return, we offer an environment where hard work is recognized, where team members are encouraged to take on new responsibilities, and where there are opportunities to grow within the company. Whether you're crafting instruments, managing sales, or driving our marketing efforts, your contribution will directly impact our success.
If you’re ready to work hard, grow fast, and be part of something meaningful, Isthmus Instruments is the place for you.
Opportunities at Isthmus Instruments
We are always looking for talented people to join our team! Our opportunities may include:
Handpan Musical Instrument Builder & Tuner Apprentice
Customer Experience & Sales Associate
Shop Hand & Shipping
Sales & Store Manager
Marketing & Content Creator
Marketing or Ecommerce Manager (Senior Level)
If you don’t see the perfect role for you, we still encourage you to apply. We value passionate, skilled individuals who are excited about what we do.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume and cover letter by filling out the contact form on our website. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out—we’d love to hear from you!
Location: Madison, Wisconsin, USA
Hear From Our Team
"Working at Isthmus Instruments is more than just a job—it’s being part of a creative community that truly cares about music and craftsmanship." – Max J.
"I love being part of a team and working here- it’s a dream come true." – Joe K.
Isthmus handpan in Iceland
Be Part of Something Bigger
At Isthmus Instruments, you’re not just joining a company—you’re joining a movement. A movement to bring this new sound into the world and to make music more accessible to people everywhere.
Ready to make your mark? Apply today and become part of our journey.
Isthmus handpan in Peru
General Questions
What is Isthmus Instruments?
Isthmus Instruments is a musical instrument company specializing in the craftsmanship and sales of high-quality handpans. Founded in 2013, we build handcrafted instruments in Madison, Wisconsin, and foster a global community of musicians.
What types of careers are available at Isthmus Instruments?
We offer a variety of music industry jobs, including:
Handpan Musical Instrument Builder & Tuner Apprentice – Perfect for those interested in instrument craftsmanship and tuning techniques.
Customer Experience & Sales Associate – A great opportunity for those looking for music sales jobs and customer engagement in the music industry.
Shop Hand & Shipping – Ideal for individuals who enjoy working in a hands-on, production-based environment with a passion for musical instruments.
Sales & Store Manager – A leadership role for those experienced in music sales, retail management, and customer relations.
Marketing & Content Creator – A perfect position for someone with skills in music marketing, content creation for musicians, and brand storytelling.
Marketing or Ecommerce Manager (Senior Level) – This role focuses on growing our online presence, increasing sales through digital marketing, and managing ecommerce for musical instruments.
Do I need experience in the music industry to work at Isthmus Instruments?
While experience in the music industry is beneficial for some roles, it is not required for all positions. We value craftsmanship, sales experience, creativity, and a willingness to learn.
Where is Isthmus Instruments located?
Our workshop and headquarters are located in Madison, Wisconsin. Some positions, such as marketing and ecommerce roles, may have remote work opportunities.
Shipping & Logistics Roles
What does a Shop Hand & Shipping role involve?
This position supports workshop operations, shipping logistics, and quality control. You’ll help package and ship handpans safely to customers worldwide while helping manufacture instruments in our Madison workshop.
What skills are helpful for this role?
Organization and attention to detail
Ability to lift and handle packages
Interest in musical instrument production
Handpan Maker & Tuner Apprentice
What does a Handpan Musical Instrument Builder & Tuner Apprentice do?
This role involves learning the art of handpan building, shaping, tuning, and finishing. Apprentices work alongside experienced handpan makers to ensure that each instrument meets our high standards of musical craftsmanship.
Do I need prior experience in instrument building?
No previous experience is required, but experience in metalwork, percussion instruments, or music production is a plus. We provide on-the-job training for this specialized skill.
What skills are useful for this role?
A passion for musical instruments and sound quality
Attention to detail and craftsmanship
A willingness to learn metal shaping and tuning techniques
Hand-eye coordination and patience
Music Sales & Customer Experience Roles
What does a Customer Experience & Sales Associate do?
This role is ideal for those seeking music sales jobs. Responsibilities include helping musicians choose the right handpan, handling customer inquiries, and supporting sales both online and in-store.
What makes a great candidate for music sales?
Strong customer service and sales skills
Passion for musical instruments and working with musicians
Knowledge of ecommerce platforms and social media marketing is a plus
Is prior experience in sales necessary?
Not necessary, but a musical background like a BS in music business, or musical performance is preferred, with experience in musical instrument sales, retail, or online music stores being helpful.
Marketing & Ecommerce Roles
What does a Marketing & Content Creator do?
This role involves creating engaging content for our blog, social media, and website, including videos, articles, and product descriptions that connect with musicians and music enthusiasts.
What does a Sales. Marketing or Ecommerce Manager do?
These are advanced positions focused on managing our digital marketing strategy, optimizing ecommerce sales, and growing our brand in the music industry.
What are the key responsibilities for an Sales or Ecommerce Manager in the music industry?
Managing sales processes, including our online store and digital marketing campaigns
Driving traffic for musical instrument sales
Running email marketing and social media advertising
Analyzing customer data to improve ecommerce performance
Do I need experience in music marketing or ecommerce?
Yes, ideal sales candidates should have a minimum of 3+ years experience, while 5+ years in digital marketing & ecommerce for other roles.
How to Apply
To apply for any of these roles:
Fill out our contact form on the careers page
Submit your resume and cover letter
If your skills and experience align with our needs, we will reach out for an interview
Location: Madison, Wisconsin (some remote positions available)