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Apprentice Instrument Technician Jobs in Delaware

The SEFM Maintenance Technician position is primarily responsible for the proper operation of the ... Company sponsored instrument apprenticeship/qualification program. DESIRABLE Qualifications:

Apprentice Instrument Technician information

See Delaware salary details

$21

$32

$38

How much do apprentice instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice instrument technician in Delaware is $32.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.89 and $36.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice instrument technician?

Apprentice instrument technicians are entry-level professionals who work under the supervision of experienced technicians to learn how to install, maintain, and repair instruments and control systems used in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation. Their training typically involves hands-on work with equipment that measures and controls variables like pressure, temperature, and flow. The apprenticeship combines classroom instruction with practical, on-the-job experience, preparing them to become fully qualified instrument technicians.

What does an apprentice instrument technician do?

An apprentice instrument technician’s duties include installing and repairing electrical and mechanical controls under the supervision of a more senior technician. As an apprentice technician, you are training to use numerous tools to maintain and repair a variety of electrical systems and instruments, such as recording devices, control systems, drives, communication and data systems, counters, and speed indicators. You also learn health and safety operations and responsibilities related to handling industrial electrical equipment.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an apprentice instrument technician?

To thrive as an Apprentice Instrument Technician, you need a strong understanding of electrical and instrumentation principles, typically supported by a relevant technical diploma or vocational training. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, calibration devices, and industry-specific control systems like PLCs is usually required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate installation, maintenance, and repair of instrumentation systems critical to operational safety and efficiency.

What are common challenges faced by apprentice instrument technicians during their training period?

As an Apprentice Instrument Technician, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to the technical complexity of instrumentation systems and mastering the use of specialized diagnostic tools. Balancing hands-on tasks with theoretical learning can also be demanding, especially when working in fast-paced industrial environments. However, most employers provide structured mentorship and safety training to help you progressively build confidence and competence. Developing strong communication skills is also essential, as you'll often collaborate with engineers, electricians, and other technicians.

What is the difference between Apprentice Instrument Technician vs Instrument Technician?

AspectApprentice Instrument TechnicianInstrument Technician
CertificationsNone required initially; on-the-job trainingTypically requires technical certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, construction, or industrial settingsOperational industrial plants, maintenance facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with installation, maintenance, and learning proceduresPerforming maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of instruments

The main difference between an Apprentice Instrument Technician and an Instrument Technician is experience and certification level. Apprentices are in training, gaining skills on the job, while Instrument Technicians are fully qualified professionals responsible for maintaining and repairing instrumentation systems in industrial environments.

Are apprentice instrument technicians in demand?

Apprentice instrument technicians are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities, where skilled technicians are needed to install, maintain, and repair instrumentation systems. The demand is driven by ongoing infrastructure upgrades and the need for technical skills in automation and control systems. Opportunities often require relevant certifications and hands-on training.

How long does an instrumentation apprenticeship take?

An apprenticeship for an Instrumentation Technician typically lasts between 3 to 4 years, combining on-the-job training with classroom instruction. During this period, apprentices learn skills such as calibration, troubleshooting, and installation of instrumentation equipment, often earning certifications along the way.

How to get into an apprentice instrument technician?

To become an apprentice instrument technician, typically you need a high school diploma or equivalent, and some programs may require basic math and technical skills. You can apply through local trade schools, technical colleges, or directly with employers offering apprenticeship programs, which combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Certification or licensing is not always required initially but may be pursued later to advance in the field.

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What job categories do people searching Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs in Delaware look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs in Delaware are:

What cities in Delaware are hiring for Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs?

Cities in Delaware with the most Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings:

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Infographic showing various Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,439 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

SEFM Maintenance Technician

Astrazeneca

Newark, DE • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


AstraZeneca rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

The SEFM Maintenance Technician position is primarily responsible for the proper operation of the Site's facility-related control systems and instruments. Maintenance Technicians are required to provide technical support to the Maintenance Groups as well as to project engineers and supervisors working on a wide variety of facility and production-related capital projects.

Job Responsibilities (to include key result areas, specific accountabilities, tasks, etc.)

  • Fixing and repairing operational problems with facility-related equipment or systems.
  • Identification, installation, and testing of instrumentation.
  • Define PLC input and output requirements for facility and production equipment and other control systems.
  • Write and edit PLC/HMI programs. Install and test these programs.
  • Document all changes made to validated control systems as required by SOPs in SAP and MDT
  • Prepare software documentation to support validation work.
  • Provide technical support for all phases of equipment and system validation.
  • Review electrical drawings associated with new equipment procurement.
  • Assist engineering personnel with the development of project specifications for new equipment.
  • Act as technical liaison to contractor personnel who are performing activities on Site.
  • Support the site's capital program by participating in the design, review installation, and qualifying activities associated with capital projects.
  • Support the compliance needs of the site by completing, and assisting others with, any required Change Control Documentation associated with Safety, Health, and Environmental or cGMP issues.
  • Support the site improvement initiatives for root cause investigation and asset performance.
  • Write and follow SOPs for the use and maintenance of facility systems.
  • Support user requirement specifications development
  • Must be able to work or be on-call as needed during other/off shifts and weekends when facility, production, and/or equipment coverage is needed.
  • Provide support for 3-shift 24x7 operating production site.
  • Be available on call during off hours

ESSENTIAL Qualifications :

  • A High School Diploma or G.E.D.
  • A minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience
  • Thorough familiarity with the analysis and repair of electrical/electronic control systems.
  • Working knowledge of pneumatic systems.
  • Understanding of concepts used in control system design and elementary programming is required.
  • Ten (10) years of maintenance experience in troubleshooting, installation, and repair of electrical/electronic system
  • Strong organization, decision-making, judgment, and team-oriented skills are essential to manage numerous projects of variable complexity.
  • Solid interpersonal skills are required in order to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization in various functional areas.
  • Must possess strong written communication and documentation skills.
  • One or more of the below qualifications as related to Instrument Calibrations:
  • Successful completion of a post-secondary education program in metrology.
  • Demonstrated calibration experience in a government regulated industry such as pharmaceutical, nuclear or aviation.
  • Armed services experience and training in a calibration function
  • Professional certification from a nationally recognized body such as the Instrument Society of America (ISA)
  • Company sponsored instrument apprenticeship/qualification program.

DESIRABLE Qualifications:

  • Associate's Degree in a technical field and five (5) years of maintenance experience in troubleshooting, installation, and repair of electrical/electronic system.
  • Preferred background includes a thorough familiarity with the analysis and repair of electrical/electronic control systems and a working knowledge of pneumatic systems. Familiarity with HVAC controls, packaging, manufacturing and material handling equipment/systems is also desirable
  • Strong background in mathematics and computer applications to include database management software and PLC/HMI operations

Date Posted

28-Oct-2025

Closing Date

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.


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About AstraZeneca

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we're more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. A place built on courage, curiosity and collaboration - we make bold decisions driven by patient outcomes. Empowered to lead at every level, free to ask questions and take smart risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline and Oncology team. Make a meaningful impact that brings real benefits to society. By applying your knowledge of data, you will help to redefine our industry and ultimately save lives. Work with experts who share a common goal: to accelerate the potential of medicines and the science of tomorrow.

Industry

Pharmaceutical product wholesalers and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, GB