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Apprentice Instrument Technician Jobs in Nebraska

Apprentice Instrument Technician information

See Nebraska salary details

$20

$30

$37

How much do apprentice instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice instrument technician in Nebraska is $30.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.50 and $34.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are apprentice instrument technicians?

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 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.

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Instrument Technician, and why are they important?

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 some 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.
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Infographic showing various Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings in Nebraska as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $64,244 per year, or $30.9 per hour.
Mechanic 2nd Class Electronics

Mechanic 2nd Class Electronics

Phibro Animal Health Corporation

Willow Island, NE • On-site

$34.39 - $38.21/hr

Other

Posted 24 days ago


Phibro Animal Health Corporation rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Phibro Animal Health Corporation

Phibro Animal Health Corporation is a publicly traded, global organization with a rich history in animal health and nutrition as a manufacturer and marketer of medicated feed additives, vaccines, nutritional specialty products, and mineral nutrition. We strive to be a trusted partner with livestock producers, farmers, veterinarians, and consumers who raise or care for farm and companion animals by providing solutions to help them maintain and enhance the health of their animals.

Phibro is a diversified company in manufacturing and marketing products for ethanol performance, microbials for plants, home and industrial applications, and specialty chemicals for various industrial markets. In addition to, Phibro's revenues are in excess of $1 billion and are supported by over 2,400 employees worldwide.

At Phibro, people are our greatest asset. We strive to develop a diverse workforce that fosters an environment where people feel supported in openly sharing their creativity and skills that allows them to be the most successful that they can be.

If you are interested in working for Phibro and feel that you do not meet all qualifications, we encourage you to apply as you might be the right candidate for this role or other positions.

The Mechanic 2nd Class Electronics is an integral part of our Maintenance team based out of our US - Willow Island, WV (UNION USW - 0499) site.

Hourly rate range for this position is $34.39 - $38.21  

Position Details

This position provides support to the Maintenance Department by repairing, maintaining, and installing instrumentation, electrical phases, and controls of the plant.  Electronic Mechanics designated as a 1st Class Electronics Mechanic must be able to perform and/or assist with all principal functional responsibilities without direction by another Electronics Mechanic.

Key Responsibilities
  • Troubleshoots, calibrates, and installs the following systems and instrumentation:
    • Electrical Systems
    • Electric Motors
    • Variable Frequency Drives
    • HVAC Systems
    • Chillers
    • Electrical, Pneumatic, Lab, and Safety Instrumentation
    • Electronic and Mechanical Scales
    • Process Logic Communication (PLC's -Allen Bradley)
    • Distributed Control Systems (DCS's - Honeywell)
  • Repairs and maintains the following equipment: Conduit, Elevators, Vari Drive Units, Substations, Breaker Panels, Switches, Receptacles, Starter Panels, Pressure Regulators, pH and DO probes, off gas analyzers, critical instrument calibration, routine instrument PMs, and Electrical components on tow motors and lift trucks.
  • Works with engineers on installing and maintaining experimental equipment.
  • Installs and removes safety valves and rupture disks.
  • Changes (electrical) motors all sizes from 1hp to 200 hp.
  • Repairs lighting.
Technical Skills Requirements
  • Solid mechanical abilities
  • Solid troubleshooting skills
  • Excellent attention to detail
  • Strong decision-making ability
  • Understanding of the Hazards of Electricity and Electronics
  • Familiarity with NFPA 70-E
  • Understanding of ASME Relief Valve Procedure
  • Strong interpersonal and oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a self-directed team environment.
  • Ability to access all areas of the plant.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Computer proficiency: email; internet/online training; working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
  • Familiarity with maintenance and/or ERP software (e.g. SAP) and calibration systems.
Key Competencies
Attendance and Punctuality
Collaborative
Communicating Effectively
Critical Thinking
Following Policies and Procedures
Managing Time
Performing Physical or Mechanical Tasks
Problem Solving
Working Safely
Skills
Able to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner.
Acceptable attendance to meet all company standards and requirements.
Proven ability to work effectively in a team environment.
Able to operate machines and power equipment.
Able to use hand and mechanical tools and equipment effectively to accomplish desired results.
Able to satisfactorily complete all safety related training required to execute job functions.
Education & Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent.  West Virginia Master's Electricians License or Technical Degree, Journeyman Apprenticeship, or equivalent experience.  Two to five (2-5) years of experience in a manufacturing environment as an Instrument Technician or Electrician.

Physical Requirements
Required to bend occasionally
Required to climb occasionally
Required to squat or kneel frequently
Required to stand frequently
Required to talk or hear constantly
Required to use hands constantly
Required to walk frequently

To learn more about Phibro Animal Health's competitive benefits package, please click here: Phibro Benefits

Phibro is an Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, marital status or any other characteristics protected by law.

Business Unit: Animal Health & Mineral Nutrition   
Division: Animal Health & Nutrition 
Department: Maintenance 
Location: US - Willow Island, WV (UNION USW - 0499) 
Work Schedule: Monday - Friday (Standard Work hours) 
 


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