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Apprentice Instrument Technician Jobs in Philadelphia, PA

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Apprentice Instrument Technician information

See Philadelphia, PA salary details

$21

$32

$38

How much do apprentice instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice instrument technician in Philadelphia, PA is $32.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.85 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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Apprentice Instrument Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Apprentice Instrument Technician job openings in Philadelphia, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,993 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Instrumentation and Controls Apprentice

Endress+Hauser Gruppe

Newtown Square, PA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

At Endress+Hauser, progress happens by working together. As the global leader in measurement instrumentation, our ~17,000 employees shape the future in the field of process automation. Whether developing and realizing new technology as a team, collaborating to build instrumentation, or strengthening vital relationships with countless global industries, we work to create trusted relationships that help everyone thrive. As a family-owned company, we look beyond short-term moves and work to create a vision that is forward-thinking for our people, our clients, and the world at large.   

What is the role about? 

Eastern Controls Inc., a manufacturer's representative partner of Endress+Hauser Inc. is seeking an Instrumentation and Control Apprentice to support real-world industrial solutions, learn our products from the ground up, and work closely with sales and customers. If you are technically curious, detail-oriented, and ready to grow, this role was built for you. 

The Instrumentation and Control Apprentice role is a 2-3 year program beginning August 2026. Apprentices learn to install, maintain, and repair electrical and control systems used in industries across the region. This will include in-classroom and on the job training including but not limited to field-based activities such as calibration checks, proper installation of equipment, troubleshooting and repair of instruments and other equipment. 

Which tasks will you perform? 

  • Install, maintain & repair instrumentation systems
  • Calibrate and test equipment (temperature, pressure, flow, level)
  • Troubleshoot electrical/control issues
  • Work with PLCs and real industrial equipment
  • Train alongside experienced journey workers and technicians

What do we expect from you? 

You will have (required): 

  • Applicants must be 18+ years old 
  • High school diploma or GED 
  • Valid driver's license 

You may have (preferred):  

  • Interest in electronics, tools, or hands-on work 
  • Self-motivated, solid work ethic, excellent attendance and desire to learn 
  • Excellent communication skills 
  • (No prior experience required - we train you.) 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK CONDITIONS 

  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
  • Some environments can be inside or outside, temperatures are equivalent to the outside air or room temperatures, lighting can vary based on location but generally no additional lighting is required. There are also occasions where you will be in a typical office environment
  • Individuals may need to stand and sit for long periods of time
  • May require walking primarily on a level surface for periodic periods throughout the day. Climbing on ladders, scaffolding, tanks, etc. or confined spaces to access the equipment
  • Reaching above shoulder heights, below the waist or lifting as required in order complete the required work. Proper lifting techniques required. May include lifting up to 50 pounds on occasion

What can you expect from us? 

  • Full-time compensation while you learn 
  • Classroom training + real job-site experience
  • Nationally recognized credential upon program completion
  • Strong career growth + high earning potential
  • Generous benefits including health insurance, 401k, PTO

About Eastern Controls 

Since 1969, Eastern Controls has been the leading manufacturer representative, distributor, and service provider of process measurement and control equipment serving Metro New York, Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and Ohio. We are headquartered in Edgemont, PA with two other manufacturing/service facilities located in Virginia and Maryland. Our expertise covers the full spectrum of primary process variable measurements and control. Our strong relationship with our manufacturing partners has enabled us to deliver cutting-edge products and technologies which ensure that your process will run safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively. 

Eastern Controls is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected classification including protected veteran and disability status. 

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