Apprentice Instrumentation Technician Jobs in California

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team 

The Instrumentation, Controls & Electrical (IC&E) team supports the installation, commissioning, maintenance, calibration, testing, and troubleshooting of instrumentation, controls, and electrical systems across Valar Atomics facilities and projects. The team works closely with Engineering, Operations, and other field disciplines to safely build, operate, and maintain reliable plant systems. 

The Role 

The Instrumentation & Electrical Apprentice is a developmental, hands-on position designed to build the technical knowledge and field experience required to become a qualified I&E Technician. Working under the direction of experienced IC&E personnel, the apprentice will gain experience across instrumentation, controls, and electrical disciplines while supporting installation, calibration, testing, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities. The ideal candidate is mechanically and technically inclined, safety focused, dependable, willing to learn, and interested in developing a long-term career in IC&E.

Key Responsibilities 

• Assist with installation, maintenance, testing, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation, controls, and electrical equipment.
• Assist with installation and termination of conduit, cable, wiring, control panels, instruments, and electrical equipment.
• Learn to read and interpret electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, loop drawings, P&IDs, datasheets, and other technical documentation. 
• Develop proficiency using digital multimeters, process calibrators, and other IC&E test equipment.
• Assist with calibration and functional testing of transmitters, switches, sensors, control valves, and other field instrumentation.
• Develop an understanding of industrial signals and control systems, including 4-20 mA circuits, discrete signals, RTDs, thermocouples, and basic control loops.
• Support equipment startup, commissioning, loop checks, and system functional testing.
• Assist experienced technicians with troubleshooting electrical, instrumentation, and control system issues.
• Properly document completed work, calibration results, testing, deficiencies, and equipment information.
• Maintain IC&E tools, test equipment, materials, and work areas.
• Follow applicable safety requirements, procedures, work controls, and company standards.
• Participate in technical training and demonstrate continued development in instrumentation, controls, and electrical competencies.
• Work collaboratively with IC&E personnel, Engineering, Operations, and other trades. 
• Perform additional IC&E-related duties as assigned based on project and operational needs. 

Basic Qualifications  

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
• Demonstrated interest in instrumentation, controls, electrical, electronics, industrial maintenance, or a related technical trade.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and ability to safely use hand and power tools.
• Ability and willingness to learn electrical and instrumentation fundamentals.
• Ability to follow written procedures, technical instructions, and direction from qualified personnel.
• Strong safety mindset and willingness to stop and ask questions when unsure.
• Dependable, accountable, and able to work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to work in an industrial environment and perform the physical requirements associated with field IC&E work.
• Willingness to work varying schedules and travel to project locations as required 

What We Offer  

• Competitive base salary 
• Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
• Comprehensive medical benefits 
• Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
• Generous PPE stipend
• High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
• Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
• Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
• The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).