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Apprentice Instrumentation Technician Jobs in California

Calibrate and tune transmitters and field instrumentation * Ensure features are tuned and operating ... Formal apprenticeship, technical qualification, or degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics ...

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Apprentice Instrumentation Technician information

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$21

$31

$38

How much do apprentice instrumentation technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice instrumentation technician in California is $31.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.46 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an apprentice instrumentation technician?

Apprentice Instrumentation Technicians are entry-level workers who assist in installing, maintaining, and repairing instruments and control systems in various industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, and utilities. They work under the supervision of experienced technicians and learn to handle equipment that measures and controls variables like pressure, flow, and temperature. Apprenticeships typically combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing apprentices to develop both practical and theoretical skills needed for the role. Over time, they gain experience and knowledge that prepares them for more advanced positions as fully qualified instrumentation technicians.

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

To thrive as an Apprentice Instrumentation Technician, you need a solid understanding of electrical and electronic principles, basic math skills, and typically a high school diploma or technical training in instrumentation. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, calibrators, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), along with safety certifications like OSHA, is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and strong teamwork skills help apprentices excel in troubleshooting and collaborating on technical projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate instrument calibration, safe operations, and effective maintenance in industrial environments.

What are common challenges faced by apprentice instrumentation technicians on the job?

As an Apprentice Instrumentation Technician, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing technologies and working safely in hazardous industrial environments. Balancing hands-on learning with technical theory can be demanding, especially when troubleshooting complex instrumentation systems for the first time. Additionally, collaborating effectively with experienced technicians, engineers, and other trades is essential for success, as much of the work is performed in multidisciplinary teams. Embracing feedback and seeking guidance will help you overcome these challenges and progress in your apprenticeship.

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

AspectApprentice Instrumentation TechnicianInstrumentation Technician
CertificationsMay have basic technical certifications or none; on-the-job trainingTypically holds relevant certifications or licenses, such as a diploma or technical certification
Work EnvironmentUnder supervision, learning on-site in industrial or manufacturing settingsPerforms maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting independently in industrial environments
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with installation, basic troubleshooting, and learning instrumentation systemsMaintaining, repairing, and calibrating instrumentation equipment independently

The main difference between an Apprentice Instrumentation Technician and an Instrumentation Technician is experience and responsibility level. Apprentices are in training, working under supervision, while Instrumentation Technicians are fully qualified professionals performing maintenance and troubleshooting independently.

How long does an apprenticeship for instrumentation technician 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 working with control systems, often earning certifications along the way.

Is an apprentice instrumentation technician in high demand?

Apprentice instrumentation technicians are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities, where skilled technicians are needed to install, maintain, and repair control systems and instrumentation. The demand is driven by ongoing infrastructure upgrades and technological advancements, often requiring certifications and hands-on training. Job prospects are generally favorable for those with technical skills and a willingness to learn on the job.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation Technician jobs in California?

The most popular types of Instrumentation Technician jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Apprentice Instrumentation Technician jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Apprentice Instrumentation Technician jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Apprentice Instrumentation Technician jobs?

Cities in California with the most Apprentice Instrumentation Technician job openings:

Infographic showing various Apprentice Instrumentation Technician job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $66,499 per year, or $32 per hour.

Plant Process Control Supervisor-25706809

County of San Diego

San Diego, CA • On-site

$99K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Supervise the performance of complex electrical duties related to electro-mechanical equipment and control systems at wastewater and water treatment plants, and pumping facilities.

  • Coordinate and participate in design, modifications, and programming or software improvements on computerized electrical system control and data acquisition operations.

  • Direct subordinate staff in complex aspects such as Programmable Logic Controllers and Variable Frequency Drives.


County Of San Luis Obispo rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

387th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Summary County of San Diego Department of Public Works Plant Process Control Supervisor Interviews will take place on an ongoing basis. The starting salary for this position will be based on the candidate's qualifications at time of appointment. Future Salary Increases ** July 2027 - 4.1% increase to base pay (3.0% Across-the-Board + 1.10% Market Increase) When you drive on county roads, fly from a neighborhood airport, or pull over for that snowplow on your way to Julian, you have interacted with our department

Your safety and convenience matter to us, and we make sure nearly 2,000 miles of roadways, bridges and guardrails, signs, traffic signals and crosswalks are ready for you, as well as the eight County airports we operate including McClellan-Palomar, Gillespie Field and Ramona. Our vast network of sewage pipes and pump stations, flood channels and water detention facilities keep things flowing for you all year long. During storm events, we keep the channels and drains clear to minimize flooding.

Nearly all your county public infrastructure is designed, built, managed or operated by our team. We stand for safe communities, sustainable environments, and healthy families. Come and be a part of our team.

Plant Process Control Supervisors supervise the performance of complex electrical duties related to electro-mechanical equipment and control systems at wastewater and water treatment plants, and pumping facilities. As a Plant Process Control Supervisor, you will coordinate and participate in design, modifications, and make programming and software improvements on computerized electrical system control and data acquisition operations required to interface with process control computers. This includes directing subordinate staff in the more difficult and complex aspects such as Programable Logic Controllers and Variable Frequency Drives and to perform related work.

Please read the Plant Process Control Supervisor job description for more information. Hiring Process and Timeline: The timeline for this recruitment is outlined below. i.

Job Offer and Background Process begins: Shortly after the interviews. Note: Current County employees may be excluded from additional background screening. ii.

Pre-employment Medical Screening: Approximately 3 days following successful background investigation results. iii. Anticipated Start Date: Start date will be based upon successful completion of medical screening or other mutually agreed upon date.

If you are not selected for this interview process, you may have the opportunity to compete for future vacancies. Minimum Qualifications 1. Successful completion of a State accredited four-year minimum Electrician or Electronics Technician Apprenticeship Program, AND two (2) years of experience in all phases of work as a journey-level Electrician or Electronics Technician, which includes one (1) year of experience serving as a Plant Process Control Electrician, Instrumentation and Control Technician, or equivalent, within a Water or Wastewater Facility; OR, 2.

Six (6) years of experience in all phases of work as a journey-level Electrician or Electronics Technician, which includes one (1) year of experience as a Plant Process Control Electrician, Instrumentation and Control Technician, or equivalent, within a Water or Wastewater Facility; OR, 3. An associate's degree from an accredited U.S. college or university, or a certified foreign studies equivalency, in Electronics Technology, AND four (4) years of experience in all phases of work as a journey-level Electronics Technician, which includes one (1) year of experience serving as an Instrumentation and Control Technician within a Water or Wastewater Facility

Notes The possession of a Grade III or IV Plant Maintenance Electrical/Instrumentation (E/I) issued by the California Water Environment Association (CWEA) is highly desirable. Blind Applicant Screening The Department of Human Resources removes personally identifiable information from all new recruitments. This practice, called Blind Applicant Screening, will hide a candidate's personal information that could influence or bias a hiring decision.

Personal information includes name, phone number, address, gender, age and race. This process will help contribute to a fair and equitable selection process leading to a more diverse and inclusive workforce. The most highly qualified candidates, based on the evaluation results, will be referred for an interview.

Be sure to include your experience in meeting the minimum requirements in both the Work Experience section and the Supplemental Questionnaire section of the Application. Conditions of Employment As part of the County of San Diego's pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position.

Current County employees may be excluded from this process. Evaluation The names of qualified applicants will be placed on a six (6) month employment list based upon scores received during the evaluation of information contained in their employment application and supplemental questionnaire. Accommodation Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions of the job, on a case-by-case basis.

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization.

Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans. Veteran's Preference Policy The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information.

Military Skills Translator Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience. This tool can help. Please go to the Military Skills Translator to access the tool.

Strategic Plan The County of San Diego and its employees embrace the vision of a just, sustainable, and resilient future for all. Our values include integrity, equity, access, belonging, excellence, and sustainability. Each of which are infused throughout our operations.

While also embracing a mission of strengthening our communities with innovative, inclusive, and data driven services through a skilled and supported workforce. Please see the Strategic Plan for more information. Disaster Service Worker Under California Government Code Sections 3100 - 3109, public employees are designated as disaster service workers.

The term "public employees" includes all persons employed by the state or any county, city, state agency, or public district. Disaster service workers are required to participate in such disaster service activities as may be assigned to them by their employer or by law. Diversity & Inclusion The County of San Diego is committed to valuing diversity and practicing inclusion because our diverse workforce is our greatest asset and our customers are our number one priority.


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