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Automation Instrumentation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hawk Group

SCADA Automation Technician

Mansfield, LA · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

SCADA Automation Technician Our Vision: RigUp is where the best workers power the world's most ... The ideal candidate has experience working with industrial automation systems, instrumentation ...

Danos, LLC

Automation Technician

Mentone, TX

$41K/yr

The Automation Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, troubleshooting, and ... Diagnose electrical and instrumentation issues using testing equipment. * Support startup and ...

Vanzandt Controls

Automation Technician

Odessa, TX · On-site

$37K/yr

VanZandt controls is a premier distributor of valve automation, flow measurement, instrumentation ... VanZandt Controls and Eagle Automation has openings for Automation Technicians to expand our ...

Vanzandt Controls

Automation Technician

Odessa, TX · On-site

$37K/yr

VanZandt controls is a premier distributor of valve automation, flow measurement, instrumentation ... VanZandt Controls and Eagle Automation has openings for Automation Technicians to expand our ...

VanZandt Controls

Automation Technician

Odessa, TX

$37K/yr

VanZandt controls is a premier distributor of valve automation, flow measurement, instrumentation ... VanZandt Controls and Eagle Automation has openings for Automation Technicians to expand our ...

ABEC Inc

Automation Technician

Springfield, MO

$35K/yr

Troubleshoot automation, controls, and process instrumentation issues * Configure and support ... technician with a passion for controls, instrumentation, and problem-solving, we'd love to meet you.

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Automation Instrumentation Technician information

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$37.5K

$45.6K

$71K

How much do automation instrumentation technician jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation instrumentation technician in the United States is $45,556.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,000.00 and $42,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Automation Instrumentation Technician do?

An Automation Instrumentation Technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems used to automate industrial processes. They work with sensors, transmitters, control valves, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) to ensure equipment operates efficiently and safely. Their role is critical in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals, where precise control and monitoring of processes are essential.

Where do instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Instrumentation technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or manufacturing presence, such as areas with oil and gas, chemical plants, or large-scale manufacturing facilities. Salaries are also higher in locations with a higher cost of living and demand for specialized skills, such as experience with PLCs, calibration, and control systems. Certification and experience can further increase earning potential regardless of location.

What are some common challenges Automation Instrumentation Technicians face when troubleshooting automated systems?

Automation Instrumentation Technicians often encounter challenges such as diagnosing issues in complex, integrated control systems where multiple components can contribute to a single problem. Troubleshooting can require a deep understanding of both hardware (sensors, transmitters, controllers) and software (PLC programming, SCADA systems). Additionally, technicians must frequently work under time pressure to minimize downtime, which demands effective communication with engineers and operators to quickly identify and resolve faults. Staying current with rapidly evolving technology and safety standards is also an ongoing challenge in this role.

What is the highest paid technician?

In the field of automation and instrumentation, senior technicians with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) tend to earn the highest salaries. Factors like industry, location, and level of responsibility also influence compensation, with some senior or lead technicians earning over $80,000 annually.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Instrumentation Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Instrumentation Technician, you need a solid background in electronics, process control, and instrumentation, typically supported by an associate degree or technical certification in instrumentation or automation. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, HART communicators, and calibration tools is essential for daily technical tasks. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualities are critical to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated industrial systems.

What is the difference between Automation Instrumentation Technician vs Electrical Technician?

AspectAutomation Instrumentation TechnicianElectrical Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certifications in instrumentation, PLC programming, and control systemsOften requires electrical trade certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesConstruction sites, maintenance facilities, electrical service environments
Job FocusInstalling, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems and instrumentationInstalling, repairing, and maintaining electrical systems and wiring

Automation Instrumentation Technicians and Electrical Technicians share overlapping skills in electrical systems, but Automation Instrumentation Technicians focus more on control systems and instrumentation used in industrial automation. Both roles are vital in manufacturing and industrial settings, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation technicians are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation due to the need for maintaining and calibrating control systems and sensors. Strong skills in troubleshooting, calibration, and familiarity with PLCs and SCADA systems increase employability in this field.

What does an automation technician do?

An automation technician installs, maintains, and repairs automated control systems used in manufacturing and industrial processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators, often troubleshooting electrical and mechanical issues to ensure systems operate efficiently. Strong technical skills, knowledge of control systems, and safety protocols are essential for this role.
More about Automation Instrumentation Technician jobs
What job categories do people searching Automation Instrumentation Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Instrumentation Technician jobs are:
Automation Instrumentation Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Instrumentation Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,556 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

SCADA Automation Technician

Hawk Group

Mansfield, LA • On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Per diem

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Role: SCADA Automation Technician
Our Vision: RigUp is where the best workers power the world's most successful projects. We are united by a common mission: to deliver services and technology that fundamentally change how skilled workers and the businesses they serve get hard work done.
Job Description
The SCADA Automation Technician is responsible for the installation, configuration, commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems and associated automation equipment at well sites, production facilities, and related infrastructure. This role supports field operations by ensuring reliable communication between field devices and centralized monitoring and control systems.
The ideal candidate has experience working with industrial automation systems, instrumentation, RTUs, PLCs, communications equipment, and field commissioning activities. The position requires a strong safety focus, technical troubleshooting skills, and the ability to work independently in field environments.
Responsibilities
  • Install, configure, and commission SCADA equipment and automation systems on new wells, production facilities, and infrastructure assets.
  • Install and maintain remote terminal units (RTUs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), instrumentation, sensors, radios, antennas, and networking equipment.
  • Verify proper communication between field devices and centralized SCADA systems.
  • Perform startup, testing, and commissioning activities for new automation installations.
  • Troubleshoot and resolve SCADA, instrumentation, electrical, and communication issues in the field.
  • Support routine maintenance, repairs, upgrades, and system modifications.
  • Maintain accurate records of installations, configurations, testing results, and maintenance activities.
  • Coordinate with operations, engineering, construction, and third-party vendors during installation and commissioning projects.
  • Ensure all work is performed in accordance with safety procedures, electrical codes, and operating standards.
  • Participate in on-call or after-hours support as required.
  • Assist with the development and improvement of SCADA and automation processes and documentation.

Skills and Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma, GED, or equivalent; technical or vocational training in automation, instrumentation, electronics, electrical technology, or a related field preferred.
  • Experience in SCADA, automation, instrumentation, electrical, or industrial controls work.
  • Experience installing and commissioning SCADA equipment, RTUs, PLCs, instrumentation, or communications systems.
  • Knowledge of industrial networking, telemetry, radio communications, and field automation systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and technical documentation.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel to field locations as required.
  • Ability to work safely in industrial and outdoor environments.
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment and tools as required for field installations.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with oil and gas production facilities, well sites, water infrastructure, or other industrial operations.
  • Familiarity with SCADA platforms, HMI systems, RTU configuration, and PLC programming.
  • Knowledge of instrumentation calibration, process control systems, and facility automation.
  • Experience with commissioning, startup, and field acceptance testing activities.
  • Electrical, instrumentation, or automation certifications are a plus.

Core Competencies
  • SCADA Systems
  • Industrial Automation
  • RTU & PLC Installation
  • Instrumentation & Controls
  • Industrial Communications & Networking
  • Commissioning & Startup
  • Troubleshooting & Diagnostics
  • Electrical Systems
  • Technical Documentation
  • Safety & Compliance
  • Problem Solving
  • Communication & Teamwork

Job Details:
Per Diem: $15-$25
Pay: $65-$68/per hr
Location: Mansfield, LA
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