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Controls Instrumentation Engineer Jobs in California

Beacon Engineering Resources

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88K - $113K/yr

Troubleshoot electrical controls, instrumentation, VFDs, and related equipment * Work with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to improve system performance and reliability * Assist with ...

Beacon Engineering Resources

Controls Engineer

Modesto, CA

$88K - $113K/yr

Troubleshoot electrical controls, instrumentation, VFDs, and related equipment * Work with engineering, maintenance, and production teams to improve system performance and reliability * Assist with ...

Vast

Instrumentation and Controls Engineer

Mojave, CA

$86K - $120K/yr

Vast is looking for an Instrumentation and Controls Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design ...

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Controls Instrumentation Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Instrumentation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, instrumentation, process control, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), SCADA software, and industry certifications like ISA CAP are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you excel when collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and reliable automation and control of industrial processes.

What are Controls Instrumentation Engineers?

Controls Instrumentation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, install, and maintain systems that control and monitor industrial processes. They work with instruments and control devices such as sensors, transmitters, and automation systems to ensure that processes operate efficiently, safely, and within specified parameters. Their expertise is essential in industries like manufacturing, energy, oil and gas, and chemical processing. These engineers also troubleshoot and optimize control systems to improve performance and reliability.

What are some typical challenges Controls Instrumentation Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Instrumentation Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and process engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and project timelines. Effective communication is crucial to ensure that instrumentation specifications meet the overall system needs and comply with industry standards. Balancing the integration of new technologies with existing infrastructure and addressing unexpected technical issues during commissioning are also common challenges. Developing strong teamwork and problem-solving skills helps overcome these hurdles and leads to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Controls Instrumentation Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls Instrumentation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, electronics, or control engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industries, automation systemsPower generation, electrical systems design, construction sites, consulting firms
Industry UsageHeavy industries, oil & gas, manufacturing, automationPower, construction, consulting, manufacturing

Controls Instrumentation Engineers focus on designing, installing, and maintaining control systems and instrumentation in industrial settings. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and circuit design. While both roles require electrical knowledge, Controls Instrumentation Engineers specialize in automation and control systems within industrial environments.

What Does an Instrumentation Controls Engineer Do?

An Instrumentation Controls Engineer works with production equipment in a manufacturing environment. Your primary duties and responsibilities will typically include researching, designing, developing devices and controls, and monitoring and managing these systems. This job incorporates two interrelated technology disciplines: control engineering and instrumentation engineering. Control engineers develop the systems. Instrumentation engineers monitor and manage temperature, pressure, humidity, speed, and other process variables while the machines are operating. In light of the expanded focus on automation in U.S. manufacturing, you’ll find the role of Instrumentation Controls Engineer to be a valuable career.
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Controls Instrumentation Engineer jobs near you
Project Engineer - Electrical, Controls & Instrumentation

Project Engineer - Electrical, Controls & Instrumentation

Ecruit

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$110K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Project Engineer – Electrical, Controls & Instrumentation

Anaheim, CA | Competitive Salary + Bonus + Benefits

The Role

Are you an experienced engineer with a background in industrial automation, controls, and capital projects? Do you enjoy taking projects from concept through commissioning while improving reliability, safety, and operational performance?

We are seeking a Project Engineer – Electrical, Controls & Instrumentation to support a range of automation, controls, and electrical engineering projects within a complex industrial manufacturing environment.

This position offers the opportunity to lead projects that improve plant performance, modernize equipment, enhance reliability, and support long-term operational objectives. Working closely with operations, maintenance, contractors, and external suppliers, you will play a key role in delivering projects safely, on time, and within budget.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead electrical, instrumentation, automation, and controls projects from initial scope through commissioning
  • Develop project budgets, schedules, technical specifications, and performance objectives
  • Manage upgrades, retrofits, equipment replacements, and new installations
  • Support the design and implementation of PLC, HMI, SCADA, instrumentation, and control systems
  • Coordinate contractors, suppliers, and engineering resources throughout project delivery
  • Oversee equipment procurement, vendor selection, and contractor management
  • Review technical documentation, drawings, and engineering packages
  • Lead FAT, SAT, commissioning, startup, and performance testing activities
  • Identify project risks and implement mitigation plans
  • Maintain project documentation, technical records, and compliance requirements
  • Support troubleshooting, reliability improvement, and maintenance initiatives
  • Provide regular progress updates to stakeholders and leadership teams

The Benefits

  • Competitive salary and performance-based bonus
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Professional development and training opportunities
  • Exposure to advanced manufacturing and automation technologies
  • Opportunity to lead impactful capital projects
  • Collaborative and supportive engineering environment

The Person

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering preferred, or an equivalent engineering background with relevant industrial project experience
  • 7+ years of engineering experience within manufacturing, industrial processing, advanced manufacturing, or other complex production environments
  • Experience managing capital projects from concept through commissioning
  • Strong knowledge of industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems
  • Experience with PLC platforms, HMI/SCADA systems, industrial networks, and instrumentation
  • Understanding of power distribution, motor controls, MCCs, and electrical systems
  • Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and P&IDs
  • Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Experience with Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, or similar automation platforms is advantageous
  • US Citizenship or Green Card status required

What's Next

If you're looking for an opportunity to lead meaningful engineering projects and make a measurable impact within a growing industrial operation, we'd welcome your application.