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Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer Jobs in California

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Develop, update, and maintain electrical schematics for test stand instrumentation and control ... Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. * 2+ years of experience working with ...

Worley

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

... Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering or related equivalent degree combined experience Typically, 12 plus years' experience. Preferred: * 8+ years of direct Instrumentation & Control ...

Modutek Corporation

CA · On-site

... instrumentation, sensors, and related components. Day-to-day tasks include wiring electric panels ... The technician collaborates with engineering and production teams to support system integration ...

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Develop, update, and maintain electrical schematics for test stand instrumentation and control ... Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. * 2+ years of experience working with ...

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Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer information

What is an electrical control instrumentation engineer?

Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, install, and maintain systems that control and monitor engineering processes. They work with a variety of instruments and control systems used to measure and regulate factors such as pressure, temperature, and flow in industries like manufacturing, energy, and chemical processing. Their work ensures that processes operate efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards. They often collaborate with other engineers and technicians to troubleshoot issues and optimize system performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical control instrumentation engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, instrumentation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency in using PLCs, SCADA systems, and various instrumentation calibration tools, along with certifications like ISA or IEC, is highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex control systems that ensure safe, efficient, and reliable industrial operations.

What are some common challenges electrical control instrumentation engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineers often work closely with mechanical, process, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and project timelines. Communication is key, as ensuring everyone understands the instrumentation needs and control systems integration is critical to project success. Additionally, adapting to evolving project specifications and troubleshooting unexpected issues with control systems under tight deadlines are common hurdles. However, this collaborative environment also provides valuable opportunities to learn from other disciplines and develop strong project management skills.

What is the difference between Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer vs Electrical Maintenance Technician?

AspectElectrical Control Instrumentation EngineerElectrical Maintenance Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field, certifications like CIE or ISATechnical diploma or associate degree, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, installation, and troubleshooting of control systems in industrial settingsMaintenance and repair of electrical systems and equipment
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, oil & gas, power plantsCommon in facilities, factories, and plants for routine maintenance

Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineers focus on designing and implementing control systems, while Electrical Maintenance Technicians handle routine repairs and maintenance. Both roles are essential in industrial environments but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What cities in California are hiring for Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer job openings:

Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Electrical Control Instrumentation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution.

Electrical & Control Systems Senior Engineer

Fountain Valley, CA • On-site

SPEC SERVICES INC.
Utilities • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about SPEC SERVICES INC.external

$95K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Act as an engineering lead on the electrical and control systems portion of multi-discipline projects.

  • Prepare data sheets, specifications, and perform electrical calculations for electrical equipment and systems.

  • Participate in startup, performance testing, troubleshooting, and review vendor documents and drawings.

Job description

Job Description

SPEC Services, Inc. is a premier firm in Electrical & Control Systems engineering and is seeking a self-motivated and energetic applicant to apply for an Electrical/Control Systems Senior Engineer position in Southern California. 

About the Position

In this position, you will apply your knowledge of the principles of electrical systems to:

  • Prepare engineering calculations such as short circuit, load flow, motor starting, relay coordination and arc flash. 
  • Direct design staff in the preparation of construction drawing packages of medium and low voltage power systems, grounding, lighting, instrumentation and control systems.
  • Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop the best solution for a variety of power and control systems challenges.
  • Contribute to the growth and development of junior team members.

The position has a flexible 9/80 work schedule with a hybrid work location, supporting the Fountain Valley office.

Responsibilities

Your core duties and responsibilities may require you to do the following:

  • Act as an engineering lead on the electrical and control systems portion of multi-discipline projects.
  • Prepare data sheets and specifications for electrical equipment for power distribution center, switchgear, transformer, motor control center, variable frequency drive, starter, control panel, etc. 
  • Perform electrical calculations using electrical software such as ETAP or SKM. 
  • Participate in startup, performance testing and troubleshooting.
  • Participate in planning, cost control and scheduling for assigned projects.
  • Develop and review construction estimates.
  • Maintain effective communication and relationships with project team members and clients, with a commitment to building enduring relationships leading to customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Prepare & issue requisition packages, evaluate vendor quotations, clarifications, Technical Bid Analysis, etc.
  • Review vendor documents, drawings, datasheets, specifications and calculations.
  • Guide permitting through local agencies, interfacing with clients and construction contractors, performing field investigations.
  • Mentor and train junior team members.

Skill Requirements

  • Strong verbal, written and communication skills with the ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter to a wide range of audiences
  • Desire and ability to learn new skills and assume greater responsibilities
  • Working knowledge with instrumentation, programmable logic controllers (PLC) and distributed control systems (DCS) is preferred.
  • Knowledge in electrical engineering and design, NEC and API 500 with working electrical construction experience is required.
  • Ability to visit local project sites for data gathering and inspections with occasional travel to farther locations.

Experience and Education Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering is required.
  • 6+ years designing projects involving medium and low voltage power distribution systems, grounding, lighting, instrumentation and control systems is required.
  • Energy infrastructure experience is preferred.
  • Engineering consulting experience is preferred.
  • California Electrical Professional Engineer license is strongly preferred.
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record is required.

Salary Range: $95-$157k Annually

We are an equal opportunity employer