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Electrical Instrumentation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Ensuring proper operation of, and troubleshooting of, electrical & instrumentation system components including transmitters, actuators, controllers, motor and drive systems, programmable logic ...

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Electrical Instrumentation information

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$20

$37

$53

How much do electrical instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for electrical instrumentation in Virginia is $37.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.72 and $42.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is electrical instrumentation?

Electrical instrumentation refers to the science and technology of measuring, monitoring, and controlling electrical quantities and processes within industrial and commercial settings. Professionals in this field work with devices such as sensors, transducers, meters, and control systems to ensure that equipment and processes run efficiently and safely. Their work is critical in industries like manufacturing, energy, oil and gas, and automation, where precise measurement and control of electrical parameters are essential. Electrical instrumentation technicians and engineers often install, calibrate, troubleshoot, and maintain these instruments.

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

To thrive as an Electrical Instrumentation Technician, you need a solid background in electrical systems, instrumentation principles, and troubleshooting, usually supported by a relevant technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, loop calibration tools, and industry-specific safety certifications is commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with maintenance teams. These skills are vital to ensure the safe, accurate, and efficient operation of automated industrial processes.

How does an electrical instrumentation professional typically collaborate with other departments during large-scale projects?

Electrical Instrumentation professionals frequently work alongside engineering, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure that instrumentation systems are correctly designed, installed, and functioning. They participate in cross-departmental meetings to discuss project requirements, troubleshoot issues, and integrate instrumentation with broader plant systems. Effective communication and teamwork are key, as these professionals often rely on input from process engineers and technicians to calibrate instruments and implement control strategies that meet project goals and safety standards.

What is the difference between Electrical Instrumentation vs Electrical Technicians?

AspectElectrical InstrumentationElectrical Technicians
CertificationsTypically requires certifications in instrumentation and control systemsOften requires electrical trade certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesConstruction sites, maintenance, electrical installation environments
Job FocusInstallation, calibration, and maintenance of control and instrumentation systemsElectrical wiring, troubleshooting, and repair of electrical systems

Electrical Instrumentation specialists focus on control systems and instrumentation devices used in industrial processes, while Electrical Technicians handle general electrical wiring, repairs, and installations. Both roles require electrical knowledge but differ in their specific applications and environments.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Electrical instrumentation is in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation due to the need for precise control and measurement systems. Skilled technicians with knowledge of control systems, calibration, and instrumentation tools are often sought after, especially in facilities with ongoing maintenance and upgrades.

What does electrical instrumentation do?

Electrical instrumentation involves designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems used to measure and control electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance. Professionals in this field work with sensors, transducers, and control devices to ensure accurate data collection and system operation in industrial environments. Knowledge of electrical codes, calibration, and safety procedures is essential for this role.

Where do electrical instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Electrical instrumentation technicians tend to earn higher salaries in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation, especially when working in remote or high-demand locations. Experience, certifications, and working overtime or on rotating shifts can also increase earning potential. Salaries vary by region, with some areas offering higher pay due to cost of living and industry demand.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Instrumentation jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Electrical Instrumentation jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Electrical Instrumentation jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Electrical Instrumentation job openings:

Infographic showing various Electrical Instrumentation job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,304 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Controls Engineer - Electrical & Instrumentation

Gerdau

Petersburg, VA

$78K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 5 days ago


Gerdau rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

424th of 544 rated manufacturers


Job description

Controls Engineer - Electrical & Instrumentation - Level I

Are you ready to seize an exhilarating, hands-on opportunity to leave your mark on a variety of automation projects involving software, hardware, and process improvements in a dynamic manufacturing environment? Join Gerdau, the first North American steel company to achieve B Corp Certification, and contribute to producing steel bars with the lowest embodied carbon in the U.S. Elevate your career with Gerdau, where your curiosity, imagination, and expertise will drive our ongoing transformation into the future.

Great earning potential plus an annual bonus. 

We Have: 

  • A strong global presence with mills that transform millions of metric tons of raw material to produce steel beams, flat-rolled steel, merchant bar, rebar, spikes, and wire used by the auto industry, appliance, construction, machinery, and equipment industries.    
  • A culture that welcomes diversity, encourages innovation, and creates products that serve humanity.  
  • An environment that values teamwork, safety, and sustainability. 
  • A commitment to continuous improvement and the belief that we can create a better future for our employees and our global community by investing in people, processes, and technology.
  •  A Career Path System and Training.

 We Offer:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision Plans - Eligible upon 1st day of hire 
  • Health & Dependent Care (Flexible Spending Account) 
  • 100% Matching 401K up to 6% 
  • Life/Accidental Life Insurance 
  • Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Annual Bonus 
  • Health Advocate Services 
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program 
  • Career Path System and Training 

 Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechatronics or Electrical Engineering with 5 years manufacturing experience programming PLC's.
  • Strong knowledge of AC/DC controls and motors and drives.
  • Ability to oversee electrical projects equipment, systems, etc. including elements of design, implementation, maintenance, and operational and safety standards.
  • Prior experience with programming PLCs and developing ladder logic on Rockwell and Siemens S7-1516. 
  • Solid understanding of PLC communication protocols (Profibus and Profinet preferred).
  • Ability to troubleshoot equipment problems resulting from automation, communication, or HMI issues and implement strong corrective measures.
  • Must be comfortable using MS Office, data acquisition software (IBA/PDA preferred).
  • Must be willing to work in both an office setting and hands on in the field.
  • Must be able to translate operator requests into actionable automation items.
  • Detailed oriented, creative thinker, 
  • Ability to troubleshoot equipment problems and perform complex system tests.
  • Ability to communicate well with operators, maintenance, and members of the leadership team. 

Your Purpose:

You will be responsible for rolling mill automation, training, troubleshooting major failures, software back-up, research, development, improvement and testing of electrical/electronic components, equipment, and systems. The position works closely with production and maintenance personnel, as well as management to ensure continuous operation and continuous improvement of equipment, and processes.  The position reports to the Maintenance General Foreman.

Your Work:

  • Modify PLCs to help support the operations process, with PLC experience on one or more of the following:
    • GE innovation series controllers
    • Toshiba NV controllers
    • RX3i controllers
    • GE Genius Block I/O networks
    • Siemens S7/TIA
    • Allen Bradley PLC
  • Modify HMI to help support the operations process, with HMI programming experience on one or more of the following:
    • GE Cimplicity
    • Ignition
    • WIN CC
    • Rockwell Automation
  • Electrical and network experience on one or more of the following:
    • IBA Analytical tools
    • Computer networking
    • Cisco switching/router configuration
    • ABB LV and MV drives
  • Principal Accountabilities:

    • Lead initiatives to improve HMI based on operational needs
    • Lead initiatives to improve automation stability
    • Lead action plan items to help eliminate delays due to automation and automated processes
    • Be engaged in the process to find and address opportunities for increased throughput, improved instrumentation, improved reliability of existing instrumentation, and improved system response to instrument feedback.
    • Continue to improve the alarm reporting and functionality for the operator and maintenance.
    • Collect, analyze, and report asset performance and work with teams to implement methods to improve performance and sustain existing efficiencies.
    • Develop solutions and provide recommendations for major equipment modifications, renovations, installations, additions, and replacements to facilitate continuous improvement.
    • Support planning and scheduling standard processes to effectively execute all down-days and outages.
    • Participate in Failure Analysis on maintenance and operational issues.
    • Assist with Annual Action Planning process.

Keywords: BSEE, Electrical Engineer, Automation Engineer, Controls Engineer, Process Engineer, automation, programming, control systems, PLC, HMI, SCADA, hydraulics, pneumatics, AC/CD, drives, motors, steel, metals, manufacturing

Gerdau believes in equal employment opportunity related to all employees and applicants for employment. It is the policy of Gerdau that there will be no discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, marital status, sex, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

 

If you are vision-impaired or have some other disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act / Accessible Canada Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to applying for employment at Gerdau, please contact our Talent Acquisition Team at (866)-788-2798 or recruiting@gerdau.com


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