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Electrical Instrumentation Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Principal Electrical Engineer

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$135K - $166K/yr

Solve Electrical and Instrumentation problems through design, redesign, application, and reliability centered maintenance techniques. * Familiar with all instrumentation devices such as transmitters ...

I/E Technician

Franklin, VA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

The Instrumentation-Electrical (I&E) Technician diagnoses instrument and electrical systems problems. I&E Technician services, troubleshoots, repairs and/or replaces, aligns, and maintains instrument ...

Principal Electrical Engineer

Colonial Heights, VA · On-site

$135K - $166K/yr

Solve Electrical and Instrumentation problems through design, redesign, application, and reliability centered maintenance techniques. * Familiar with all instrumentation devices such as transmitters ...

* You will ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of plant instrumentation, electrical, analytical, and control systems while supporting overall production objectives * Troubleshoot ...

* You will ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of plant instrumentation, electrical, analytical, and control systems while supporting overall production objectives * Troubleshoot ...

The Electrical/Instrumentation (E/I) Maintenance Specialist works closely with Reliability Engineers, Project Engineers, operating area personnel and all levels of the Maintenance Organization to ...

E/I Maintenance Specialist

Hopewell, VA · On-site

$77K - $116K/yr

The Electrical/Instrumentation (E/I) Maintenance Specialist works closely with Reliability Engineers, Project Engineers, operating area personnel and all levels of the Maintenance Organization to ...

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. Experience * Minimum 5+ years of experience in planning and executing ...

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. Experience * Minimum 5+ years of experience in planning and executing ...

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, Construction Management, or related field preferred. Experience * Minimum 5+ years of experience in planning and executing ...

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or related engineering degree or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, or mechanical preferred). * 8+ years of experience in instrumentation and data ...

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Electrical Instrumentation information

See Virginia salary details

$20

$37

$53

How much do electrical instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 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.

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.

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 does an electrical instrumentation do?

An electrical instrumentation professional installs, maintains, and calibrates electrical and electronic instruments used to monitor and control industrial processes. They work with sensors, control systems, and automation equipment, often using tools like PLCs and calibration devices. The role requires technical knowledge, attention to detail, and safety awareness in industrial environments.

Do instrumentation technicians make more than electricians?

Instrumentation technicians generally earn similar or slightly higher wages than electricians due to specialized skills in installing and maintaining control systems and instrumentation. However, salaries vary based on experience, certifications, and industry, with electricians often having broader work environments. Both roles require technical training and safety certifications, and pay can be influenced by geographic location and demand.

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.

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

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.

What is the highest paying electrical technician job?

The highest paying electrical technician roles are often specialized positions such as industrial or control system technicians, especially those with advanced certifications like PLC or SCADA system expertise. Senior technicians working in sectors like oil and gas, aerospace, or power generation tend to earn higher salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on experience and location.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% 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.
Principal Electrical Engineer

Principal Electrical Engineer

System One

Colonial Heights, VA • On-site

$135K - $166K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Principal Electrical Engineer Location: Colonial Heights, VA, United States Overview The Principal Electrical Engineer is responsible for troubleshooting and improving electrical and instrumentation systems using reliability-centered maintenance and process control technologies while serving as the primary point of contact for E&I issues, leading diagnostics, maintenance activities, and cross-functional collaboration to support plant operations. The position also drives continuous improvement through data analysis, standardization, and support of capital projects and maintenance initiatives. Responsibilities:
  • Solve Electrical and Instrumentation problems through design, redesign, application, and reliability centered maintenance techniques.
  • Familiar with all instrumentation devices such as transmitters, controllers, transducers, signal conditioners, valves, limit and proximity switches.
  • Perform E/I loop checks, calibrations, and interlock testing.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for all E&I related issues during normal working hours and during off hours.
  • Develop Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) guidelines, inspection/test/work procedures, standards, documentation methods, and policies to achieve world-class level.
  • Provide troubleshooting flow charts and standard works to improve troubleshooting techniques and reduce troubleshooting time.
  • Lead troubleshooting and problem-solving activities on E&I related issues.
  • Support, plan, and coordinate E&I work during outages.
  • Interact effectively with Planners, Operators, Shift Leaders, and Production Engineers to resolve day-to-day E&I maintenance and minor mechanical issues.
  • Assist in the implementation of capital projects and maintenance process improvements to maximize manufacturing rates, yields, and efficiencies.
  • Provide short-term and long-term improvements in process control using PLC, HMI Programming, AC/DC Inverter Drives, Motor Controls, Experion DCS, and electrical power distribution.
  • Utilize SAP, MS Project, and MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for planning and reporting.
  • Use various test and inspection instruments, including NDT and PdM technologies, to assess equipment condition and repair requirements.
  • Apply statistical tools to track, analyze trend data, perform calculations, communicate performance, and predict remaining life and failure expectancy to improve MTBF.
  • Investigate incidents related to equipment failure, perform root cause analysis, and develop follow-up recommendations.
  • Collaborate with maintenance, stores, suppliers, and purchasing on spare parts and equipment opportunities.
  • Track plant downtime and OEE, prepare monthly reports, and report benefits from reliability centered maintenance.
  • Support MOC programs for changes in reliability databases and maintenance excellence efforts.
Requirements:
  • Associates Degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology
  • Minimum 6 months of experience in controls, instrumentation, computer programming, hardware design, manufacturing, project design, reliability engineering, maintenance, or production engineering
  • Proficiency in MS PowerPoint, Access, Excel, Outlook, Word, Visio, Project, Adobe Acrobat, and ERP systems
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a high-stress environment
  • Willingness to lead process development and improvements
  • Effective collaboration skills across all organizational levels
  • Hands-on proactive problem solving with strong judgment
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and detail-oriented skills
  • Strong problem solving, self-motivation, and innovation capabilities
  • Ability to influence organizational change and link business objectives with employee development
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including presentation abilities
System One, and its subsidiaries including Joulé and Mountain Ltd., are leaders in delivering outsourced services and workforce solutions across North America. We help clients get work done more efficiently and economically, without compromising quality. System One not only serves as a valued partner for our clients, but we offer eligible employees health and welfare benefits coverage options including medical, dental, vision, spending accounts, life insurance, voluntary plans, as well as participation in a 401(k) plan. System One is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, family care or medical leave status, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. #M- #LI- Ref: #404-IT Pittsburgh