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Entry Level Instrumentation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for applicants for E&I Mechanic - Entry Level in our Jackson, AL Mill ... Two-year degree in Industrial Electricity & Instrumentation Strong commitment to safety required.

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Entry Level Instrumentation information

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How much do entry level instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation in the United States is $20.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $20.43 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level instrumentation technicians, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level instrumentation technicians often encounter challenges such as learning to troubleshoot complex control systems and adapting to strict safety protocols in industrial environments. It can also be daunting to interpret technical diagrams and calibrate a wide variety of instruments accurately. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, participating in ongoing training sessions, and consistently reviewing technical manuals can help new technicians build confidence and competence. Collaborative teamwork and clear communication with engineers and operators are also essential for overcoming these early hurdles.

What are entry level instrumentation jobs?

Entry level instrumentation jobs involve assisting with the installation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of instruments and control systems used to monitor and manage industrial processes. Individuals in these roles typically work under the supervision of more experienced technicians and engineers. Common responsibilities include troubleshooting equipment, collecting data, and ensuring that instruments are operating correctly and safely. These positions are often found in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, utilities, and pharmaceuticals. A background in electronics, engineering, or a related technical field is usually required.

What is the difference between Entry Level Instrumentation vs Entry Level Electrical Technician?

AspectEntry Level InstrumentationEntry Level Electrical Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in instrumentation or control systemsHigh school diploma or technical certification in electrical systems
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesConstruction sites, maintenance facilities, industrial plants
Industry UsageCommonly used in process control, automation, and manufacturing industriesUsed across construction, maintenance, and electrical service industries
Job FocusInstalling, calibrating, and maintaining control systems and sensorsInstalling, troubleshooting, and repairing electrical wiring and equipment

Entry Level Instrumentation roles focus on control systems, sensors, and automation in industrial settings, requiring specialized certifications. Entry Level Electrical Technicians handle electrical wiring and repairs, often with similar certifications but a broader focus on electrical systems. Both roles are essential in industrial environments but differ in technical focus and daily tasks.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Instrumentation Technician, you typically need a background in electronics, instrumentation, or a related technical field, often demonstrated through an associate degree or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, calibration devices, PLCs, and common industrial control systems is expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set candidates apart in this role. These abilities ensure accurate monitoring, troubleshooting, and maintenance of critical instrumentation systems to support safe and efficient operations.
More about Entry Level Instrumentation jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Instrumentation job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs? The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Instrumentation jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,428 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Commissioning Instrumentation Technician -- Temporary

AlignHR Oregon

New Martinsville, WV

$55/hr

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

TCL Specialties, LLC — New Martinsville, WV

Starting Pay: $55+/hour + Overtime + Potential Incentives

Schedule: Minimum 60 hours/week during commissioning

About the Role

TCL Specialties is seeking an experienced Commissioning Instrumentation Technician to support plant commissioning and startup activities at our new chemical manufacturing facility in New Martinsville, WV.

This temporary role is designed for instrumentation technicians with direct commissioning, startup, loop check, calibration, and troubleshooting experience in a chemical, petrochemical, refinery, power plant, or other industrial process environment.

The plant commissioning phase operates on a continuous 24/7 schedule. Candidates must be willing and able to work rotating shifts, including days, nights, weekends, holidays, and an expected minimum of 60 hours per week. Overtime is paid after 40 hours per week.

This is not an entry-level instrumentation role. The ideal candidate has strong hands-on field experience, understands startup expectations, and can work safely with operations, engineering, maintenance, contractors, and other commissioning team members to meet project milestones.

Compensation

  • Starting at $55+/hour
  • Overtime paid after 40 hours per week
  • Additional commissioning incentives may be available

Schedule

  • Minimum 60 hours per week expected
  • 24/7 commissioning and startup environment
  • Rotating shifts may include days, nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Temporary assignment supporting plant commissioning activities

What You’ll Do

  • Support plant commissioning, startup, and operational readiness activities
  • Perform instrumentation checkout, testing, and troubleshooting during commissioning
  • Conduct loop checks, hot loop checks, no-load tests, and load trials
  • Maintain, repair, test, and calibrate instrumentation and related control equipment
  • Troubleshoot minor instrumentation and control system issues as assigned
  • Read and interpret P&IDs, wiring diagrams, loop sheets, OEM manuals, technical drawings, and equipment documentation
  • Verify field instrumentation and control systems are functioning as intended
  • Document work in accordance with commissioning procedures and work processes
  • Coordinate with operations, maintenance, engineering, production teams, and third-party contractors
  • Support compliance with safety, environmental, regulatory, PSM, and internal plant standards
  • Work as part of a commissioning team to meet startup schedules and project milestones

What We’re Looking For

  • High school diploma required
  • Vocational or technical school training preferred
  • Instrumentation commissioning experience required
  • Experience in a chemical, petrochemical, refinery, power plant, or industrial process environment strongly preferred
  • Experience maintaining, repairing, calibrating, and troubleshooting instrumentation and control systems
  • Ability to interpret OEM documentation, technical drawings, diagrams, loop sheets, and plant documentation
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office applications
  • Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental requirements
  • Strong communication skills with plant operations, management, contractors, and technical teams
  • Experience using a variety of hand tools and power tools
  • Ability to diagnose and resolve equipment malfunctions
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to safe work practices

Preferred Experience

  • Prior plant commissioning or startup project experience
  • Chemical or petrochemical process plant experience
  • Experience supporting hot loop checks, system turnovers, functional testing, or startup readiness activities
  • Familiarity with PSM-regulated environments
  • Experience working in a 24/7 plant or project-based commissioning environment

Physical & Work Requirements

  • Ability to work extended hours in a fast-paced plant commissioning environment
  • Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • Ability to stand, walk, climb, bend, and perform field work for extended periods
  • Ability to safely use hand tools and power tools
  • Ability to follow all site safety, environmental, and operating procedures

Benefits:

  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance