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Entry Level Instrumentation Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Lodi, CA · On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

This is an entry level position. No experience is required. * The employee will be expected perform following tasks: * Load tooling and materials. * Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation ...

MGM Transformer LLC

Quality Inspector

Commerce, CA

Quality Manager Job Type: Entry Level Quality / Testing Inspector Job Summary: We are seeking a ... Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Instrumentation, or related field. Pre-Employment ...

Forgent

Quality Inspector

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Quality Manager Job Type: Entry Level Quality / Testing Inspector Job Summary: We are seeking a ... Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Instrumentation, or related field. Pre-Employment ...

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All JobsEntry Level Instrumentation JobsEntry Level Instrumentation Jobs in California

Entry Level Instrumentation information

See California salary details

$13

$20

$35

How much do entry level instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation in California is $20.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $20.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do instrument techs get paid?

Entry-level instrumentation technicians in Louisiana typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on experience and industry. Salaries can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and overtime work in industrial or manufacturing environments.

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.

How to get started in instrumentation?

To start a career in instrumentation, gain relevant education such as a high school diploma or technical training in electronics, control systems, or related fields. Obtain certifications like OSHA safety training or specific instrument technician courses, and seek entry-level positions to gain hands-on experience with tools, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation systems.

What are the career paths in instrumentation?

Entry level instrumentation roles can lead to advanced positions such as instrumentation technician, control systems engineer, automation specialist, or instrumentation supervisor. Career progression often involves gaining experience, certifications, and technical skills related to process control, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation systems.

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.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation technicians and specialists are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation due to the need for precise control and measurement systems. Employment opportunities often require knowledge of control systems, calibration, and troubleshooting of instruments, with job growth driven by infrastructure upgrades and technological advancements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs in California? The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in California? For Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Instrumentation job openings:
Entry Level Instrumentation jobs near you
Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Lodi, CA • On-site

$24.50 - $33.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

41st of 58 rated business consultants

Job description

Exploration Team Members (ETMs) will perform subsurface exploration duties using conventional drilling or in-situ testing techniques. Drill methods may include; auger drilling, mud rotary drilling, air rotary drilling, and diamond bit coring techniques. In-situ testing techniques may include cone penetration testing (CPT), pressure meter testing, and rock dilatometer testing. Work may also include the installation of instrumentation such as piezometers, monitor wells and inclinometers. Work as part of a multiple person team on projects. ETMs will perform daily tasks including: survey and locate drilling points; conduct site reconnaissance; load/unload tooling, materials and samples; classify soil and rock samples; perform routine maintenance and basic repairs on drilling equipment, prepare internal (daily field forms) and external (DOT Logs) paperwork. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located.From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.Requirements:
  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Limited or no experience required
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within first 30 days of employment.
  • Valid Class A commercial driver's license.
Preferred Certification and Skills:
  • Experience in diesel mechanics, welding, fabrication, heavy equipment operation, and construction.
  • This is an entry level position. No experience is required.
  • The employee will be expected perform following tasks:
    • Load tooling and materials.
    • Assist in drilling operations and instrumentation and monitoring well installation.
    • Collect soil and rock samples and log field data.
    • Perform routine repairs and maintenance.
    • Perform basic surveying and site reconnaissance.
    • Drive a medium-duty truck and trailer.
    • Learn to inspect and how to maintain equipment.
    • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
    • Be responsible for maintaining quality standards on all projects.

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