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Entry Level Instrumentation Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Lab Technician I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Full Time Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation * Document activities and report results ...

Lab Technician I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Part Time Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation * Document activities and report results ...

Lab Technician I

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Full Time Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation. * Document activities and report results ...

Seasonal Lab Technician (FT)

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

On-Site Experience Level: Entry Level Job Type: Seasonal Waypoint Analytical has been a trusted ... Learn to operate and maintain scientific equipment/instrumentation * Document activities and report ...

Job Summary Laboratory Analyst III performs at the entry level under close supervision performing ... of laboratory instrumentation 3) Good communication and organizational skills 4) Safe work ...

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Instrumentation information

See Tennessee salary details

$12

$18

$32

How much do entry level instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level instrumentation in Tennessee is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $18.56 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 Tennessee? The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in Tennessee? For Entry Level Instrumentation jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Entry Level Instrumentation jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Entry Level Instrumentation job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Instrumentation job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,508 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Sterile Processing Tech (Endo)- 2nd Shift- VUH- $5,000 Sign-On Bonus

Sterile Processing Tech (Endo)- 2nd Shift- VUH- $5,000 Sign-On Bonus

Vanderbilt Health

Nashville, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Vanderbilt University Medical Center rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 249 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

191st of 886 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Discover Vanderbilt University Medical Center: Located in Nashville, Tennessee, and operating at a global crossroads of teaching, discovery, and patient care, VUMC is a community of individuals who come to work each day with the simple aim of changing the world. It is a place where your expertise will be valued, your knowledge expanded, and your abilities challenged. Vanderbilt Health is committed to an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and where your uniqueness is sought and celebrated. It is a place where employees know they are part of something that is bigger than themselves, take exceptional pride in their work and never settle for what was good enough yesterday. Vanderbilt's mission is to advance health and wellness through preeminent programs in patient care, education, and research.
Organization:
Endo 2nd
Job Summary:
Assists all areas with the coordination of the daily patient surgical schedule with occasional guidance from the charge nurse, physician, or staff nurse. Ensures instrumentation is sterile and ready to use. Cleans, disinfects and sterilizes all flexible bronchoscopes, video scopes and related Endoscopy instruments for all areas within scope.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Maintains work environment in a safe, clean, orderly manner.
  • Performs, documents and monitors all quality control tools.
  • Receives and inventories departmental supplies, instrumentation and equipment.
  • Prepares instrumentation and equipment according to recommended procedures and techniques in preparation for high-level disinfection and sterilization to support all perioperative areas and clinics.
  • Operates all departmental equipment safely and effectively.
  • Scans instrumentation and assembles, according to prescribed procedures and techniques.
  • Provides technical support and assists in selecting instruments and equipment for Endoscopy Procedures for all Perioperative areas.

Technical Capabilities:
  • Environmental Sterility & Safety (Novice): Possesses sufficient fundamental proficiency to successfully demonstrate environmental sterility and safety in practical applications of moderate difficulty.
  • Surgical Equipment Knowledge (Novice): Knowledge of the specific equipment and its performance criteria, capabilities and limitations. Able to use the equipment to accomplish basic tasks associated with the specific devices. May conduct remedial maintenance and preventive maintenance. Examples of this include Insulation Testing, Demagnetizing instrumentation, Air Pressure Testing etc.
  • Equipment Operation and Maintenance (Novice): Possesses sufficient fundamental proficiency to successfully demonstrate the ability to maintain equipment, products, or systems in practical applications of moderate difficulty. Examples of this include performing variety qualification testing on different types of equipment (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.)
  • Inventory Control (Novice): Possesses sufficient fundamental proficiency to successfully demonstrate inventory control in practical applications of moderate difficulty. Ability to perform a variety of care and handling techniques to maintain the longevity and sterility of different types of containment devices.
  • Quality Assurance (Novice): Performs, documents and monitors all quality control tools. Ability to read, interpret and practically apply the various Manufacturer Instructions for Use. Possess a strong knowledge base of regulations and standards that govern sterile processing functions and operations.
  • Distinguishing skill set (Novice): Strong knowledge automatic endoscope preprocessors (AER), Various methods of manual HLD

Allied health is among the fastest growing occupations in healthcare today. This area can be defined as credentialed professionals who perform supportive, diagnostic, and therapeutic health care services to promote health and prevent disease in a variety of settings.
These areas are crucial to Vanderbilt Health's reputation for excellence in these areas that has made us a major center for patient referrals from throughout the Mid-South.
Each year, people throughout Tennessee and the southeast choose Vanderbilt Health for their health care because of our leadership in medical science and our dedication to treating patients with dignity and compassion.
Core Accountabilities:
* Organizational Impact: Performs tasks that are typically routine that may impact team's performance with occasional guidance. * Problem Solving/ Complexity of work: Utilizes some discretion and research to solve routine problems. * Breadth of Knowledge: Applies knowledge of standards, established processes and procedure that apply to your own job. * Team Interaction: Provides guidance to entry level co-workers.
Core Capabilities :
Supporting Colleagues : Develops Self and Others: Continuously improves own skills by identifying development opportunities.- Builds and Maintains Relationships: Seeks to understand colleagues' priorities, working styles and develops relationships across areas.- Communicates Effectively: Openly shares information with others and communicates in a clear and courteous manner. Delivering Excellent Services: - Serves Others with Compassion: Invests time to understand the problems, needs of others and how to provide excellent service.- Solves Complex Problems: Seeks to understand issues, solves routine problems, and raises proper concerns in a timely manner. - Offers Meaningful Advice and Support: Listens carefully to understand the issues and provides accurate information and support. Ensuring High Quality: - Performs Excellent Work: Checks work quality before delivery and asks relevant questions to meet quality standards. - Fulfills Safety and Regulatory Requirements: Demonstrates basic knowledge of conditions that affect safety and reports unsafe conditions to the appropriate person or department. Managing Resources Effectively : - Demonstrates Accountability: Takes responsibility for completing assigned activities and thinks beyond standard approaches to provide high-quality work/service. - Stewards Organizational Resources: Displays understanding of how personal actions will impact departmental resources. - Makes Data Driven Decisions: Uses accurate information and good decision making to consistently achieve results on time and without error. Fostering Innovation : - Generates New Ideas: Willingly proposes/accepts ideas or initiatives that will impact day-to-day operations by offering suggestions to enhance them. - Applies Technology: Absorbs new technology quickly; understands when to utilize the appropriate tools and procedures to ensure proper course of action. - Adapts to Change: Embraces changes by keeping an open mind to changing plans and incorporates change instructions into own area of work.
Position Qualifications:
Responsibilities:
Certifications:
Work Experience:
Relevant Work Experience
Experience Level :
Less than 1 year
Education:
High School Diploma or GED
This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Vanderbilt Health, supported by a comprehensive benefits package which may include health, disability, retirement and/or wellness offerings to enhance your well-being and professional growth.
Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.

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