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Instrument Apprentice Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Kalsec, Inc.

Instrument Technician

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

... apprenticeship, or equivalent. * If certification is not possessed at the time the position is ... Instrument Technician must obtain ISA CSST Level I certification within one (1) year, with ...

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Instrument Apprentice information

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$18

$28

$33

How much do instrument apprentice jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument apprentice in Michigan is $28.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Instrument Apprentice vs Instrument Technician?

AspectInstrument ApprenticeInstrument Technician
Required CredentialsTypically high school diploma or equivalent; on-the-job trainingOften requires technical diploma or certification in instrumentation
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, industrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesIndustrial plants, maintenance departments, field service
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level role in manufacturing, oil & gas, utilitiesSkilled role for maintaining and repairing instrumentation systems

The main difference is that an Instrument Apprentice is in training, gaining skills and experience, while an Instrument Technician is a trained professional responsible for maintaining and repairing instrumentation systems. Apprenticeship programs prepare individuals for a career as an Instrument Technician, who typically has more responsibilities and technical expertise.

What is an instrument apprentice?

Instrument Apprentices are entry-level workers who assist in the installation, maintenance, and repair of various instruments and control systems used in industries such as manufacturing, power generation, and processing plants. They work under the supervision of experienced instrument technicians or engineers, learning to handle tools, read technical diagrams, and understand instrumentation principles. The apprenticeship typically combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction to develop the necessary skills for a career as an instrument technician.

What are some typical challenges instrument apprentices face during their training period?

Instrument Apprentices often encounter challenges such as learning to interpret complex technical diagrams, understanding the intricacies of various instrumentation systems, and adapting to strict safety protocols in industrial environments. Additionally, apprentices must quickly develop hands-on skills while working under the supervision of experienced technicians, which can be demanding but highly rewarding. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as apprentices frequently collaborate with engineers, electricians, and other trades to troubleshoot and maintain equipment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrument apprentice, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instrument Apprentice, you need a solid understanding of basic electronics, instrumentation, and safety procedures, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with tools such as multimeters, calibration devices, and relevant software like PLC programming systems is typically required. Attention to detail, a strong willingness to learn, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instrumentation systems, which are critical for operational safety and efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Instrument jobs in Michigan are:

Instrument Apprentice jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrument Apprentice job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $58,729 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Instrument Technician

Kalsec, Inc.

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:Safely perform the troubleshooting, repair, installation, and calibration of all Kalsec Inc. manufacturing instrumentation and control equipment. Responsibilities will be carried out across all Kalsec Inc. facilities located in Kalamazoo, MI.
Essential Job Responsibilities:
Instrumentation, Calibration & Technical Execution
  • Perform calibration, installation, troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of plant instrumentation and control systems across all Kalamazoo facilities
  • Troubleshoot and repair plant instrumentation and PLC instrument circuits through resolution using sound failure-mode theory prior to equipment replacement
  • Independently perform loop checks, instrument checkouts, and support Engineering projects
  • Install, replace, calibrate, and maintain instrumentation including flow, level, pressure, temperature, weighing, gas monitoring, pH/ORP systems, totalizers, valves, actuators, converters, transducers, pneumatic systems, and intrinsically safe and general-purpose equipment (≤120 VAC)
  • Troubleshoot and repair safety interlocks, alarm circuits, and audible/visual alarms
  • Modify pneumatic lines and perform removal and installation of instrument elements from process lines and systems
  • Utilize HMIs, PLCs, test equipment, and computer-based control systems to calibrate, test, and troubleshoot instrumentation and instrument circuits
  • Replace flexible connections, fittings, conduit, cables, and terminations associated with instrumentation
  • Diagnose failures accurately and perform work to a high standard of excellence, exceeding minimum quality expectations

Safety, Compliance, Documentation & Collaboration
  • Apply all MIOSHA, OSHA, Kalsec Inc., Quality Assurance, and Food Defense policies to all work activities
  • Demonstrate leadership and ownership in safety, plant systems, and instrumentation reliability
  • Read, understand, and follow all plant procedures related to the Instrument Technician role
  • Complete and maintain all required training and certifications as provided by Kalsec Inc.
  • Interface with the CMMS system to locate, execute, and document work orders and related materials
  • Research troubleshooting solutions and replacement parts using manuals, vendor support, and web-based resources
  • Obtain and verify ordering information for replacement parts and equipment
  • Archive, retrieve, mark up, and submit technical documentation for revision
  • Communicate and collaborate effectively with all departments to support scheduling, troubleshooting, and equipment repair

Qualifications:
Required
  • ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CSST) Level I, completion of a certified instrumentation apprenticeship, or equivalent.
    • If certification is not possessed at the time the position is awarded, the Instrument Technician must obtain ISA CSST Level I certification within one (1) year, with provision by Kalsec Inc.
  • Experience with calibration and calibration best practices.
  • Instrumentation experience including, but not limited to, transmitters, switches, indicators, gauges, pH systems, guided wave radar, sonar, and PLC interfacing.
  • Proficiency with instrumentation test equipment.
  • Strong understanding of the physical properties of flow, level, temperature, and pressure and their impact on instrumentation and processes.
  • Experience troubleshooting manufacturing systems and equipment using best practices.
  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, electrical diagrams, schematics, loop drawings, and electrical schedules.

Desired
  • Five years of calibration experience.
  • Five years of troubleshooting instrumentation and process control systems.
  • Strong documentation and recordkeeping practices.
  • Experience with CMMS systems and their role in plant operations.
  • Experience working in hazardous classified locations and with intrinsically safe instrumentation.
  • Basic understanding of Arc Flash requirements.
  • Basic understanding of Process Safety Management (PSM).
  • Background in Quality Assurance, Food Defense, and Safe Quality Foods (SQF).
  • Strong knowledge of OSHA and MIOSHA regulations, including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
  • Proficiency in computer software including MS Office and MS Outlook.

Working Conditions:
  • Ability to work at a computer or desk station using required software applications.
  • Working knowledge of job expectations and responsibilities across all Finishing operations.
  • Ability to access all areas of the manufacturing facility.
  • Ability to work occasionally in environments involving heat, noise, odors, heights, confined spaces, and outdoor weather conditions.
  • Ability to wear a Powered Air-Purifying Respirator (PAPR).
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to sit, stand, reach, kneel, bend, and climb ladders frequently and for extended periods.
  • Ability to qualify for confined space entry in accordance with the Kalsec Inc. Confined Space Program.
  • Ability to travel as required.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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About Kalsec

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Kalamazoo, MI, US

Year founded

1958

Social media

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