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Instrument Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and ...

JT4, LLC

Instrumentation Design Engineer III

Edwards, CA · On-site

$105K - $146K/yr

JT4, LLC provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S. Air Force, Space Force, and Navy under the Joint Range Technical Services Contract, better known as J ...

Pbf Energy

Instrument Technician, Level 3

Torrance, CA · On-site

Instrument Technician, Level 3 PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent ... Interfaces with the Engineering Department to identify opportunities to upgrade instrumentation to ...

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and ...

Apple

Instrumentation & Test SW Dev Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$150K - $277K/yr

We are looking for a systems-thinking engineer ready to take ownership of complex test solutions. Our ideal candidate has experience in test integration, implementation, and has a strong foundation ...

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All JobsInstrument Engineer JobsInstrument Engineer Jobs in California

Instrument Engineer information

See California salary details

$12.3K

$103.5K

$161.9K

How much do instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrument engineer in California is $103,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instrument engineer do?

As an instrument engineer, your job is to design and build mechanical and electronic instruments for your employer. Most instruments are purpose-built to accomplish specific objectives, such as measuring the presence of particular chemicals or the pressure within pipes. Fulfilling the responsibilities and duties of an instrument engineer often requires creativity, flexibility, and the ability to coordinate with other engineers. You may also need to manage supplies, test instruments, or work overtime as needed to develop better instruments. This job title refers exclusively to designing and building instruments that measure or control processes and should not be confused with jobs that design and create musical instruments.

What are some common challenges instrument engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Instrument Engineers often collaborate with process, electrical, and mechanical engineers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and project timelines. Integrating instrumentation with complex systems requires clear communication to ensure proper data flow and control functionality. Adapting to evolving project specifications and troubleshooting issues during commissioning are also common, making flexibility and problem-solving skills essential. Building strong relationships with colleagues across disciplines helps streamline the process and achieve project goals efficiently.

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

To thrive as an Instrument Engineer, you need a solid background in instrumentation, control systems, and process automation, often supported by a degree in engineering and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with tools like PLCs, DCS, SCADA systems, and certifications such as ISA CAP or equivalent are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex systems. These competencies are vital for ensuring the reliability, safety, and efficiency of industrial operations.

What is the difference between Instrument Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectInstrument EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Instrumentation Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Control Engineering; similar certifications in control systems
Work EnvironmentOil & gas, manufacturing, chemical plants, focusing on instrumentation and process controlAutomation, manufacturing, power plants, focusing on control system design and integration
Employer & Industry UsageIndustries requiring precise instrumentation for process controlIndustries implementing automation and control system solutions

Both roles involve engineering expertise in process control, but Instrument Engineers focus on selecting, installing, and maintaining instrumentation devices, while Control Systems Engineers design and optimize control algorithms and systems. They often collaborate but serve different technical functions within industrial settings.

Are instrumentation engineers in demand?

Instrumentation engineers are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation, where they design, maintain, and troubleshoot control systems and instrumentation. The need for skilled professionals with knowledge of automation, control systems, and relevant certifications continues to grow with technological advancements and infrastructure development.
More about Instrument Engineer jobs

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

The most popular types of Instrument Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Instrument Engineer jobs in California?

For Instrument Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Instrument Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrument Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Instrument Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrument Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Instrument Engineer jobs in CA?

For Instrument Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Instrument Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrument Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,523 per year, or $49.8 per hour.

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Vast

Mojave, CA • On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Serve as a console operator during hazardous operations and own the instrumentation, EGSE, and DAQ systems on the test stand.

  • Serve as Test Conductor and Test Director during static fire testing of the E-2 engine, ensuring safe and disciplined execution of test operations.

  • Maintain, troubleshoot, and oversee test stand instrumentation and control systems, including calibration and documentation activities.

Job description

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer, reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and test of the E-2 LOX/Kerosene oxidizer-rich staged combustion engine.

This will be a full-time, exempt position located at our Mojave Test Site location. 

Responsibilities: 

  • This role encompasses two core responsibilities: serving as a console operator during hazardous operations and owning the instrumentation, EGSE, and DAQ systems on the test stand.
  • Serve as Test Conductor and Test Director during static fire testing of the E-2 engine, ensuring safe and disciplined execution of test operations.
  • Plan, coordinate, and lead hazardous operations involving high-pressure systems, cryogenic fluids, and rocket propulsion hardware.
  • Maintain and oversee test stand instrumentation and control systems across rocket engine and component test facilities.
  • Develop, update, and maintain electrical schematics for test stand instrumentation and control systems.
  • Manage instrumentation calibration records, ensuring traceability, accuracy, and compliance with required standards.
  • Oversee calibration equipment inventory, usage, and maintenance, including coordination of recalibration activities.
  • Collaborate with skilled technicians to design, build, test, maintain, and troubleshoot Electrical Ground Support Equipment (EGSE).
  • Troubleshoot and resolve electrical, mechanical, and software-related issues on test stands to ensure operational readiness.
  • Identify and implement continuous improvements to enhance safety, reliability, and operational efficiency at the test site.
  • Support and participate in Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), including verification of test objectives, procedures, and safety requirements.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline.
  • 2+ years of experience working with instrumentation and control systems in an operational, design, or development capacity, preferably in test stand or industrial environments.  

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • Experience with industrial sensors and instrumentation, including strain gauges, IEPE accelerometers, thermocouples (TCs), RTDs, and 4-20 mA current loop systems.
  • Ability to read, interpret, and work from technical documentation, including wiring diagrams, sensor datasheets, equipment manuals, and system schematics.
  • Ability to read and interpret plumbing and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs).
  • Experience with National Instruments (NI) hardware and LabVIEW-based data acquisition and control systems.
  • Proficiency in programming and scripting languages such as Python, MATLAB, C/C++, SQL, and Git for version control.
  • Experience working with high-pressure fluid and gas systems, including safe operation, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
  • Ability to analyze operational or test data and implement corrective actions based on findings.
  • Experience with Siemens NX and Teamcenter.
  • Familiarity with Jira and Confluence for workflow tracking and technical documentation.
  • Strong attention to detail with a high level of accountability and ownership of work.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to work effectively in team environments.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with rapidly changing priorities.

Additional Requirements:

  • Willingness to work overtime, or weekends to support critical mission milestones.
  • Flexibility required as hours can vary depending on operational needs.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted and work in an outdoor, physically demanding test environment (from freezing conditions to temps up to 120 degrees fahrenheit)

Pay Range: 

  • Test Instrumentation Engineer I: $86,000 - $120,000
  • Test Instrumentation Engineer II: $110,000 - $155,000

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