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Instrument Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

An Instrument Man is a key member of a land surveying or engineering team responsible for operating and maintaining surveying instruments such as total stations, GPS equipment, and levels. They ...

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Instrument Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$11.3K

$95.2K

$148.8K

How much do instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrument engineer in Tennessee is $95,206.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,300.00 and $119,400.00 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.

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

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

Infographic showing various Instrument Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,206 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Instrumentation Engineer

Waverly, TN โ€ข On-site

Hargrove Engineers + Constructors
Industrial Automation Equipment Manufacturingย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$85 - $110/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Hargrove is looking for an Instrument Engineer with industrial experience. Ideal candidate will have a BS in Electrical Engineering and at least three years of recent experience with load calculations, running conduit, reviewing drawing and offering recommendations on equipment and vendors.All applicants are encouraged however this is NOT a Controls Engineer position. Experience with Allen Bradley or heavy PLC programming is not a fit for this particular role.This position will be on-site at a chemical plant. Hybrid and remote schedules are not an option at this time.This position does not qualify for sponsorship of any kind.Job Scope: Generally responsible for performing routine design of less complex engineering assignments using theoretical knowledge and practical design methods. This level is expected to assist in the design of larger and more complex electrical and instrumentation engineering assignments. This work will be performed under close supervision.This position is based in Kingsport, TN and requires onsite presence.Relocation assistance in the form of a oneโ€‘time relocation bonus of up to $5,000 less applicable taxes may be offered for eligible candidates. To qualify, the candidateโ€™s primary residence must be located more than 75 miles from the Kingsport, TN client site.Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:Collaborate with cross-functional teams and stakeholders, including all engineering disciplines, project managers, operations, and procurement, to ensure seamless project integration and successful project delivery.Lead and manage the execution of Instrumentation scope of work at the selected engineering service provider in all phases (Pre-FEED, FEED, and Detail Design).Define the discipline list of activities, list of deliverables, time schedule.Produces a detailed list of in / out critical information to be closely monitored.Reports on actual progress and forecasting / check for Discipline activities.Coordinate the evaluation of the design changes to the original scope of work and verify the implementation of those approved.Prepare and review engineering drawings, specifications and technical documents, ensuring compliance with industry standards, codes and regulations.Apply industry codes and standards relevant to the chemical industry, such as ISO, ANSI, IEEE and other applicable codes, in the design and evaluation instrumentation systems and equipment.Conduct thorough reviews and quality control checks to ensure compliance with design specifications and project requirements.Stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in instrument engineering, particularly in the chemical industry, and identify opportunities for innovation and process improvement.Utilize software tools and applications such as Intools, Bluebeam, Navisworks, AVEVA Engineering or equivalent and other engineering design software to support engineering activities and enhance project efficiency.This position offers a highly competitive compensation package, including paid time off, health insurance benefits, and matching retirement contributions.Ideal BackgroundEducation: Bachelor or Master of Science degree in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical or Instrument/Control from an accredited university is required.Registration: Professional Engineer (PE) registration is highly preferred.Experience: This position requires a minimum 3 years of relevant industrial experience in instrumentation and control engineering with focus on the chemical industryRequired Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesExecution of instrument engineering experience in large capital projects is preferred.Experience with relay-based logic panels, generic PLC operation, fiber optics, radio networks, multiplexer systems, digital instrumentation, operator graphics display, digital systems integration is preferred.Ability to mentor and develop less experienced team members.Proven experience working on a project team of engineers, with excellent leadership and communication skills.Familiarity with capital stage gate process and understanding of project execution.Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously.Knowledge of safety regulations and standards related to instrumentation engineering in the chemical industry.#LI-LF1Hargrove CultureWe work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a โ€œteam mentalityโ€ so that each person understands the value of their contributions both on a project and company-wide level. We know that each person on our team contributes to the success of our company by pairing expertise and passion to meet and exceed the needs of the clients we serve across the globe.Our safety culture protects and promotes the well-being of every person who works with us and every person touched by our work.As a 100% Teammate owned company, we proudly offer a comprehensive benefits package including, paid holidays, personal paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), and other benefits to eligible Teammates.Equal Opportunity Employment StatementHargrove is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, sexual identity, marital or family status), disability, military service or obligations, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.Hargrove is a drug-free workplace.The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States. #J-18808-Ljbffr