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Instrument Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Instrument Engineering Intern

Houston, TX

$16.25 - $21/hr

The Instrument Engineering Intern will perform engineering assignments designed to develop instrument engineering knowledge and experience associated with designing equipment, components, structures ...

Instrument Engineering Intern

Houston, TX · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

The Instrument Engineering Intern will perform engineering assignments designed to develop instrument engineering knowledge and experience associated with designing equipment, components, structures ...

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Showing results 1-20

Instrument Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$11.6K

$97.7K

$152.8K

How much do instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrument engineer in Texas is $97,727.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often due to high demand, extensive experience, and advanced skills. These roles may involve leadership, complex projects, or working in high-cost-of-living areas, and often require advanced certifications or degrees.

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.

Can you make $500,000 as an electrical engineer?

Instrument engineers, a specialized role within electrical engineering, typically earn salaries below $200,000 annually, with top earners in high-cost areas or with extensive experience reaching higher figures. Achieving a $500,000 salary usually requires senior management positions, significant industry experience, or working in highly lucrative sectors such as oil and gas or aerospace.

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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, professional certifications, and work in high-demand industries or executive levels.

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 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.

What does an instrument engineer do?

An instrument engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems and instrumentation used in industrial processes. They work with sensors, controllers, and automation equipment to ensure accurate measurement and operation, often using tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. The role typically requires knowledge of engineering principles, safety standards, and relevant certifications.
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument Engineer jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Instrument Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What job categories do people searching Instrument Engineer jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Instrument Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Instrument Engineer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Instrument Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Instrument Engineer job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,727 per year, or $47 per hour.
Instrument Engineer 4 - Angleton, TX

Instrument Engineer 4 - Angleton, TX

S&B Engineers and Constructors

Angleton, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


S&B Engineers and Constructors rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

S&B is seeking a Multi-Discipline Instrumentation, Electrical and Controls Engineer to support all phases of electrical, instrumentation, and control system development and equipment design for projects of varying size and complexity. The successful candidate will be capable of independently performing the conventional aspects of Electrical, Instrumentation, and Control Systems Engineering, exercising sound engineering judgment in the evaluation, selection, and adaptation of standard design criteria, methods, and procedures.

This role requires close coordination with other engineering disciplines, project management, clients, and vendors, and may include mentoring or technical guidance of designers or less experienced engineers as project needs require.

ABOUT S&B

S&B is an exceptional full-service Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) company, proudly maintaining private ownership and operation for over five decades. With our extensive experience, we have successfully undertaken diverse projects across various industries, including Oil & Gas, Chemicals, Petrochemicals, Energy Transition, Power, and Pulp & Paper.  What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to safety, timely project completion, and cost-effective solutions. Our proven track record speaks for itself, as we consistently deliver outstanding results while adhering to the highest industry standards. Moreover, our company culture is unparalleled, fostering an environment of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.  At S&B, we understand the value of our talented team, and we ensure they are rewarded accordingly. We offer a competitive compensation package, flexible and hybrid work schedules, and a comprehensive benefits program to attract and retain the best professionals in the field.  


SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Provides technical guidance and coordination of manpower for I&E Engineering staff assigned to one or more projects.  Assists in the evaluation and review for hiring of personnel.

EDUCATION

Normally requires at least a four-year degree in Chemical, Electrical or Mechanical Engineering.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

 Requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant engineering experience across Electrical, Instrumentation, and/or Control Systems Engineering (or equivalent demonstrated working knowledge).  Incumbent must be cognizant of the capabilities and limitations of various computer software packages and automated engineering and design equipment to effectively direct their use for diverse engineering assignments.  Registration as a licensed professional engineer and/or a Functional Safety certification (Exida CFSE or TÜV) is preferred but not required.

TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Interface with clients’ technical staff to define scope, requirements, and technical solutions
  • Prepare sketches, calculations, and design documents for electrical power, instrumentation, and control systems
  • Conduct site visits and field surveys to collect operating data and equipment information
  • Develop equipment specifications, data sheets, and purchase requisitions for electrical, instrumentation, and control system equipment
  • Review vendor bids, drawings, and technical submittals for compliance with project requirements
  • Coordinate designs with other engineering disciplines and communicate design intent clearly
  • Review and approve design drawings for assigned portions of projects
  • Participate in reviews of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Prepare and maintain equipment lists, load summaries, and instrument indices
  • Develop control system architecture drawings showing DCS, SIS, PLCs, analyzers, packaged equipment, and communication networks
  • Prepare control system specifications, support procurement activities, and participate in Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs)
  • Support Safety Instrumented System (SIS) documentation, including Cause & Effect, Safety Requirement Specifications, SIL calculations, and Functional Safety Management documentation
  • Support or facilitate alarm rationalization sessions as required
  • Monitor subcontracted engineering services and provide technical oversight
  • Provide input to estimates, proposals, schedules, and manpower planning
  • Support construction, commissioning, and plant start-up activities as required
  • Participate in vendor inspections and occasional field assignments

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read, analyze and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of clients, managers, designers and engineers.

MATHEMATICAL SKILLS

Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as probability and statistical inference, and fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and trigonometry. Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios and proportions to practical situations

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Occasionally may conduct or participate in a field trip to an operating plant or construction site. This requires normal hearing, the ability to stand, walk, reach, climb and balance, clear close and distance vision, depth perception and the ability to focus. Lifting up to 25 pounds may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Normal work environment will be a business office with moderate noise. Occasionally may visit an operating plant or construction site. This may require exposure to outdoor weather conditions, loud noise, work near moving mechanical parts, electrical energy, construction equipment, vibration, fumes, chemicals and airborne particles.

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