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Instrument Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

AdvanSix

Instrument Mechanic - Chesterfield

Richmond, VA · On-site

$46.52/hr

... systems o Instrument enclosures and wiring systems • Performing and documenting instrument ... engineering practices to instrumentation repair work for a variety of typical process plant ...

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Instrument Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$12.4K

$104K

$162.6K

How much do instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrument engineer in Virginia is $103,996.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,800.00 and $130,400.00 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 through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes certifications or advanced 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.

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. These positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and work in high-demand industries or high-cost-of-living regions.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering often earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and relevant certifications. These roles typically involve high responsibility, complex problem-solving, and may require working in high-demand industries or leadership positions.

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, installs, 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.
More about Instrument Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Instrument Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Instrument Engineer jobs in VA? For Instrument Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Instrument Engineer jobs near you
Instrument Technician I, II, or III - St Paul, VA

Instrument Technician I, II, or III - St Paul, VA

Veteran Jobs - 2023 Mar 01 - Veterans Resources

Saint Paul, VA

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

ATTENTION MILITARY AFFILIATED JOB SEEKERS - Our organization works with partner companies to source qualified talent for their open roles. The following position is available to Veterans, Transitioning Military, National Guard and Reserve Members, Military Spouses, Wounded Warriors, and their Caregivers. If you have the required skill set, education requirements, and experience, please click the submit button and follow the next steps. Unless specifically stated otherwise, this role is On-Site at the location detailed in the job post. Dominion Energy is committed to providing reliable, affordable, and increasingly clean energy that powers our customers every day. If you want to work for a purpose-driven company that values safety and collaboration, we're looking for you. You won't just find a job here; you'll find your career. Review the position below and apply today.
Military service members and veterans with ranks from E5-E9, W1-CW5, or O3-O6, plus appropriate equivalent combination of education and years of experience as outlined below will be considered for this opportunity. 
At this time, Dominion Energy cannot transfer or sponsor a work visa or employment authorization for this position.
Job Summary
Dominion Energy seeks a highly motivated Instrument Technician I, II, or III.  There is one position available that will be filled at the level commensurate with the successful candidate's knowledge, skills, and abilities.  
Inspect, test, service, repair, configure, calibrate, and install indicating, recording, and automatic control instruments such as flow meters, pressure gauges, thermometers, regulators, systems, and similar components in a power station. Locate cause of defective performance of instruments, report findings to supervisor, and replace component parts as required. Use portable pressure gauges, manometer, and other similar test equipment. Perform preventive maintenance. Test flue gas, read meters, and record data as required. This level works on complex and detailed systems and equipment. Perform required engineering functions for control loop modifications. Maintain drawings and configuration documentation as related to instrumentation. Act as project leader for control system upgrades and/or modifications. May train and guide less experienced Instrument Technicians.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities & Experience
The knowledge, skills, abilities and experience required for entry into this job include the following:
Minimum Requirements (Note: A partial year of related work experience of 6 months or greater will be considered one year towards the qualifications):
Instrument Technician I: Associate's Degree in Electronics or related technology, with 0 - 2+ years of related experience in an industrial environment OR High School Diploma or GED with at least 2 years of related experience in an industrial environment.
Instrument Technician II: Associate's Degree in Electronics or related technology, with at least 3 years of related experience in an industrial environment OR High School Diploma or GED with at least 5 years of related experience in an industrial environment.
Instrument Technician III: Associate's Degree in Electronics or related technology, with at least 5+ years of related experience in an industrial environment OR High School Diploma or GED with at least 7 years of related experience in an industrial environment.
Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Both Levels:
Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot various components.
Ability to utilize configuration drawings.
Valid Driver's license.
Preferences (If you meet any of these preferences, be sure to include them in your resume):
Fossil power station instrumentation and controls experience;
Experience maintaining and troubleshooting Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS)
Start-up/operational support experience for fossil power plants;
Experience with Emerson Ovation controls
Control system upgrade experience;
PLC experience (to include ladder logic programming)
Must have availability and flexibility to work OT as needed, including days, nights, and weekends.

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