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Instrument Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$89K - $118K/yr

S&B is seeking an Instrument Engineer for all phases of instrument development and equipment design for a project of significant size and complexity (e.g., continuing services project involving ...

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Instrument Engineer information

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$12.5K

$104.9K

$164K

How much do instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrument engineer in the United States is $104,896.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $131,500.00 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 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.
What cities are hiring for Instrument Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Instrument Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Instrument Engineer jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Instrument Engineer jobs? The top employers for Instrument Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Instrument Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Instrument Engineer jobs include:
Instrument Engineering Associate, Principal

Instrument Engineering Associate, Principal

Audubon Companies

Metairie, LA

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Audubon is seeking a Senior Instrument Engineer in our Metairie, LA office. The Senior Instrument Engineer will perform instrument engineering assignments associated with designing equipment, components, structures or systems.

Job Function & Responsibilities:

  • Independently prepare intermediate to advanced level specifications for project assignments detailing client performance requirements, specific component needs, design requirements, applicable design codes, and vendor drawing requirements.
  • Prepare engineering sketches, perform engineering calculations and develop analysis models for complex project assignments.
  • Review and/or approve vendor drawings for compliance with project specifications.
  • Interact and communicate effectively with clients, subcontractors, vendors and other consultants.
  • Set realistic expectations and ensure assigned projects are completed according to schedule and within budget.
  • Adhere to company quality standards and follow engineering checking and approval procedures.
  • Comply with all company and client health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards as well as federal and local HSSE regulations.
  • Actively participate in company and client hazard identification and observation programs, and immediately report any unsafe acts, conditions or incidents to your supervisor.
  • Interact with drafting/design group to develop and review engineering drawings.
  • Visit job-sites to evaluate site, project requirements, and conditions.
  • Visit vendor facilities to inspect equipment for compliance with requirements/specifications.
  • Prepare inquiry and purchase requisitions as well as bid tabulations associated with equipment purchases.
  • Perform checking of engineering drawings and mathematical calculations.
  • Adhere to safe design practices, while focusing on identifying cost saving opportunities.
  • Plan and manage workload, budgets and project resources, requesting assistance as necessary.
  • Develop, review and/or approve conceptual and detailed engineering design packages.
  • Assist in the development of internal design guidelines, specifications, and design control procedures.
  • Assess feasibility of projects by assessing materials, costs and time requirements, applying knowledge and techniques of engineering and advanced mathematics.
  • Utilize complex and repetitive calculations.
  • Prepare or direct preparation and modification of reports, specifications, plans, and/or construction schedules for projects.
  • Analyze and examine different strategies, equations and applications to ensure appropriate procedures are applied and/or utilized.
  • Resolve design and development issues.
  • Manage client relationships and develop repeat business opportunities.
  • Compile discipline-specific man-hour estimates and Total Installed Cost estimates based on client provided project scope.
  • Manage and forecast man-hour requirements and schedules associated with discipline-specific project scope.
  • Assess challenges and potential risks of planned projects, including construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards and other factors.
  • Undertake initiatives for risk management and appropriate steps to address it.
  • Undertake technical and feasibility studies including site investigations.
  • May lead medium to large scope multi-discipline projects and manage day to day workflow within a group or project; may delegate assignments, distribute workload, establish work deadlines, and issue reports to immediate supervisor regarding completion of work.
  • Responsible for providing feedback to immediate supervisor regarding co-worker's performance and any work related issues, including those that might lead to disciplinary actions.
  • Provide advice and assistance on work techniques, best practices, and subject matter expertise to co-workers.
  • Serve as Engineer in Responsible Charge as assigned, and adhere to regulations regarding PE sealing requirements specific to assigned projects.

Education & Experience:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required.
  • Bachelor's Degree from ABET Accredited Institution preferred.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering preferred.
  • PE license required.
  • Field experience preferred.
  • Industry experience preferred.
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience preferred.
  • Large multi-discipline project lead experience preferred.
  • Smart Plant Instrumentation (SPI), Control Valve Sizing, Meter Sizing and Relief Valve Sizing software experience preferred.
  • Working knowledge of the design of instrumented control and safety systems preferred.
  • Working knowledge of instrument and electrical design codes (ISA, NEC, API, etc.) preferred.
  • Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
  • Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work related problems.
  • Ability to comprehend instructions and request clarification as necessary.
  • Ability to work in a team oriented environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to organize and direct a project to completion

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Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled