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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 & Controls Engineer

Houston, TX ยท On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

The role of Controls & Instrument Engineer is to support the Engineering Lead and Product Engineering Manager. They will be accountable for the electrical scope and systems in large scale data ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 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 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:

Infographic showing various Instrument Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,896 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Instrument Engineering Associate I

Audubon Companies

Houston, TX โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Audubon is currently seeking an Instrument Engineering Associate I to join our team in our Houston, TX Fabrication Office. The Instrument Engineering Associate I will perform entry level instrument engineering assignments associated with designing equipment, components, structures or systems.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Gather and record information from vendor drawings, catalogs, and technical manuals to be utilized in the development of engineering specifications.
  • Under direct supervision, prepare basic specifications for project assignments detailing client performance requirements, specific component needs, design requirements, applicable design codes, and vendor drawing requirements.
  • Prepare basic sketches and perform basic engineering calculations for project assignments.
  • Review vendor drawings for compliance with project specifications.
  • Interact and communicate effectively with clients, subcontractors, vendors and other consultants.
  • Track and maintain awareness of the schedule and budget for assigned project assignments.
  • 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.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Responsibilities:
  • All employees are responsible for supporting Audubon Companies' Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) policies and procedures. This includes:
  • Performing duties in a manner that protects personal and team health and safety
  • Participating in required HSE training, meetings, and reporting activities
  • Identifying and reporting hazards, near misses, and unsafe conditions
  • Following safe work practices and complying with applicable regulatory requirements

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required.
  • Bachelor's Degree from ABET Accredited Institution preferred.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering preferred.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.
  • 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 perform basic engineering calculations and analysis.

No Recruiters, please!
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled