1

Instrument Tech Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

SPD Tech II

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$28.61 - $35.96/hr

One California Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Instrument Tech, you will ensure the availability, cleanliness, and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment. Every day, you will ...

SPD Tech II

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

One California As our Instrument Tech, you will ensure the availability, cleanliness, and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment. Every day, you will meticulously clean, sterilize ...

SPD Tech II

Oxnard, CA

$28.61 - $35.96/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Instrument Tech, you will ensure the availability, cleanliness, and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment. Every day, you will meticulously clean ...

SPD Tech II

Oxnard, CA ยท On-site

$28.61 - $35.96/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As our Instrument Tech, you will ensure the availability, cleanliness, and functionality of surgical instruments and equipment. Every day, you will meticulously clean ...

Tech, Instrument Ops

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $44/hr

The primary function of this position is to serve as an Instrument Operations Technician. In ... Messer's safety culture, commitment to providing dependable supply and innovative gas technology ...

Tech, Instrument Ops

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$32 - $44/hr

The primary function of this position is to serve as an Instrument Operations Technician. In ... Messer's safety culture, commitment to providing dependable supply and innovative gas technology ...

Manager, Instrument AIT

Mountain View, CA ยท On-site

$184K - $202K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Manager of Instrument Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) to build ... Our revolutionary, integrated technology stack enables customers to optimize every dimension of ...

Instrument Technician

Temecula, CA ยท On-site

$29.48 - $44.23/hr

The Instrument Technician is responsible to ensure Flowserve products and equipment are inspected ... Standards & Technology (NIST). Including preparing of purchase orders for calibrating of gages ...

The Instrument Technician is responsible to ensure Flowserve products and equipment are inspected ... Technology (NIST). Including preparing of purchase orders for calibrating of gages.-Repair and/or ...

Showing results 21-40

Instrument Tech information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do instrument tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument tech in California is $29.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges instrument techs face when working on-site in industrial settings?

Instrument Techs often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex instrumentation under time pressure, adapting to rapidly changing site conditions, and ensuring compliance with strict safety protocols. Working in industrial environments means dealing with noisy, confined, or hazardous areas, so strong attention to detail and adherence to safety standards are essential. Collaboration with engineers, electricians, and operators is frequent, requiring clear communication to minimize downtime and ensure accurate equipment calibration.

Is an instrument tech in high demand?

Instrument technicians are in steady demand across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace, especially those with skills in calibration, repair, and maintenance of precision instruments. Employment opportunities are often influenced by industry growth and the need for specialized technical skills, with certifications enhancing job prospects.

What is the difference between Instrument Tech vs Instrument Repair Technician?

AspectInstrument TechInstrument Repair Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certifications like CTT or equivalentOften requires specialized repair certifications or technical training
Work EnvironmentWorks in industrial, manufacturing, or laboratory settingsPrimarily in repair shops, maintenance facilities, or industrial plants
Job FocusInstallation, calibration, maintenance of instrumentsDiagnosing, repairing, and overhauling instruments
Industry UsageCommon in manufacturing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticalsFound in industrial, manufacturing, and service sectors

While both roles involve working with instruments, Instrument Techs focus on installation, calibration, and routine maintenance, whereas Instrument Repair Technicians specialize in diagnosing and repairing instrument malfunctions. The roles often overlap, but the Repair Technician typically requires more specialized repair skills and certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrument tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instrument Tech, you need a solid understanding of electronic, pneumatic, and mechanical instrumentation, typically supported by a technical diploma or associate degree in instrumentation technology. Familiarity with calibration tools, process control systems, and industry standards such as ISA or relevant certifications is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for troubleshooting and collaborating with engineering teams. These competencies ensure accurate instrumentation, minimize downtime, and support safe, efficient operations in industrial environments.

What does an instrument tech do?

An Instrument Tech, or Instrumentation Technician, is responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing instruments and control systems used in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, refineries, or power stations. Their work ensures that measuring devices and automation systems are functioning correctly to maintain safety, efficiency, and quality in production processes. Instrument Techs work with various equipment, including pressure gauges, flow meters, sensors, and control valves, and often use specialized tools and diagnostic software to troubleshoot issues.

How to get into an instrument tech?

To become an instrument technician, typically one needs a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by technical training or an associate degree in instrumentation, electronics, or a related field. Gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or entry-level positions and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects. Familiarity with calibration tools, safety procedures, and industry standards is also important.

What cities in California are hiring for Instrument Tech jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrument Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrument Tech job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,921 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Central Service Instrument Tech Instructor-GCC

Success Education Colleges

Glendale, CA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Success Education Colleges (SEC) is a family of institutions comprised of North-West College, Glendale Career College, Nevada Career Institute and Marsha Fuerst School of Nursing. SEC is a leader in allied health education, and has been offering quality and affordable health care training programs for over 58 years.

Our everyday mission is to educate students in short-term and professional programs for gainful employment and career advancement.

Careers Site: https://www.success.edu/careers-with-sec/

POSITION SUMMARY

The Central Service Instrument Technician Instructor is responsible for delivering a quality educational experience for the students in the courses that she/he teaches all students and are treated in a fair and equitable manner.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Check students' daily attendance and report to the Registrar's Office.
  • Supervise students' activities in the Central Supply Department.
  • Prepare written and practical exams. Grade and record tests.
  • Develop a structured schedule to involve total class participation.
  • Counsel students as necessary.
  • Coordinate with Didactics in evaluating students' performance.
  • Train students and Turn in students' records for filing.
  • Communicate student's progress at staff meetings.
  • Review Universal and Standard Precautions with students preparing to go to Externship Rotation / HIPAA
  • Clean and decontaminate instruments, Clean sterilizers, and Clean medical devices.
  • Assemble trays.
  • Wrap trays and instruments.
  • Peel pouch instruments.
  • Run both steam and gas sterilizers, Run bio tests for steam, gas, and flash sterilizers.
  • Receive loaners. And make case carts.

QUALIFICATIONS KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

  • Knowledge of sterilization techniques, procedures, infection control, workflow principles and requirements, equipment and supply processing, including cleaning, inspection, and assembly.
  • Knowledge of surgical supplies and instrument sets in order to pull surgery cases is preferred.
  • Minimum of two years' work experience in a Central Service, Sterile Processing, or Operating Room environment preferred.
  • Ability to make sound decisions and perform with minimal supervision.
  • Basic Computer proficiency and ability to work with electronic information systems.

LAB INSTRUCTION:

The instructor will oversee and facilitate laboratory sessions for students in the lab. This role involves providing hands-on instruction, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and fostering a supportive learning environment that encourages

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Current certification through IAHCSMM (International Association of Healthcare Central Service Material Management) or CBSPD (Certification Board for Sterile Processing and Distribution) organization required
  • 3 years of experience

Success Education Colleges is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, SEC will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer