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Instrument Tech information

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$14

$27

$42

How much do instrument tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument tech in Houston, PA is $27.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.44 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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.

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 and safety procedures is also important in this role.

Is an instrument technician in high demand?

Instrument technicians are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities due to the need for maintenance, calibration, and repair of control systems and instrumentation. Employment prospects are strong for those with technical skills, certifications, and experience working with tools like multimeters and calibration equipment. The role often offers steady employment and opportunities for advancement in industrial environments.

Is instrument tech a stressful job?

Instrument technicians often work in environments that require attention to detail and safety, which can be stressful during urgent repairs or tight deadlines. The job may involve working with complex equipment and sometimes irregular hours, but stress levels vary depending on the work setting and individual experience.

What are popular job titles related to Instrument Tech jobs in Houston, PA?

For Instrument Tech jobs in Houston, PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Instrument Tech jobs in Houston, PA look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrument Tech jobs in Houston, PA are:

Instrument Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrument Tech job openings in Houston, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 11% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,666 per year, or $27.7 per hour.

Lead Instrument & Controls Engineer - Nuclear (Multiple Locations)

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Burns & McDonnell
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 80 rated construction

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Learn more about Burns & McDonnellexternal

$160K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description
Burns & McDonnell's Power Global Practice is seeking to hire experienced I&C engineers to our Nuclear team focusing on both operating Nuclear Power Plants and new nuclear power projects, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), microreactors and Advanced Reactors. Our Nuclear team has domestic and international experience providing consulting, design, analysis, and pre-construction planning services for operating nuclear power plants, nuclear refurbishments, as well as new SMRs and advanced reactors. We deliver solutions for these and other challenging projects every day.
As an I&C engineer, you will serve as part of our design team with the ability to work on a full range of projects in engineering, procurement, and construction management related to the design, operation, maintenance, modification, and licensing of nuclear generating stations.
Responsibilities
  • Perform and/or lead I&C design of projects from the conceptual phase through design completion.
  • Support business development efforts by providing level of effort estimates for proposals, developing capabilities/qualifications summaries, or identifying key pursuits.
  • Interface with clients on projects to communicate progress, resolve comments and/or open items, and provide in-person presence for meetings or site technical support.
  • Manage small project budgets and schedules for technical deliverables.
  • Lead the production of instrumentation engineering/design deliverables, including Instrument Index, Instrument Data Sheets, Instrument Installation Details, Instrument Location Plans, Wiring Diagrams, and Loop Diagrams.
  • Lead the production of control systems (DCS and/or PLC).
  • Lead the production of controls design deliverables, including I/O list, Process Control Narratives, Graphic Sketches, Cause & Effect Diagrams, Alarm Rationalization, and manage third party control system suppliers to comply with the control system design requirements, including participating in Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT).
  • Lead the production of I&C purchase specifications, review bids, make technical recommendations and manage the overall purchase, review of I&C packages, and review of vendor documentation.
  • Manage the development of P&ID's for various projects.
  • Determine process measurements protocols, such as temperature, pressure, flow, level, analyzers, and control valves. Utilize knowledge of various technologies for selecting the appropriate I&C application.
  • Lead production of preliminary sizing calculations for instruments such as orifice plates, controls valves, relief valves, and thermowells.
  • Develop level sketches in conjunction with multiple departments.
  • Responsible for applying knowledge of commonly used I&C engineering/design concepts, principles, practices, codes, and procedures within the engineering services industry.
  • Quality review production drawings for a variety of projects and project related data as required by the project managers to verify corrections are made within multiple CAD related software.
  • Leads field inspections, installation, measurements or calculations for public and private clients.
  • Prepare and present technical reports for clients and industry publications.
  • Responsible for effective communication with other engineering disciplines.
  • Other duties, as assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering or related degree from an ABET accredited program and 7 years experience. Required or
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical or related Engineering Technology from an ABET accredited program and successful completion of Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
  • Master of Science Degree in Engineering may be substituted for 1 year of experience.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) License Preferred
  • Ability to be authorized for unescorted access at a U.S. nuclear power generating facility.
  • Strong knowledge in standard engineering techniques and procedures.
  • Experience with nuclear plant I&C design, standard design process, plant modification packages, configuration management, and ASME NQA-1 (safety-related) requirements.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with leading the discipline design for projects and delegating work tasks to team members. Ability to lead execution of work and resolve issues in a team environment.
  • Demonstrated critical thinking skills, ability to work methodically and analytically in a quantitative problem-solving environment.
  • Ability to travel.
  • Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, organization and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to perform quality reviews for detailed engineering documents and specifications.

Compensation
$160,000.00-240,000.00 Yearly
The expected compensation range for this position is displayed in compliance with all local/state regulations. The expected compensation range for this position is based on a number of factors, including but not limited to: individual education, qualifications, prior work experience and work location. The total annual compensation package will consist of a base salary and eligibility to participate in our discretionary year-end incentive bonus program.
Benefits
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee-owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
This job posting will remain open a minimum of 72 hours and on an ongoing basis until filled.
EEO/Disabled/Veterans
Job Instrumentation & Controls Engineering
Primary Location US-MO-Kansas City
Other Locations US-NC-Charlotte, US-PA-Pittsburgh, US-IL-Chicago
Schedule: Full-time
Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time
Req ID: 263243
Job Hire Type Experienced #LI-JJ #PWR
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About Burns & McDonnell

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Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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