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Instrument Tech Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Instrument Tech

Compton, CA · On-site

$48 - $50/hr

The Instrument Technician is responsible for specifying, installing, commissioning, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining a variety of electrical, electronic, and pneumatic instrumentation and ...

The Instrument Technician services, troubleshoots, and maintains utility equipment across site facilities, including instrumentation, electrical, high purity water, compressed air, steam, chilled ...

The Instrument Technician services, troubleshoots, and maintains utility equipment across site facilities, including instrumentation, electrical, high purity water, compressed air, steam, chilled ...

* 1) Devises, selects, sets up, and operates electronic instrumentation and related electromechanical or electrohydraulic apparatus used for operational and environmental testing of mechanical ...

* 1) Devises, selects, sets up, and operates electronic instrumentation and related electromechanical or electrohydraulic apparatus used for operational and environmental testing of mechanical ...

May be required to have a TEXAS Electrical license if working in the State of Texas. * 1 -2 years as an Instrument Tech helper/apprentice or related electrical/instrumentation field. * 1 -2 years as ...

* 1) Devises, selects, sets up, and operates electronic instrumentation and related electromechanical or electrohydraulic apparatus used for operational and environmental testing of mechanical ...

... using Instrument Tracking System (SPM), other Inventory Control Systems (Lawson), and O.R ... PHYSICAL DEMAND Must meet physical demand inventory of SPD Tech position. Must be able to lift a ...

SPECIAL SKILLS Requires basic computer skills and the ability to learn and utilize Instrument ... PHYSICAL DEMAND Must meet physical demand inventory of SPD Tech position. Must be able to lift a ...

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Instrument Tech information

See salary details

$15

$30

$46

How much do instrument tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument tech in the United States is $30.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $35.82 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.
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Infographic showing various Instrument Tech job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 9% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Instrument Tech

Compton, CA • On-site

$48 - $50/hr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

The Instrument Technician is responsible for specifying, installing, commissioning, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining a variety of electrical, electronic, and pneumatic instrumentation and control systems and equipment associated with the processing of petroleum, waste water, and ethylene glycol. This role should be familiar with ISA standards and other relevant industry standards. The Instrument Technician reports to the Maintenance Manager.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Maintains, repairs, specifies, installs, commissions, calibrates, verifies, and troubleshoots instrumentation and control systems, including sensors, transmitters, switches, PLCs, VFDs, controllers, and control valves
  • Optimizes the performance of instrumentation and control devices assciated with boilers, heaters, thermal oxidizers, scrubbers, distillation collumns, pumping systems, tanks, environmental monitoring equipment, and other equipment
  • Maintains distributed control systems (DCS)
  • Reads, drafts, updates, and/or maintains electrical and electronic drawings, P&IDs, SOPs, calibration reports, CMMS records, SOPs, manuals, and other technical documents
  • Collaborates with operations, environmental compliance, safety, and other maintenance personnel
  • Adheres to company and agency safety rules and regulations at all times
  • Occasionally responds to emergency call-ins
  • Performs other related duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:
  • 5 years of experience in refinery or related field

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of working theory of industrial process equipment and associated physical processes
  • Skill in using process meters, HART communicators, computers & companion software, combustion analyzers, torque screw drivers, tubing tools, calibration & test equipment, and other relevant tools
  • Basic knowledge of networks and industrial communications protocols
  • Strong troubleshooting ability
  • Ability to verify equipment is de-energized and in a safe working condition
  • Ability to safely work in mixed voltage enclosures
  • Ability to work independently and in a team
  • Skill in organization, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities simultaneously.
  • Ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted.
  • Ability to clearly communicate to technical and non-technical audiences in speech and writing
  • Resourcefulness and ability to work in unfamiliar situations

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with DCS
  • Experience with CEMS
  • Experience with fired equipment and BMS

California Pay Transparency Notice: Posted pay ranges are provided in accordance with California pay transparency requirements and reflect the Company's current anticipated compensation for the position at the time of posting. Compensation ranges are periodically reviewed and may be revised based on business needs, market conditions, internal equity, budgetary considerations, and other legitimate business factors.
EEO Statement: It is the policy of World Oil and its subsidiaries to provide equal opportunity for all applicants and employees. The Company does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, sex/gender, gender identity/gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, military/veteran status, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, reproductive health decision making, or any other status protected by state or federal law.