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Instrument Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Instrument Technician, Level 3 PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We ...

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

Instrument Technician

Temecula, CA · On-site

$29.48 - $44.23/hr

The Instrument Technician is responsible to ensure Flowserve products and equipment are inspected, manufactured, assembled, calibrated, and tested according to Flowserve procedures and certifying ...

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 is responsible to ensure Flowserve products and equipment are inspected, manufactured, assembled, calibrated, and tested according to Flowserve procedures and certifying ...

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Manteca, CA · On-site

$39K - $54K/yr

What We're Looking For: We're seeking an exceptional Hearing Instrument Specialist or Hearing Instrument Specialist Trainee to join our team of dedicated professionals. Are you passionate about ...

Hearing Instrument Specialist

Manteca, CA

$39K - $54K/yr

What We're Looking For: We're seeking an exceptional Hearing Instrument Specialist or Hearing Instrument Specialist Trainee to join our team of dedicated professionals. Are you passionate about ...

Instrument Technician I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

As an Instrument Technician I, your principal responsibility is to ensure the safe, reliable and efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with local and ...

Instrument Technician I

Torrance, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

As an Instrument Technician I, your principalresponsibilityisto ensure thesafe,reliableand efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with local and national ...

Instrument Technician I

Torrance, CA · On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

As an Instrument Technician I, your principal responsibility is to ensure the safe, reliable and efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with local and ...

Showing results 21-40

Instrument information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$46

How much do instrument jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrument 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 is an instrument technician?

Instrument technicians are skilled professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, calibrating, and repairing instruments and control systems used in industrial and manufacturing settings. These instruments may include sensors, gauges, control devices, and monitoring equipment that help ensure processes run safely and efficiently. Instrument technicians often work in industries such as oil and gas, chemical manufacturing, power generation, and pharmaceuticals. Their tasks are crucial for maintaining product quality, safety standards, and operational efficiency.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or instrumentation engineering, strong analytical skills, and often a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA systems, and relevant certifications like ISA CAP can be important. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the precise operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex control and instrumentation systems in industrial settings.

What are some common challenges faced by instrument technicians in industrial settings?

Instrument Technicians often work in environments where precision and safety are paramount, such as manufacturing plants or refineries. A common challenge is troubleshooting complex instrumentation systems under tight time constraints, especially during equipment malfunctions or plant shutdowns. Technicians must stay updated with rapidly evolving technology and adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards. Effective communication with engineers, operators, and other team members is essential to ensure seamless operations and minimize downtime.

What is the difference between Instrument vs Technician?

AspectInstrumentTechnician
Required CredentialsCertification in instrument calibration or maintenanceTechnical diploma or associate degree in related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, field sitesManufacturing facilities, maintenance departments
Industry UsageUsed across industries like manufacturing, oil & gas, pharmaceuticalsCommonly employed in maintenance and repair roles within similar industries
Job FocusCalibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting instrumentsInstalling, repairing, and servicing equipment and instruments

In summary, an Instrument primarily focuses on calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of measurement devices, often requiring specialized certifications. A Technician, on the other hand, handles installation, repair, and maintenance of a broader range of equipment, including instruments, usually with a technical diploma. Both roles are vital in industrial settings but differ in scope and specific responsibilities.

Is instrumentation a good career?

Instrumentation is a viable career that involves installing, maintaining, and repairing control systems and equipment used in manufacturing, energy, and other industries. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of tools like sensors and controllers. The field offers steady employment opportunities and potential for advancement with experience and specialized training.

What is a career that uses instruments?

A career that uses instruments includes roles such as instrument technicians, repair specialists, and calibration engineers, who work with various measurement and testing devices across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and aerospace. These professionals often require technical skills, knowledge of specific instruments, and safety training to ensure proper operation and maintenance.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrument jobs in California?

The most popular types of Instrument jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Instrument jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrument job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrument job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,921 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

Instrument Technician, Level 3

Pbf Energy

Torrance, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


PBF Energy rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Instrument Technician, Level 3

PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in North America, operating, through its subsidiaries, oil refineries and related facilities. We are a growing organization seeking a talented Instrument Technician, Level 3 to join our team as a pivotal member here at PBF Energy. This role is located at Torrance Refining Company in Torrance, CA.

JOB SUMMARY

The Instrument Technician is responsible to demonstrate an ability to install, calibrate, maintain, and troubleshoot components of instrumentation/analyzer systems within the refinery. Instrumentation includes temperature, pressure, and level displacers/transmitters, control circuits, electronic/pneumatic control valves and actuators. Liquid measurement for pH, conductivity, sodium, TOC. Ability to troubleshoot equipment including process tubing, junction boxes, marshaling racks, and wiring conduit are also installed and maintained by the incumbent of this position. This is an hourly, union position (USW).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Possesses a commitment to Safety and Safe Work Practices. Works safely and follows all Safety Policies and complies with all site policies and procedures

  • Installs, maintains, and troubleshoots various types of instruments and analyzers contained within indication, control, and process safety systems and ensures the installation adheres to national codes and site standards

  • Coordinates with supervision to identify, order, and install replacements for defective parts

  • Interfaces with the Engineering Department to identify opportunities to upgrade instrumentation to improve reliability via the Management of Change process

  • Performs offline and online preventative maintenance procedures and produces maintenance records, including new work requests when deficiencies or improvements are identified

  • Monitors the performance of installed instrumentation equipment for hazards, adjustments, or replacements

  • Participates in testing of safety systems (SIF/IPF) program to verify integrity of devices identified by the program

  • Operates handheld test equipment (including multi-meters, pressure calibrators, smart communicators, thermocouple/RTD simulators, dead weight testers, meggers, etc.)

  • Research documentation from various sources for proper values to check calibration, makes necessary adjustments, and documents all values and changes

  • Interprets blueprints, loop drawings, and electrical schematics. Redline necessary updates & changes and works with engineering to implement these changes

  • Mounts instruments and valves into position and completes circuits and tubing according to diagram specifications

  • Identifies and uses a variety of hand and power tools in a safe manner

  • Performs job tasks outside under varying weather conditions which may include ladder and stair climbing

  • Communicates effectively at a technical level with Supervision and Operations personnel

  • Participate in computer based and face to face training program and complete required training

  • Ability to respond to issues during off-shift hours through callout system

  • Daily activities include climbing structures to access instrumentation

  • Maintains housekeeping in work areas according to Company standards

  • Sustains high quality work, prevent rework, and support reliable operation

JOB QUALIFICATIONS

Basic/Required Qualifications:

  • Education/experience in the instrument/electrical trade that has performed tasks directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified

  • Ability to install and maintain instruments

  • Ability to safely operate a variety of electronic, pneumatic, and testing instruments.

  • Able to lift to 50lb

  • Ability to work while donned in a variety of Personal Protective Equipment.

  • Ability to climb, bend, lift and perform a wide range of physical activities in all weather conditions.

  • Willing and able to work overtime, shift work, and weekends and holidays as required.

  • Ability to work in a Team environment with other Mechanical, Operations and Engineering personnel.

  • Ability to work alone as well as function as a Team member.

  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally and written.

  • Must be self- motivated with willing to acquire and utilize new and/or additional skills.

  • Must be at least 18 years of age or older and hold a valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Programs and maintains various PLC

  • Experience with programmable logic controllers

  • Experience with Process/environmental analyzers includes laser systems, mass spectrometry, gas analyzers measuring hydrogen, CO/CO2, H2S and combustion gases.

  • Network interfacing of instruments utilizing communication software with laptop computer

  • Demonstrates a proficiency in use of appropriate tools and diagnostic equipment to troubleshoot, repair, replace and test instrument loops, electrical circuits, and equipment.

  • Demonstrates a proficiency in the use of computers running Microsoft Office Suite and SAP software

  • 4+ years of Instrument Journeyman level experience preferred.

  • This is an hourly Union position, USW.

Conditions of Employment

  • Passing of pre-employment testing (testing will occur on-site at the facility in Torrance, CA)

  • Successful completion of pre-employment requirements including physical agility test, physical, background check, and drug/alcohol screenings

This description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.

This position is subject to federally mandated drug/alcohol testing.

The wage for this position is $55.39/hour. The compensation listed in this posting is in compliance with applicable state law. Factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, job-related skills and internal peer equity will be considered in determining the selected candidate's compensation. In addition to salary, PBF offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package.

We thank all respondents for their interest in PBF Holding Company LLC ("PBF Energy"), however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please no phone calls or emails to any employee of PBF Energy about this requisition. Placement agencies or recruiters need not respond. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee of PBF Energy via email, the Internet or in any method without a valid written search agreement will be deemed the sole property of PBF Energy. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by PBF Energy as a result of the referral or through other means.

PBF Energy is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive environment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, reproductive health decision making, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, marital status, age, veteran and military status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations as required by law.

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