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Instrument Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

As an Instrument Technician I, your principalโ€ฏresponsibilityโ€ฏisโ€ฏto ensure theโ€ฏsafe,โ€ฏreliableโ€ฏand efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with ...

Instrument Technician I

Torrance, CA ยท On-site

$68 - $90/hr

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

New

Instrument Technician I

Sacramento, CA ยท 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

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$68K - $90K/yr

As an Instrument Technician I, your principalโ€ฏresponsibilityโ€ฏisโ€ฏto ensure theโ€ฏsafe,โ€ฏreliableโ€ฏand efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with ...

Survey Instrument Operator

Fremont, CA ยท On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

Continuous Description The City of Fremont's Public Works Department is recruiting for the position of Survey Instrument Operator. VIEW THE JOB ANNOUNCEMENT The Department The Public Works Department ...

Instrument Technician - ENT

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$26.42 - $40.95/hr

A Little More About What You Will be Doing The Instrument Technician is responsible for cleaning and reprocessing a variety endoscopes and accessories, use of the reprocessing machine and all related ...

A Little More About What You Will be Doing The Instrument Technician is responsible for cleaning and reprocessing a variety endoscopes and accessories, use of the reprocessing machine and all related ...

Showing results 41-60

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 I

Messer North America, Inc.

Torrance, CA โ€ข On-site

$68 - $90/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Why Messer?

As an Instrument Technician I, your principalresponsibilityisto ensure thesafe,reliableand efficient operation of our continuous chemical manufacturing process in accordance with local and national regulations and standards. You will also implement maintenance activities (preventive, corrective and predictive).

Messer is the worldโ€™s largest privately held industrial gases company and what we do matters because it is woven into every part of life, from the medical gases that patients rely on to the essential elements needed to safely and sustainably produce the goods our communities depend on.

The true strength of Messer is our peopleโ€”at every level and in every role.

Join us and take pride in the impact you will make by providing solutions essential to our world and lives. Reach your highest potential at our stable, inclusive company with diverse opportunities in a growing industry, supported by people who care.

Messer stands apart because we put what matters first, and you matter.

  • Understandand adhere to companysafework policies; lead and participate in safety meetings.
  • Apply the hazardous work permit (HWP) process, lockout-tagout (LOTO) and energy isolation procedures asrequiredfor company and contractor personnel.
  • Followmanagementofchange(MOC) procedures for all changes to process and operating procedures.
  • Supervisor, provide direction to and monitor contractors.
Reliability
  • Set up and safely operate allinstrumentsand equipment necessary to perform assigned work.
  • Effectively prioritize and schedule all work activities.
Once certified:
  • Calibrate, configure, and/or replace field instrumentation devices.
  • Perform and document process and product analyzers calibration checks.
  • Troubleshoot and repair electrical equipment control circuits.
  • Troubleshoot and repair process control equipment.
  • Functionally test or troubleshoot instrument or electrical control loops through field devices to verify proper operation.
Process Operation and Efficiency
  • Assist in shutdowns, start-ups, and production state changes for plant(s) in the area.
  • Troubleshoot process problems to identify equipment requiring maintenance.
  • Accept on-call duty andovertimeasrequired.
RequiredSkills:
  • Math - Basic algebra, fractions/percentages, unitconversion.
  • Personal computer proficiency.
  • Effective interpersonal abilities tosupportteam philosophy andprogram.
  • Ability to work alone.
  • Mechanical aptitude and ability to work with simple mechanicsโ€™ handtools.
  • Basic knowledge of chemical manufacturing hazards.
  • Understandingof basic electrical hazards and safety and skills in troubleshooting electrical systems, withsupportfrom subject matterauthority.
  • Ability to troubleshoot 4-20 mA transmitter and electro-pneumatic control loops.
  • Ability to rack in/out 480 & 4160V breakers and wire up to 480V motors.
  • Ability to interpret engineering drawings including P&IDs and PFDs.
  • Capable of operating a forklift, and/or overhead crane, and/or manlift.
  • Reside within areasonabledistance of the plant.
  • Capable of distinguishing different colors.
  • Be familiar with codes and standards associated with wiring and conduit.
Qualifications:
  • HSD or GED
  • 3 years of relevant experience in a related process plant operations reliability activity.
  • ISA Level 1 certification or the ability to obtain one in two years.
  • Certificate in a technical discipline, two-year related degree or recent military training in a technical field will be considered in lieu of ISA Level 1 certification. The job requirement is to obtain your ISA Level 1 certification within two years of hire date.
  • Physically able to perform all duties required which may involve among other things: bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing ladders, and lifting and carrying loads of up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to climb to heights over 200 ft above grade and work effectively.
  • Valid driverโ€™s license

The salary range for this position is $68,000 - $90,000.

About Messer:

Messerโ€™s safety culture, commitment to providing dependable supply and innovative gas technology solutions help customers unlock opportunities to be safer, more sustainable, more productive and more efficient, so their business thrives. We nurture lasting, meaningful relationships with customers, our communities, and with one another.

We offer comprehensive benefits and appreciable pay, with steady schedules and opportunities for ongoing training and career progression. We prioritize and invest in our people at every level of our organization โ€“ the dedication, knowledge, customer focus and entrepreneurial spirit of our employees is what make Messer refreshingly different.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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