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Instrumentation And Control Engineer Jobs in Houston, TX

The Process Control Engineer is responsible for implementing, administering, and testing the ... Experience with Electronics, Electrical, Instrumentation. * 5+ years of experience in DCS required ...

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Instrumentation And Control Engineer information

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$25

$48

$73

How much do instrumentation and control engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation and control engineer in Houston, TX is $48.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.12 and $55.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrumentation and control engineer?

Instrumentation and Control Engineers are professionals who design, develop, install, and maintain systems that monitor and control engineering processes. They ensure that machinery and processes operate efficiently, safely, and within established parameters by using instruments and control systems such as sensors, controllers, and automated software. Their work is critical in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, power generation, and chemical processing, where precise control of variables such as temperature, pressure, and flow is essential. These engineers also troubleshoot issues and help implement automation solutions to optimize productivity and safety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrumentation and control engineer?

To thrive as an Instrumentation and Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, process control, and instrumentation principles, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard control systems (like DCS, PLC, and SCADA), programming languages, and relevant certifications such as ISA CAP is highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you work efficiently within multidisciplinary teams and handle complex technical challenges. These competencies are crucial to ensure precise process control, system reliability, and safe, efficient plant operations.

What are the primary challenges an instrumentation and control engineer faces when working on large-scale industrial projects?

Instrumentation and Control Engineers working on large-scale industrial projects often encounter challenges such as integrating advanced automation technologies with existing legacy systems, ensuring system reliability in harsh operating environments, and maintaining compliance with rigorous safety and regulatory standards. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including process engineers, electricians, and IT specialists—is essential to ensure smooth project execution. Staying updated with emerging technologies and troubleshooting unexpected system failures are key aspects of the role, requiring a proactive and solution-oriented mindset.

What is the difference between Instrumentation And Control Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectInstrumentation And Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Instrumentation Engineering; certifications like CIE or ISABachelor's in Electrical Engineering; PE license in some regions
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesPower plants, electrical systems, construction sites
Industry UsageProcess control, automation, instrumentation systemsPower distribution, electrical design, electronics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Instrumentation And Control Engineers focus on designing, installing, and maintaining control systems and instrumentation in industrial settings. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronics. While both roles require electrical or related degrees, their work environments and specialties differ, making this comparison relevant for those exploring careers or job opportunities in automation and electrical systems.

What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation And Control Engineer jobs in Houston, TX?

For Instrumentation And Control Engineer jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Instrumentation And Control Engineer jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrumentation And Control Engineer jobs in Houston, TX are:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation And Control Engineer job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $101,644 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Electrical Engineer - Instrumentation and Controls

Targa Resources

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Targa Resources rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 87 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

JOB FUNCTIONS AND KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Instrumentation, Controls, and Automation (I&C) Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, and support of instrumentation, control systems, and automation for midstream facilities and large capital projects. This role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient operation of control systems while collaborating with engineering, operations, construction, and project teams to deliver compliant, cost-effective, and maintainable automation solutions across the full project lifecycle.
  • Provide technical support for instrumentation, controls, and automation systems, including troubleshooting, system optimization, maintenance support, Process Safety Management (PSM) compliance, PHA and HAZOP participation, MOC support, and resolution of action items.
  • Serve as the technical lead for the I&C scope on major projects, coordinating closely with Technical Services, Project Management, Operations, and Construction teams.
  • Develop, review, and approve instrumentation and control system deliverables, including power distribution one-lines, SIS/PCS/ESD architectures, control narratives, Cause & Effect matrices, area classification drawings, control panel layouts, instrumentation specifications, and facility layouts.
  • Interpret, mark up, and provide redlines on engineered drawings and generate engineered sketches to support drafting, installation, and construction activities.
  • Coordinate, review, and oversee I&C engineering and design work performed by third-party engineering contractors.
  • Develop, maintain, and support automation programming for plant PLC systems to enable troubleshooting, modifications, and long-term system support.
  • Develop, maintain, and continuously improve instrumentation specifications, standards, and best practices.
  • Provide technical expertise during construction and commissioning phases, including PLC programming and configuration, factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), communications setup, loop checks, safety system testing, and plant startup support.
  • Work closely with Project Managers to develop I&C scopes of work, material takeoffs, manpower estimates, schedules, and technical input for capital projects.
  • Prepare cost estimates for instrumentation and controls work, track actual costs, and forecast remaining (to-go) costs throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve issues associated with new or existing facilities related to instrumentation, control systems, and automation design.
  • Develop procedures, organize workflows, and support schedule development for I&C-related activities.
  • Support projects through the full lifecycle, including feasibility studies, Front End Loading (FEL) estimates, AFE development, detailed engineering, construction, commissioning, as-built documentation, and participation in pre-startup safety reviews.
  • Other duties as assigned

CORE VALUES & BEHAVIORS:
  • Embody integrity, accountability, initiative, and respect in correspondence and work.
  • Adhere to safety standards, company policies and standards, and regulatory requirements (DOT, OSHA, API, ASME, NFPA)
  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills, as well as the ability to interface effectively with all levels within the company and with external stakeholders
  • Thrive in a team environment, collaborate with cross-functional groups, and maintain a professional and respectful demeanor
  • Exhibit strong work ethic, self-motivation, and ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Maintain regular and reliable attendance

MINIMUM ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Possess a valid driver's license and safe driving record
  • Exhibit proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
  • Proficiency in Power BI for reporting and analytics - Engineering or Technical degree from a two- or four-year university with 3-5 years of related experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
  • Working knowledge of applicable codes, standards, and regulations related to instrumentation and process control systems (including NFPA, ISA, API, and OSHA).
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with the ability to manage shifting priorities and timelines.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and in a team-oriented, collaborative environment.
  • Strong written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Ability to research technical issues, evaluate alternatives, and identify appropriate equipment solutions.
  • Demonstrated ability to learn, understand, and apply new technologies.
  • Ability to prioritize and execute tasks in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
  • Ability and willingness to travel at least 25% of the time

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience or demonstrated aptitude with Ignition HMI software, Wonderware ArchestrA, and/or Wonderware InTouch.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley Studio 5000 Logix Designer software.
  • Experience specifying, evaluating, and selecting instrumentation and specialty equipment for operations and complex capital projects

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:
  • Adhere to all applicable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) guidelines, including eye protection, footwear, hard hat, and fire retardant clothing (FRC)
  • Ability to lift, push, or pull 50 pounds
  • Ability to work in changing climate conditions and plant/field environments
  • Ability to work in close quarters, while kneeling, squatting, sitting, climbing, and standing
  • Ability to frequently stand, walk, use hands to handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
Targa Resources provides equal employment opportunities based on merit, experience, and other work-related criteria and without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, sex, age, pregnancy, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. We also strive to provide reasonable accommodation to employees' beliefs and practices that do not conflict with Targa's policies and applicable law. We value the unique contributions that every employee brings to their role with Targa.

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