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Instrumentation And Controls Designer Jobs in California

Fluor

Designer I - Control Systems

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

Use the Hexagon Smart Instrumentation (now known as Octave Facets Instrumentation) database to load ... controls, and check design documents. Develop, evaluate, and comment on telecom system schematics ...

Sila

Senior Process Controls Engineer

Alameda, CA · Remote

$128K - $162K/yr

Execute process controls and instrumentation designs for production-scale synthesis equipment by working collaboratively with other teams to design robust, modular, and well-documented controls.

Sila

Senior Process Controls Engineer

Alameda, CA · Remote

$128K - $162K/yr

Execute process controls and instrumentation designs for production-scale synthesis equipment by working collaboratively with other teams to design robust, modular, and well-documented controls.

Sila

Senior Process Controls Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$128K - $162K/yr

Execute process controls and instrumentation designs for production-scale synthesis equipment by working collaboratively with other teams to design robust, modular, and well-documented controls.

CDM Smith

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$111K - $145K/yr

Creating basic to moderately complex instrumentation and control system designs by developing ... controls and related systems designs. PLC and HMI experience required. Excellent communication ...

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Instrumentation And Controls Designer information

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How much do instrumentation and controls designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation and controls designer in California is $55.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48.89 and $64.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instrumentation and controls designer do?

An Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) Designer develops and designs control systems used to monitor and regulate industrial processes. They create schematics, wiring diagrams, and layouts for instrumentation and control panels, ensuring compliance with industry standards. I&C Designers collaborate with engineers and project teams to select appropriate sensors, controllers, and automation components. Their work is crucial in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and water treatment, where precision and reliability are essential.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrumentation and controls designer?

Instrumentation And Controls Designers need expertise in drafting, process control principles, and electrical engineering fundamentals, usually supported by an associate's degree or technical certification. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC programming, and industry standards such as ISA or NEC codes is highly valued. Strong attention to detail, collaboration, and effective communication are important soft skills for success in this role. These competencies enable the design of safe, efficient, and precise control systems tailored to complex industrial environments.

Is instrumentation and controls design a good career?

Instrumentation and controls design is a specialized engineering field that involves developing systems to monitor and control industrial processes, often requiring knowledge of automation, sensors, and control systems. It offers steady employment opportunities, competitive salaries, and the potential for advancement with relevant certifications and experience. The role is essential in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and chemical processing, making it a stable career choice for those interested in technical problem-solving and system integration.

What is an instrumentation and controls designer?

An instrumentation and controls designer is a professional who develops and documents control systems, including sensors, actuators, and control panels, used to monitor and regulate industrial processes. They often use CAD software and have knowledge of industry standards, working closely with engineers to ensure system functionality and safety.

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Instrumentation And Controls Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrumentation And Controls Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,494 per year, or $55.5 per hour.

Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

$196K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

About Valar Atomics
At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.
The Team
As part of the Engineering organization, Instrumentations & Controls designs the systems that monitor, automate, and protect Valar's facilities and reactor technologies. The team develops reliable control architectures that enable safe and efficient operations.
The Role
Valar Atomics is seeking Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineers to lead the design, specification, integration, and commissioning of process instrumentation for our advanced high-temperature gas reactor (HTGR) development program and associated thermal test facilities.
This role owns the instrumentation architecture for high-temperature, high-pressure helium systems, electric heater systems, turbomachinery, cooling systems, and reactor support equipment. The successful candidate will work closely with mechanical, electrical, and nuclear engineers to develop reliable measurement systems from concept through commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead the specification, selection, and integration of process instrumentation including pressure, temperature, flow, level, position, vibration, and gas analysis.
  • Develop instrument datasheets, P&IDs, loop diagrams, wiring diagrams, and commissioning procedures.
  • Support reactor protection and process control system design.
  • Lead instrument calibration, loop checks, FAT, SAT, startup, and commissioning activities.
  • Establish instrumentation standards and mentor junior engineers.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related discipline.
  • 10+ years of experience with industrial process instrumentation.
  • Experience with complex thermal-fluid systems, power generation, chemical processing, nuclear, aerospace test facilities, or similar industries.
  • Strong understanding of instrumentation selection, calibration, and commissioning.

Preferred Skills and Experience
  • Experience with high-temperature gas systems, helium systems, or advanced reactor technologies.
  • Experience with Allen-Bradley ControlLogix/GuardLogix.
  • Experience commissioning first-of-a-kind process facilities.
  • Familiarity with functional safety and industrial automation best practices.

What We Offer
  • Competitive base salary
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company
  • Comprehensive medical benefits
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.
We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).
Salary
$196,000-$240,000 USD

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