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Instrumentation Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Instrumentation Technician

Vacaville, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $51/hr

Analytical Instrumentation Technician Location: Vacaville, CA (Onsite) Pay Range: $30-51/hr. on W2 ... * Assist with the deployment of new PAT systems while maintaining support for existing ones.

... and engineering teams; assist with spare parts identification, procurement, and inventory ... Train and mentor technicians on instrumentation systems, troubleshooting techniques, operational ...

... and engineering teams; assist with spare parts identification, procurement, and inventory ... Train and mentor technicians on instrumentation systems, troubleshooting techniques, operational ...

Showing results 41-60

Instrumentation Assistant information

What is an instrumentation assistant?

Instrumentation Assistants are professionals who support engineers and technicians in the installation, maintenance, and calibration of instrumentation systems used to measure and control processes in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and pharmaceuticals. Their duties often include assembling instruments, conducting routine inspections, troubleshooting equipment, and ensuring all devices operate within specified parameters. They play a key role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of instruments that monitor variables like temperature, pressure, flow, and level. Instrumentation Assistants may also help document maintenance activities and adhere to safety and compliance standards.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an instrumentation assistant in an industrial setting?

As an Instrumentation Assistant, your daily tasks often include supporting engineers and technicians in installing, calibrating, and maintaining instrumentation equipment such as sensors, transmitters, and control systems. You may also be responsible for performing routine checks, troubleshooting equipment malfunctions, and documenting maintenance activities. Collaboration with other team members, such as process operators or maintenance staff, is common to ensure that all instruments are functioning correctly and safely. This hands-on role requires attention to detail and the ability to follow precise technical instructions while working in environments like manufacturing plants or research facilities.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Assistant, you need a solid understanding of basic electronics, instrumentation principles, and a relevant technical diploma or certification. Familiarity with calibration tools, process control systems, and industry-standard safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring accurate instrument maintenance, supporting engineers, and maintaining safe, efficient operations.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Assistant vs Instrument Technician?

AspectInstrumentation AssistantInstrument Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some technical trainingTechnical diploma or certification in instrumentation or electronics
Work EnvironmentAssists in installation, maintenance, and repair under supervision; often in industrial or manufacturing settingsPerforms detailed calibration, troubleshooting, and repair of instruments; more autonomous
Employer & IndustryManufacturing plants, oil & gas, power plantsRefineries, chemical plants, energy facilities

Instrumentation Assistants support instrument technicians by performing basic tasks and assisting with installations and maintenance. Instrument Technicians handle more complex calibration, troubleshooting, and repairs independently. While both roles work in industrial environments, Instrument Technicians typically require more specialized training and certifications.

How long does it take to become an instrumentation assistant?

Becoming an instrumentation assistant typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by on-the-job training or technical coursework that can last from a few months to a year. Some positions may also require familiarity with tools, safety procedures, and basic troubleshooting skills, with advancement often involving gaining experience and additional certifications.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation assistants are in demand in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and automation, where precise measurement and control systems are essential. Employment opportunities often depend on industry growth, technological advancements, and the need for skilled technicians familiar with tools like calibrators and control systems.

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

The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Instrumentation Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrumentation Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Dennis Group

Carlsbad, CA โ€ข On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description Job Summary As a design build engineering firm and general contractor that designs and builds food and beverage processing facilities, Dennis Group's Automation/Controls Engineers work closely with our process, packaging and building engineers to meet our clients' expectations in startup, commissioning, and qualifying their food and beverage production facilities. The role requires regular onsite presence to ensure necessary diagnoses, troubleshooting, and operational startup of our client's production lines, equipment, and facilities. Our automation & controls engineers are frequently facing engineering challenges in applying standard engineering techniques to design, develop, and maintain instrumentation or control systems. Both software and hardware design and troubleshooting skills and abilities is required for this role. Typical responsibilities include, but not limited to: Responsibilities Handles complex issues and problems and refers more complex issues to higher-level engineer, team lead, or manager With general supervision, designs and troubleshoot both software and hardware necessary for control systems utilizing PLCs for integration of manufacturing systems. Automates manufacturing processes through the use of instrumentation or controls systems. Design, diagnose, and troubleshoot network infrastructures - Ethernet, DeviceNet, AS-i, Profibus etc. Develops new PLC applications, interfaces, or embedded controls Develops new or modifies existing set-up and commissioning of new facilities or upgrading of existing facilities Design, specify, wire, and procure control panel equipment, e.g. safety circuits, I/O, networks, etc. Design, specify, and procure electrical equipment, e.g. MCCs, panelboards, transformers, etc. Create design basis document & scope of work Develop functional descriptions and analysis documents devices Understand size and placement of control/electrical panels Specify, procure, configure, and troubleshoot controls hardware and field instrumentation Assist with coordinating with other engineer disciplines Troubleshoots and resolves malfunctions and makes recommendations that will improve efficiency or quality of operations Create commissioning and start-up checklist Observe rough-in construction for compliance with plans, specs, and details Project primary client technical contact Develop bid documentation for Electrical, Automation, and Low Voltage (network, security) vendors Documents specifications and operating procedures Interface and manage installation contractors during construction Researching Automation/Controls materials and best practices Supporting talent growth within our organization Provide coaching and/or mentoring to a subordinate group when directed by supervisor. Required Education Skills and Experience Degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field 8+ years of experience with Allen Bradley/Rockwell, Siemens, GE Fanuc, Honeywell Systems. 8+ years of experience in Visual Basic, SQL, MS ACCESS Database programming skills a plus 8+ years of experience with Design and implement process network infrastructure (Ethernet, Device Net, Control Net, ProfiBus, etc.) 8+ years of experience in an industrial manufacturing setting Database programming skills a plus Proficiency with MS Office and AutoCAD Required This role is client facing, those successful in this role are professional, self-motivated, and energetic individuals with excellent communication and inter-personal skills. Must meet travel requirement - you will spend significant time in our client's facilities during installation and startup/commissioning/qualification phases of a project - 35% to 50% of any given time of the year. Physical Requirements Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Prolonged periods of standing and walking during installation, commissioning and startup. Must be able to lift-up to 30 pounds at times. Travel Requirement Up to 50% travel required to visit project site and other offices. About Us We plan, design, engineer, and build food plants for major brands across the country and the world. For the past three decades, we've focused exclusively on the food and beverage industry, helping your favorite brands put your favorite foods in the grocery store. Simply put, food isn't one thing we do, it's all we do. Dennis Group offers competitive compensation packages commensurate with experience. We provide comprehensive employee benefits including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, paid time off including an open vacation policy, as well as bonus, profit-sharing, and retirement plans. Dennis Group is proud to provide equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or genetics.