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Instrumentation Contractor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

P6 Planner/Scheduler

Abilene, TX ยท On-site

$43 - $50/hr

MMR holds the proud distinction of being the largest privately owned "Open Shop" electrical and instrumentation contractor in the United States with over 30 branch offices including global locations ...

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Instrumentation Contractor information

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$14

$28

$76

How much do instrumentation contractor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation contractor in the United States is $28.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Contractor, you need a solid background in electrical and instrumentation systems, with relevant technical training or certifications such as an Instrumentation Technician Certificate. Proficiency in using tools like multimeters, calibration equipment, and familiarity with PLCs or SCADA systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing complex projects and collaborating with clients or teams. These skills and qualifications ensure accurate installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instrumentation systems, which are vital for safe and efficient operations in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Contractor vs Instrument Technician?

AspectInstrumentation ContractorInstrument Technician
CredentialsTypically requires electrical or instrumentation licenses, certifications in control systemsOften holds technical certifications or associate degrees in instrumentation or electronics
Work EnvironmentWorks on installation, maintenance, and repair of instrumentation systems in industrial plantsPerforms troubleshooting, calibration, and repair of instruments on-site or in workshops
Employer & Industry UsageHired by industrial facilities, contractors, or engineering firms for large projectsEmployed by plants, maintenance companies, or as independent technicians

The main difference is that an Instrumentation Contractor oversees the installation and commissioning of instrumentation systems, often managing teams and projects, while an Instrument Technician focuses on maintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing instruments within those systems. Both roles require technical knowledge, but the contractor role is more project-oriented, whereas the technician role is more hands-on with equipment.

What are some common challenges instrumentation contractors face when working on large industrial projects?

Instrumentation Contractors often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple trades on-site, adhering to strict project timelines, and ensuring all instruments meet industry and safety standards. It's common to work in dynamic environments where last-minute design changes or unexpected technical issues arise, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Effective communication with engineers, electricians, and project managers is essential to keep installations aligned with project specifications and to resolve any conflicts quickly.

What is an instrumentation contractor?

Instrumentation Contractors are professionals or companies specializing in the installation, calibration, maintenance, and repair of instruments and control systems used in industrial processes. They work with a variety of equipment such as sensors, transmitters, control valves, and monitoring devices to ensure systems operate safely and efficiently. Instrumentation Contractors are commonly employed in industries like oil and gas, manufacturing, power generation, and chemical processing, where precise measurement and control are critical. Their work ensures that automated processes run smoothly, comply with regulations, and maintain product quality.
More about Instrumentation Contractor jobs
What cities are hiring for Instrumentation Contractor jobs? Cities with the most Instrumentation Contractor job openings:
What states have the most Instrumentation Contractor jobs? States with the most job openings for Instrumentation Contractor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Instrumentation Contractor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Instrumentation Contractor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Contractor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 74% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,888 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Instrumentation & Controls Estimator

Keystone Engineering Group Inc

Frazer, PA โ€ข On-site

$98K - $117K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Instrumentation & Controls Systems Estimator
Keystone Engineering Group, Inc. is a Professional Engineering Firm and Systems Integrator with 25+ years of experience in Design and Design-Build services for Water, Wastewater, and private industries. We have five offices located in Southeastern Pennsylvania, Northeastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Lewes Delaware, and Seaford Delaware.
Keystone has cultivated a strong employee and client centered environment where employees are valued, respected, and supported.
Our team effectively works together to deliver projects on time and on budget.
Required Qualifications:
  • Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation, Construction Management, or related field preferred
  • 3-7 years of experience in estimating, project management, controls engineering, or related instrumentation and controls work
  • Experience within water/wastewater, industrial automation, or electrical construction industries preferred
  • Strong understanding of PLC-based control systems and instrumentation systems
  • Experience reviewing construction drawings, specifications, and control schematics
  • Valid driver's license with ability to travel to client and project sites
  • Strong understanding of instrumentation and control systems, electrical systems, and industrial automation
  • Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, electrical schematics, control panel drawings, and construction specifications
  • Knowledge of PLCs, HMI systems, SCADA platforms, industrial networking, and field instrumentation
  • Familiarity with control panel fabrication and field installation practices
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships with clients and contractors
  • Strong analytical, organizational, problem-solving, and time management skills
  • Ability to manage multiple estimates and deadlines simultaneously
  • Ability to work independently while coordinating effectively with cross-functional teams
  • Strong attention to detail and commitment to estimate accuracy
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel and Word
  • Familiarity with estimating software and AutoCAD Electrical is a plus
  • Comfortable presenting pricing, scope details, and technical concepts to customers and contractors

Responsibilities:
  • Develop detailed and accurate cost estimates for instrumentation and controls projects
  • Review and interpret engineer plans, specifications, control schematics, panel drawings, and bid documents
  • Perform job walks and site evaluations to gather information required for estimating and project planning
  • Meet with existing and prospective clients to discuss project opportunities, requirements, schedules, and expectations
  • Cultivate positive working relationships with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal team members
  • Identify and pursue public and private bid opportunities related to instrumentation and controls work
  • Prepare and submit pricing proposals to general contractors, electrical contractors, mechanical contractors, municipalities, and end users
  • Generate complete project pricing including, but not limited to:
  • Instrumentation
  • PLC hardware
  • Operator interfaces and industrial computers
  • HMI and SCADA software
  • Electrical materials
  • PLC control panels
  • Field installation labor
  • Programmer labor
  • I&C design labor
  • Project management labor
  • Startup and commissioning support
  • Solicit and evaluate vendor and subcontractor quotations
  • Coordinate with engineering, programming, panel shop, and field personnel during estimate development
  • Create detailed scopes of work, clarifications, exclusions, and proposal documentation
  • Maintain estimate files, bid summaries, and project cost history records
  • Assist with budget development and change order pricing for ongoing projects
  • Participate in pre-bid meetings, project walkthroughs, and customer presentations
  • Review project handoff information with project managers and operations staff following project award
  • Support continuous improvement of estimating processes, standards, and databases
  • Ensure estimates and proposals align with company standards, safety requirements, and client specifications

Benefits:
  • Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Training, Professional Development and Career Pathing
  • Casual Dress Code
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Health Benefits
  • Company paid Life Insurance and Short & Long Term Disability
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holidays
  • 401K Plan
  • Pet Friendly Environment

Our Estimators travel locally to client sites and occasionally have overnight travel trips for projects.
Interested? Please go to our Careers webpage at AND visit our company website at to learn more about our employees, projects, and the important work we do!
Keystone Engineering Group, Inc. does not sponsor employment visas for any positions.
Keystone is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of recruiting and employment, including hiring, training, job assignment, promotion, compensation, and benefits.