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Instrumentation Control Engineer Jobs in California

Catalyst Career Group

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Instrumentation Control Technician

San Diego, CA · On-site

$99K - $119K/yr

Instrumentation and Control Technician positions install, test, adjust, modify and maintain digital and analog circuitry, microprocessor-controlled devices, programmable logic controllers, variable ...

New

Worley

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

Control Narratives. * Cause and Effect Diagrams. * Material Requisitions. * Construction or Engineering Work Packages. Working knowledge of Instrumentation Calculation/Selection, such as: * Flow ...

Chevron

Process Control Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

$120K - $237K/yr

A Process Control Engineer designs, implements, and maintains multivariable control applications ... instrumentation, analyzers, process, mechanical equipment, etc.). * Identify and capture ...

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Instrumentation Control Engineer information

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$28

$53

$80

How much do instrumentation control engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation control engineer in California is $53.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.97 and $61.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an instrumentation control engineer do?

An Instrumentation Control Engineer designs, develops, installs, and maintains the systems that monitor and control engineering processes, machinery, or equipment in industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, or power generation. They work with instruments that measure variables like pressure, flow, temperature, and level, ensuring that processes operate safely, efficiently, and within set parameters. Their responsibilities also include troubleshooting, calibrating instruments, and optimizing control strategies to improve system performance.

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

As an Instrumentation Control Engineer, your daily tasks will often include monitoring and maintaining control systems, calibrating and troubleshooting instrumentation equipment, and collaborating with operations and maintenance teams to ensure optimal performance of automated processes. You'll also review system data, participate in safety checks, and help implement upgrades or modifications to improve reliability and efficiency. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are essential, as you'll frequently work with cross-disciplinary teams to resolve technical challenges and meet production goals.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Control Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or instrumentation engineering, process control principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC/DCS programming, SCADA systems, and certifications like ISA CAP or similar are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for diagnosing issues and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure reliable automation, efficient process control, and safe operation of industrial systems.

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

AspectInstrumentation Control EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Instrumentation Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, process industriesPower plants, electrical systems, construction sites
Industry UsageProcess control, automation, manufacturingPower generation, electrical systems, infrastructure
Job FocusDesign, installation, and maintenance of control systems and instrumentationDesign, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems and equipment

While both roles involve electrical knowledge, Instrumentation Control Engineers focus on control systems and automation within industrial processes, whereas Electrical Engineers work on electrical power systems and circuitry. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What cities in California are hiring for Instrumentation Control Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrumentation Control Engineer job openings:

Instrumentation Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Control Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,940 per year, or $53.8 per hour.

Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer

Torrance, CA

Valar Atomics
See more jobs at Valar Atomicsexternal

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 15 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).

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