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Instrumentation Control Engineer Jobs in California

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 ...

Instrumentation & Controls Tech

Woodland, CA · On-site

$42.63 - $54.09/hr

This is a "journeymen" level position with a high degree of knowledge of instrumentation, controls ... control systems, programmable logic controllers, motor control centers, transformers, generators ...

Instrumentation & Controls Tech

Woodland, CA · On-site

$42.63 - $54.09/hr

This is a "journeymen" level position with a high degree of knowledge of instrumentation, controls ... control systems, programmable logic controllers, motor control centers, transformers, generators ...

Showing results 21-40

Instrumentation Control Engineer information

See California salary details

$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:

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.

Process Control Engineer

Richmond, CA • On-site

Chevron
Oil and Coal Products Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$120K - $237K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Chevron rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 225 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Total Number of Openings

1

Chevron is accepting online applications for the position Process Control Engineerthrough September 18, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time).

A Process Control Engineer designs, implements, and maintains multivariable control applications (DMC3, GDOT) and supporting applications (inferred properties, etc.) to control and optimize process unit performance in a facility. Additional responsibilities include configuring and supporting process control strategies/regulatory logic, tuning of control loops, support of Honeywell TDC-3000 DCS and Honeywell Experion (C300), alarm management, and support & assistance in training console operators. Requires regular communication with many work groups including Operations, Maintenance, Technical, and Planning. Individual reports to the Process Control Team Leader within the refinery.

Responsibilities for this position may include but are not limited to:

  • Implement, deploy, and maintain multivariable process control applications, including inferential calculations to support advanced control and optimization, that are consistent with short-term and long-term operating plans.
  • Implement and maintain basic and advanced regulatory process control strategies.
  • Provide alarm management support by monitoring alarm system performance, identifying and addressing nuisance alarms, and partnering with Operations to improve alarm effectiveness.
  • Provide daily process control support for console operators.
  • Collaborate with site personnel to deliver evergreen network & security compliance for basic & advanced process control applications.
  • Identify and resolve control performance issues by coordinating with colleagues in other areas of specialization (instrumentation, analyzers, process, mechanical equipment, etc.).
  • Identify and capture opportunities for improving the safety, reliability, profitability, and operability of the operating area through process control improvements.
  • Train refinery personnel on the effective use of process control applications and systems.
  • Act as a mentor/resource for refinery process and control engineers. Influence and improve work processes for a global refining technical system.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of operating area interactions with the rest of the refinery and help troubleshoot process problems in the operating area and refinery.
  • Maintain and grow process control skills by attending onsite and offsite training.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering.
  • Minimum of 5-7 years of Mfg. process control engineering experience.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with Petroleum Refining processes and/or Blending Operation.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with basic & advanced/multivariable process control and DCS (Honeywell TPS and Experion (C300)).
  • Effective oral & written communication skills with a wide variety of audiences and stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Bachelor Chemical Engineering degree or greater.
  • 10+ years in Refinery Mfg. process control engineering.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with basic and advanced/multivariable process control and DCS, specifically with AspenTech DMC and/or GDOT.
  • Demonstrated competency and business impact in Petroleum Refining Processes, ideally via process control contributions.
  • Familiarity with analytical tools such as PI, SEEQ, Excel.

Relocation Options:

Relocation may be considered.

International Considerations:

Expatriate assignments will not be considered.

Chevron regrets that it is unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider individuals on time-limited Visa status for this position.

Regulatory Disclosure for US Positions:

  • The compensation and reference to benefits for this role is listed on this posting in compliance with applicable law. The selected candidate's compensation will be determined based on his or her skills, experience, and qualifications. Please note that the compensation and benefits listed below are only applicable to successful candidates who are hired onto local United States payroll.

  • The anticipated salary range for this position is $120,300 - $237,800.

  • Chevron offers competitive compensation and benefits programs which includes, but is not limited to, variable pay, health care coverage, retirement plan, protection coverage, time off and leave programs, training and development opportunities and a range of allowances connected to specific work situations. Details are available at http://hr2.chevron.com/.

U.S. Regulatory notice:

Chevron is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin or ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, reproductive health decision-making, military or veteran status, political preference, marital status, citizenship, genetic information or other characteristics protected by applicable law.

We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation, please email us at emplymnt@chevron.com.

Chevron participates in E-Verify in certain locations as required by law.


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About Chevron

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chevron is one of the world's leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and seeking to grow lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

Industry

Oil and coal products manufacturing, civic and social organizations and oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

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