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Instrumentation Control Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

DTE Energy

Instrumentation & Controls Tech

Woodland, CA

$42.63 - $54.09/hr

... control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states. But we're more than a leading ... This is a "journeymen" level position with a high degree of knowledge of instrumentation, controls ...

DTE Energy

Instrumentation & Controls Tech

Woodland, CA · On-site

$42.63 - $54.09/hr

... control technologies, and energy services to industries in 19 states. But we're more than a leading ... This is a "journeymen" level position with a high degree of knowledge of instrumentation, controls ...

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All JobsInstrumentation Control JobsInstrumentation Control Jobs in California

Instrumentation Control information

See California salary details

$40.5K

$68.6K

$111K

How much do instrumentation control jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrumentation control in California is $68,598.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $89,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by instrumentation control professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Instrumentation Control professionals often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex automated systems, keeping up with rapidly advancing technology, and ensuring system reliability under tight schedules. Successful professionals stay current with industry standards and new tools through continuous training and certifications. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, maintenance staff, and IT personnel—helps in resolving issues efficiently and maintaining optimal system performance.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Control Technician, you need a strong background in electronics, process control, and instrumentation, typically backed by a relevant technical diploma or degree. Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), distributed control systems (DCS), and calibration tools is essential, and certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork help technicians excel in troubleshooting and maintaining complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated industrial processes.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Control vs Instrumentation Technician?

AspectInstrumentation ControlInstrumentation Technician
CertificationsTypically requires certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Often holds similar certifications, including CCST or equivalent
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systems in industrial settingsInstall, maintain, and repair instrumentation equipment on-site
Job FocusSystem integration, control logic, and automationEquipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting

Instrumentation Control professionals focus on designing and managing control systems and automation processes, while Instrumentation Technicians primarily handle installation, maintenance, and repair of instrumentation equipment. Both roles require similar certifications and often work together in industrial environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

Is instrumentation and control a good career?

Instrumentation and control is a stable career that involves designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems used in manufacturing, energy, and industrial processes. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. The field offers opportunities for advancement and steady employment due to the ongoing need for automation and process control expertise.

What is an instrumentation control job?

Instrumentation control jobs involve designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems used to monitor and manage industrial processes. Professionals in this field ensure that equipment such as sensors, transmitters, and control valves function accurately and efficiently. These roles are critical in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, power generation, and pharmaceuticals, where precise control of variables like temperature, pressure, and flow is essential for safety and productivity. Instrumentation control specialists may also work on integrating automated systems and ensuring compliance with safety standards.

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

The most popular types of Instrumentation Control jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation Control jobs in California?

For Instrumentation Control jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Instrumentation Control jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrumentation Control jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Instrumentation Control jobs?

Cities in California with the most Instrumentation Control job openings:

Instrumentation Control jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Control job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,598 per year, or $33 per hour.

Principal Instrumentation & Control Engineer

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

$196K - $240K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 16 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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