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Instrumentation Controls Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Controls Designer - Combustion Equipment is responsible for the design ... Develop instrumentation and controls engineering deliverables including instrument datasheets, I/O ...

Process Controls Designer with experience in Industrial Process Control Systems. These are the ... Instrumentation & Controls * Proven abilities in design, programming, start up, testing and ...

We are looking to hire an electrical/Instrumentation & controls designer. Responsibilities will include * Prepare electrical and instrumentation and controls (I&C) drawings. * Proficient with CAD ...

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Instrumentation Controls Designer information

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How much do instrumentation controls designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation controls designer in the United States is $56.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.52 and $65.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an instrumentation controls designer?

Instrumentation Controls Designers are professionals who design and develop systems that monitor and control engineering processes, usually in industrial settings such as manufacturing plants, oil and gas facilities, or power stations. They create layouts and specify the types of instruments and control devices needed to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable operation. Their work involves interpreting engineering blueprints, selecting appropriate sensors and controllers, and preparing detailed drawings for installation. They also collaborate with engineers and technicians to ensure that systems meet operational requirements and comply with industry standards.

How does an instrumentation controls designer typically collaborate with engineers and other team members during a project?

Instrumentation Controls Designers work closely with electrical, mechanical, and process engineers throughout all phases of a project. They are responsible for translating engineering requirements into detailed control system designs and schematics. Regular team meetings and design reviews ensure alignment on technical specifications, while ongoing communication with project managers and field personnel helps address challenges during installation and commissioning. Collaboration is key to ensuring that all control systems meet safety, quality, and performance standards.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Controls Designer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, instrumentation principles, and process control, often supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, PLC programming, and familiarity with industry standards like ISA are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These skills are crucial for designing reliable, safe, and efficient control systems that meet project and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Controls Designer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectInstrumentation Controls DesignerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Instrumentation, Controls, or related fieldBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsPower plants, construction sites, design offices, manufacturing
Industry UsageProcess control, automation, instrumentation systemsElectrical systems, power distribution, circuit design
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve electrical knowledge, Instrumentation Controls Designers focus on automation and control systems within industrial settings, whereas Electrical Engineers have a broader scope including power systems and circuit design. Understanding these differences helps employers and job seekers identify the right career path or job opportunity.

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What cities are hiring for Instrumentation Controls Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Instrumentation Controls Designer job openings:

What states have the most Instrumentation Controls Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Instrumentation Controls Designer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation Controls Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,026 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Instrumentation & Controls Designer

SSOE, Inc.

Hillsboro, OR โ€ข Hybrid

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Within SSOEโ€™s Advanced Technology division, we specialize in high-tech facility design, offering top-tier design and engineering services to a diverse array of clients and markets. Our team is composed of highly skilled and knowledgeable professionals who excel across various disciplines. We pride ourselves on our cross-disciplinary approach, which allows us to understand and address our clients' needs more comprehensively than traditional, siloed methods. What sets us apart is our ability to seamlessly conceptualize, plan, and detail every aspect of design. Our in-house experts collaborate closely, optimizing and enhancing our work through multi-discipline strategy sessions. By leveraging cutting-edge techniques and state-of-the-art software, we deliver industry-leading technology and innovative solutions from day one.

We are seeking an Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Designer to produce the I&C design deliverables for semiconductor fabrication facility design-build projects. This role sits within the electrical design and engineering group and serves as the primary interface between process/mechanical utility systems and the control systems that monitor and operate them. The successful candidate will develop complete I&C packages within the defined scope, schedule, and cost of the project.


At SSOE, we donโ€™t just talk about the future, we build it. As a leader in industry AI adoption, we empower our team to work smarter by providing responsible access to the industry leading AI Large Language Models, vibe-coding platforms, and securely integrating advanced tools into every role. From day one, youโ€™ll receive the training and support needed to leverage AI as a core tool for enhancing productivity, sparking creativity, and streamlining complex workflows.


  • Develop and maintain instrument indices, instrument datasheets, and specification packages for process utility systems.

  • Produce loop diagrams, wiring diagrams, termination schedules, and interconnect drawings from field devices to PLC/DCS/BAS I/O.

  • Design control panel general arrangements and internal layouts, including terminal schedules, enclosure sizing, and thermal calculations.

  • Generate I/O lists and point-to-point schedules; maintain alignment with controller card assignments and spare capacity requirements.

  • Develop instrument and control cable schedules, conduit schedules, and raceway routing with appropriate segregation from power circuits.

  • Model instrument and panel locations in Revit/AutoCAD; participate in clash detection and coordination reviews.
  • Coordinate with electrical designers on panel power sourcing, UPS-backed circuits, grounding, and shielding practices for analog and fieldbus signal runs.

  • Coordinate device placement with piping, HVAC, and structural disciplines to ensure calibration and maintenance access.

  • Support development of tool hookup packages, including utility interlocks, flow monitoring, and status/alarm points.

  • Interface with equipment vendors and OEMs on control interface requirements and submittal review.

  • Mentor and check the work of junior and mid-level designers.

  • Contribute to design standards, templates, and lessons learned.


  • Associate degree in engineering design technology, drafting, or a related technical field; equivalent trade or military technical training with demonstrated experience will be considered.

  • Approximately 10 years of instrumentation and controls design experience in industrial, pharmaceutical, microelectronics, or comparable process facility environments.

  • Demonstrated ability to independently produce a complete I&C design package with minimal oversight.

  • Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit; working familiarity with model coordination tools such as Navisworks.

  • Working knowledge of PLC and DCS hardware architectures, control panel construction, and field instrumentation types.

  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, one-line diagrams, and process flow diagrams.

  • Strong working knowledge of applicable electrical and fire codes and ISA instrumentation standards.

  • Salary Range: $80,000 - $100,000/year depending on location, education, depth of relevant experience, and any specialized licensure/certifications. Opportunity for ample rewards, leadership incentive components, and generous bonus opportunities.
  • Benefits: Includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401K retirement savings plan (with company matching), opportunities for professional development and training (including support for relevant licensure & certifications), and generous PTO & paid holidays.

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