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Instrumentation Controls Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Automation and Controls Designer, you will apply your knowledge to assist in the development ... Create instrumentation schedules compliant with specifications. * Collaborate with the CAD ...

As an Automation and Controls Designer, you will apply your knowledge to assist in the development ... Create instrumentation schedules compliant with specifications. * Collaborate with the CAD ...

... Designs and installs new equipment and/or system modifications Update and maintain Computerized ... controls, and instrumentation * Demonstrated ability to calibrate I&C systems and equipment ...

Instrumentation & Controls Tech

Woodland, CA · On-site

$42.63 - $54.09/hr

... • Designs and installs new equipment and/or system modifications • Update and maintain ... controls, and instrumentation * Demonstrated ability to calibrate I&C systems and equipment ...

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Instrumentation Controls Designer information

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$34

$56

$71

How much do instrumentation controls designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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 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 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 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.

More about Instrumentation Controls Designer jobs
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 Engineer

Stratus Team LLC

Saint Paul, MN • On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

About Stratus

Stratus® is an integrated, multi-disciplinary engineering, architecture, interior design, and consulting firm. Consistently ranking among the Top 500 Design Firms in Engineering News-Record, the firm offers a deep bench of industry experts through a highly collaborative approach, delivering innovative solutions across the full project lifecycle. Operating coast to coast, Stratus® serves clients nationwide while maintaining a strategic commitment to supporting high-growth economies and building vibrant communities that foster the professional growth of its team. Serving public- and private-sector clients, the firm is dedicated to delivering the highest-quality service wherever projects take shape. Across the Civic, Commercial, Industrial, Transportation, Education, Water Resources, and Government sectors, we bring precision, insight, and purpose to every project, from targeted renovations to large-scale infrastructure. Stratus® designs spaces, systems, and solutions that perform, endure, and make an impact, delivering on our promise of Better Plans. Better Places.


The Role


Stratus® has recently partnered with Kestrel Engineering and we're hiring an Instrumentation & Controls Engineer to join us. This position includes support for all project phases, with particular focus in front-end engineering and detailed engineering. This role will be assigned as the instrumentation and controls engineering lead for projects and will be responsible for coordination and ensuring effective communication with other engineering disciplines.

Responsibilities


  • Responsible for preparing instruments and control system specifications, instrument data sheets and other standard discipline deliverables
  • Responsible for review of instrument and control systems vendor drawings and data. Interface with suppliers, clients, other engineering disciplines and designers
  • Participates in development of P&IDs, equipment/material specifications, logic diagrams, cause & effect diagrams, controls narratives, functional specifications and related instrumentation and controls documents

Qualifications


Required

  • BSc in engineering with minimum of 10 years’ experience in instrumentation and controls engineering for the petrochemical/oil & gas industries
  • Ability to lead quality management of discipline work processes and deliverables
  • Experienced with various control and interface systems (e.g., DCS, PLC, SCADA, HMI), including specification and integration design
  • Experienced in field instruments and control valve selection, calculation, and detailed specifications
  • Ability to constructively participate in risk management system sessions (e.g., HAZOP, HAZID, LOPA, SIL)
  • Knowledge of applicable design standards addressing instrumentation and controls design/engineering (e.g., API, NFPA, ISA, PIP, IEC, IEEE)
  • Familiarity with designing and supporting Safety Instrumented Systems (SIS), Safety Instrumented
  • Functions (SIF), Safety Integrity Levels (SIL), Layers of Protection Analysis (LOPA) and related activities
  • Strong communication skills, with ability to lead execution of work and resolve issues in a team environment
  • Capable of working directly with clients from proposal development through project execution
  • Eligibility to obtain or currently hold a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Preferred

  • PE license preferred with ability to register with NCEES and in other States of company practice
  • Previous consulting experience is strongly preferred

Why you’ll love Stratus


  • A team-oriented environment that values transparency, creativity, and shared success
  • Meaningful career paths, leadership opportunities, and space to specialize
  • Learning & Development – Education and Professional Licensing
  • We believe flexible, hybrid work supports the balance and well-being our team deserves
  • Excellent Health Care Programs – Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Company-paid Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability
  • Voluntary Life Insurance options for employees, spouses, and dependents
  • 401k Retirement Plan with employer match
  • Paid Holidays & Competitive PTO plans

Interested in learning more about Stratus, please visit https://www.stratusteam.com/.


Equal Opportunity Statement


Stratus is an Equal Opportunity Employer that does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, pregnancy-related conditions, and lactation), gender identity or expression (including transgender status), sexual orientation, marital status, military service and veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Stratus Team’s management Team is dedicated to this policy with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, access to facilities and programs, and general treatment during employment.