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Instrumentation Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Worley

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

The Senior Instrumentation Engineer provides instrumentation and controls engineering services on large or mega projects for Worley and its clients. This role includes delivering high-quality ...

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$86K - $120K/yr

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and ...

Lockheed Martin

Instrumentation Engineer

Edwards, CA · On-site

Instrumentation Operations Engineers are responsible for integrating requirements and programming new instrumentation data acquisition equipment, FTI fiber system, analog and digital signal ...

Vast

Test Instrumentation Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

$110K - $155K/yr

Vast is looking for a Test Instrumentation Engineer , reporting to the Senior Manager, Engineering (E-2), to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design, build, and ...

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Cable Technician, 2

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$20.75 - $26.25/hr

Overview Wanted: a detail oriented candidate with 2 years structured cabling experience to be our next Cable Technician 2 in McLean, VA Responsibilities * Work independently or as part of a crew ...

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All JobsInstrumentation Engineer JobsInstrumentation Engineer Jobs in California

Instrumentation Engineer information

See California salary details

$12.3K

$103.5K

$161.9K

How much do instrumentation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrumentation engineer in California is $103,523.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $129,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and electrical engineering can earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced skills, management responsibilities, or work in high-demand industries.

What are Instrumentation Engineers?

Instrumentation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, install, manage, and maintain equipment used to monitor and control engineering systems, machinery, and processes. They work primarily in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, power generation, and chemical processing. Their main goal is to ensure that these systems operate efficiently, safely, and within regulatory standards by using instruments like sensors, control systems, and automation technologies. Instrumentation Engineers often collaborate with other engineering disciplines to optimize and troubleshoot complex processes.

What are some common challenges Instrumentation Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Instrumentation Engineers frequently collaborate with professionals from mechanical, electrical, and process engineering backgrounds, which can present coordination challenges. Aligning instrumentation requirements with broader project timelines and ensuring compatibility with other systems often requires clear communication and adaptability. Additionally, troubleshooting integration issues and maintaining safety and compliance standards are ongoing aspects of the role. Successful Instrumentation Engineers develop strong teamwork and problem-solving skills to navigate these complexities.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectInstrumentation EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Instrumentation, Control Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, process industries, automation systemsPower plants, electrical systems, construction sites
Industry UsageProcess control, automation, manufacturingPower generation, electrical infrastructure, electronics
Job FocusDesign, install, and maintain control systems and instrumentationDesign, develop, and maintain electrical systems and circuits

Instrumentation Engineers primarily focus on control systems and automation within manufacturing and process industries, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems across various sectors. Both roles require technical certifications and often overlap in industrial environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What does an instrumentation engineer do?

An instrumentation engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems and instruments used in manufacturing, processing, and industrial environments. They work with sensors, controllers, and automation equipment to ensure accurate measurement and operation of machinery, often using tools like PLCs and SCADA systems. Their role involves troubleshooting, calibration, and ensuring safety standards are met.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Instrumentation Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid understanding of instrumentation and control systems, process automation, and a degree in engineering (typically electrical, electronics, or instrumentation). Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, DCS, and relevant industry certifications such as ISA CAP are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in project teams and troubleshoot complex systems. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of industrial processes.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior roles in software or data science can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior-level engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain software engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or managerial engineering positions may also reach this compensation level, often including bonuses and stock options.
What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California? For Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Instrumentation Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Instrumentation Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation Engineer jobs in CA? For Instrumentation Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Instrumentation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,523 per year, or $49.8 per hour.
Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Worley

Monrovia, CA • On-site

$130K - $191K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Worley rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 369 rated engineering

Job description

Building on our past. Ready for the future
Worley is a global professional services company of energy, chemicals and resources experts headquartered in Australia.
Right now, we're bridging two worlds as we accelerate to more sustainable energy sources, while helping our customers provide the energy, chemicals and resources that society needs now.
We partner with our customers to deliver projects and create value over the life of their portfolio of assets. We solve complex problems by finding integrated data-centric solutions from the first stages of consulting and engineering to installation and commissioning, to the last stages of decommissioning and remediation. Join us and help drive innovation and sustainability in our projects.
Purpose:
The Senior Instrumentation Engineer provides instrumentation and controls engineering services on large or mega projects for Worley and its clients. This role includes delivering high-quality technical work, providing guidance within the Instrumentation & Controls team, and ensuring all engineering activities meet quality, cost, safety, and schedule requirements.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure all engineering and design activities comply with quality, cost, and schedule targets.
  • Ensure all work is performed safely and in accordance with Worley and client safety standards.
  • Ensure all designs comply with client specifications, applicable codes, and agreed industry standards.
  • Perform instrumentation and controls engineering and design deliverables as part of a multidisciplinary project team.
  • Interpret and apply client specifications and technical requirements.
  • Coordinate and communicate effectively with other disciplines and client representatives.
  • Comply with the Worley Quality Assurance system and applicable procedures.
  • Identify technical issues, develop appropriate solutions, and seek assistance when required.
  • Provide guidance and support to junior personnel within the Instrumentation & Controls team when needed.
  • Stay current with industry developments, standards, and technical innovations in instrumentation and controls engineering.
  • Act as Instrumentation & Controls Engineering Lead on assigned projects, when required.
  • Provide technical input and support during procurement, construction, and commissioning phases as needed.

What you will bring
Technical/Industry Experience and Qualifications Requirements:
  • Working knowledge of Instrumentation & Control deliverables such as:
    • Panel (JB and Marshalling) Design.
    • P&ID's.
    • Loop Drawings.
    • Wiring Drawings.
    • Motor Control Schematics.
    • Instrument Location Drawings.
    • Instrument Installation Details.
    • Instrument Specifications (Datasheets).
    • I/O Lists.
    • Bill of Materials.
    • Conduit/Cable Tray/Cable Schedules.
    • Control Narratives.
    • Cause and Effect Diagrams.
    • Material Requisitions.
  • Construction or Engineering Work Packages. Working knowledge of Instrumentation Calculation/Selection, such as:
    • Flow (Orifice Plates, Vortex, Venturi, Magnetic, Ultrasonic meters).
    • Level Measurement (Radar, Displacers, Gauges).
    • Temperature (including Thermowells Freq. wake calculation).
    • Pressure.
    • Process Analyzers and sampling systems would be a plus.
    • Competent use of instrument calculation/selection specific software.
  • Working knowledge (design/configuration/implementation) of any of the following systems:
    • PLCs, preferable Modicon, GE, or AB/Rockwell.
    • SISs, preferable Triconex.
    • DCS, preferable Honeywell TDC/TPS/Experion, Foxboro I/A, ABBxA.
  • Additional Information:
    • Knowledge of applicable industry codes and standards related to instrumentation and control systems.
    • Ability to manage multiple small to medium projects concurrently.
    • Working knowledge of computer aided design (CAD) software.
    • Experience with SmartPlant Instrumentation (SPI).
    • Knowledge of communication networks is an advantage.
    • Proficient in MS Office Suite and other relevant engineering software.

Education - Qualifications, Accreditation, Training:
Required:
  • Accredited Engineering Degree in General Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering or related equivalent degree combined experience Typically, 12 plus years' experience.

Preferred:
  • 8+ years of direct Instrumentation & Control design and engineering experience.
  • Registered PE in Control Systems or to be able to obtain PE license.
  • Experience in S3D .
  • SmartPlant Instrumentation (SPI) software training (including wiring module) is a plus.
  • ARAMCO Experience: Well versed and experienced with ARAMCO SAES standards.
  • Knowledgeable in Gas Compression and Gas processing.

Additional Information:
  • This position is in California.
  • Salary Range $130,404-$191,771.
  • Benefits: eligible for PTO, 401k, medical, vision, dental, etc.

Los Angeles
We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance." #LI-AC1
Moving forward together
We want our people to be energized and empowered to drive sustainable impact. So, our focus is on a values-inspired culture that unlocks brilliance through belonging, connection and innovation.
We're building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace. Creating a space where everyone feels they belong, can be themselves, and are heard.
And we're not just talking about it; we're doing it. We're reskilling our people, leveraging transferable skills, and supporting the transition of our workforce to become experts in today's low carbon energy infrastructure and technology.
Whatever your ambition, there's a path for you here. And there's no barrier to your potential career success. Join us to broaden your horizons, explore diverse opportunities, and be part of delivering sustainable change.
We're committed to building a diverse, inclusive and respectful workplace where everyone feels they belong, can bring themselves, and are heard. We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to age, race, creed, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, citizenship status or any other basis as protected by federal, state, or local law.
Our policy is to conduct background checks for all candidates who accept an offer of employment with us.
Please note: No agency representation or submissions will be recognized for this vacancy.

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