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Instrumentation Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Calibrates instrumentation equipment and provide necessary written calibration data. * Troubleshoots faulty equipment and performs necessary repairs by referring to complex wiring diagrams, drawings ...

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Instrumentation Specialist information

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$41K

$69.5K

$112.5K

How much do instrumentation specialist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for instrumentation specialist in the United States is $69,508.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $91,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Specialist, you need a strong background in electronics, instrumentation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Proficiency with calibration tools, PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), and industrial control systems software is commonly required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for diagnosing issues and collaborating with engineering teams. These skills ensure accurate instrumentation, system reliability, and safety in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Instrumentation Specialists when troubleshooting complex control systems?

Instrumentation Specialists often encounter challenges such as diagnosing issues in highly integrated control systems where multiple components interact. Identifying the root cause requires a strong understanding of both the hardware and software involved, as well as the ability to interpret technical schematics and process diagrams. Collaboration with engineers, operations staff, and vendors is frequently necessary to resolve problems efficiently. Staying current with evolving technologies and adhering to strict safety protocols are also essential aspects of the role.

What are Instrumentation Specialists?

Instrumentation Specialists are professionals responsible for installing, maintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems used in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and utilities. They ensure that instruments measuring variables like temperature, pressure, flow, and level operate accurately and reliably. Their work is crucial for process efficiency, safety, and regulatory compliance. Instrumentation Specialists may also assist in designing and upgrading control systems to improve automation and productivity.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Specialist vs Instrument Technician?

AspectInstrumentation SpecialistInstrument Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in instrumentation, electronics, or related field; certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are common.Usually holds a diploma or certificate in instrumentation or electronics; certifications like NCCER Instrumentation Technician are often preferred.
Work EnvironmentWorks in industrial plants, manufacturing facilities, or energy sectors, focusing on system installation, calibration, and troubleshooting.Operates in similar environments, performing maintenance, calibration, and repair of instruments and control systems.
Job FocusDesigns, installs, and maintains complex instrumentation systems and control processes.Maintains and repairs existing instrumentation equipment and ensures proper functioning.

While both roles involve working with instrumentation and control systems, the Instrumentation Specialist typically handles system design and installation, whereas the Instrument Technician focuses on maintenance and repair. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities differ.

More about Instrumentation Specialist jobs
What cities are hiring for Instrumentation Specialist jobs? Cities with the most Instrumentation Specialist job openings:
What states have the most Instrumentation Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Instrumentation Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Specialist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 44% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $69,508 per year, or $33.4 per hour.
Instrumentation Specialist

Instrumentation Specialist

Applied Industrial Technologies

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Applied Industrial Technologies rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

203rd of 331 rated retail wholesalers


Job description

Join the Pharmaceutical Calibrations and Instrumentation (PCI) team! We are seeking a full time Instrumentation Specialist to perform repairs and maintenance on laboratory equipment at our client's pharmaceutical facilities. Please review the job description below and apply if you would like to be considered. If you prefer working on the go instead of at a desk, have a passion for performing quality work, and have a strong laboratory instrumentation background, this position may be just for you!
The Instrumentation Specialist reports directly to the Team Lead, Team Manager or Director. These positions are non-exempt. Up to fifty percent travel may be required but is not currently anticipated.
Expectations:
The Instrumentation Specialist provides high-level instrumentation field services for clients including calibration services, maintenance services, project services, and some consulting support. The Instrumentation Specialists may also support the development of or develop/provide internal and/or external technical training. The Instrumentation Specialist is expected to provide onsite process and/or analytical services as it relates to startup projects, installations, fixed-duration, and long term contracts for existing facilities. They consistently uphold PCI Values and demonstrate Honesty, Integrity, Pride, Accountability, Teamwork, and Commitment.
Responsibilities/Assignments:
  • Conducts high level and technically complex repairs, calibrations, qualifications, and PM's with accurate and timely GxP documentation, following PCI or client specific policies and procedures, and in a safe manner.
  • Provides guidance, direction and effective solutions to clients and PCI technical resources.
  • Proactively takes steps to ensure PCI and client owned equipment is handled and maintained properly, as well as trains other associates on proper use and handling.
  • Development of client quotes and proposals.
  • Identifies and initiates scope changes and communicates to client, as well as, processes the scope change request and uses proper documentation ensuring that time coding and billing are accurate with regard to the scope change.
  • Proactively assesses project safety concerns and ensures PCI team members are in compliance with any and all client and/or PCI site safety requirements.
  • Strategically assesses client environments, needs, and requirements to develop and initiate effective solutions and through established solid relationships with clients, delivers successful execution.
  • May lead projects and serve as "Account Manager" for select clients based on strong client ties and business needs.
  • Understands and executes GMP and compliance practices as it relates to PCI clients and their instrumentation needs.
  • Resource scheduling, account management and maintaining PCI client/project files in accordance with company procedures.
  • Develops functional instrument requirements and procures instruments for clients.
  • Performs and oversees equipment services and instrument procurement; partnering with and assisting third party technical services.

Skills Required:
  • Expert in-depth knowledge and application of a wide variety and type of instrumentation, equipment, and loop calibrations of various parameters in manufacturing, utilities, and laboratory environments.
  • Exceptional Computer Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) skills.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Strong written skills, with the ability to develop and create quotes or proposals.
  • Thorough electrical panel knowledge and safety practices.
  • Excellent negotiation skills with direct identification, development, and implementation of negotiation policies and processes in accordance with PCI objectives. Develops negotiation strategy on complex issues. Significant ability to effectively influence and guide others.
  • Understands the business case and has an appreciation of financial issues and profit and loss implications. Excellent analytical skills with attention to detail while keeping strategic company goals in focus.
  • Sought after by technical industry for advice on technical issues. Provides both on the job and specialized technical training. Strong applied and working knowledge of FDA, GMP, GLP compliance and NIST traceability. Expert knowledge of test equipment and capabilities such as tolerance requirements and 4:1 TAR.
  • Involved with an external professional organization (ISPE, ASQ, PDA, etc.).
  • Ability to interpret proposals and coordinate activities to accomplish the approved scope.
  • Extensive instrumentation and controls troubleshooting skills.
  • Extensive experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Understanding of Validation principles and how it relates to calibrations.
  • Thorough understanding and troubleshooting capability with incubators, centrifuges, balances, refrigerators and freezers, stability chambers, chromatography (HPLC or GC), spectrophotometers, other general laboratory equipment as needed per clients.
  • Dependent upon client needs, may require thorough understanding and working capability with RT-PCR, bio analyzers, gel imagers, scintillation counters, and cytometers; Histology Equipment, such as microtomes, slide strainers, tissue processors, harvesters, homogenizers, and microscopes; and/or Liquid Automation / Robotics / HTS, such as liquid handlers, plate stackers, plate readers, and plate washers.

Experience & Education Required for Instrumentation Specialist:
A two-year or four-year degree in Engineering, Management, Life Sciences, or other related technical field (or equivalent military training) and four or more years of intense instrumentation experience in the Pharmaceutical/Quality industry or the equivalent combination of applicable education and experience.
PCI is proud to serve pharmaceutical, biotechnology, medical device, and clinical research industries nationwide by providing calibration, commissioning and consulting solutions. At PCI, calibrations are performed by highly technical, cGMP/GLP-trained personnel who are knowledgeable in quality guidelines enforced by the FDA, EPA and ISO/IEC 17025:2017. PCI is an FCX Performance Company and a Subsidiary of Applied Industrial Technologies (NYSE: AIT); a leading industrial distributor that offers more than 6.5 million parts to serve the needs of MRO and OEM customers in virtually every industry.
Founded in 1923, Applied® provides engineering, design and systems integration for industrial and fluid power applications, as well as customized mechanical, fabricated rubber and fluid power shop services. Applied also offers storeroom services and inventory management solutions that provide added value to our customers.
Applied Industrial Technologies is built on a philosophy that puts people first. We are an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to a workforce in which we enforce fair treatment and provide growth opportunities for everyone. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of age, race, color, national origin, genetics, religion, gender, marital status, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.

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