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Instrumentation Trainee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Baldwin Park, CA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Troubleshoots systems including but not limited to: electrical, instrumentation and controls ... Train, mentor and coach trainees and front line automation techs * Perform additional duties as ...

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Instrumentation Trainee information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an instrumentation trainee?

To thrive as an Instrumentation Trainee, you need a solid understanding of electronics, measurement principles, and basic process control, often supported by a relevant diploma or technical degree. Familiarity with tools like multimeters, calibrators, and industry-standard PLC or SCADA systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn help trainees excel when troubleshooting and working in team environments. These competencies ensure accurate instrument maintenance, reliable data collection, and safe, efficient operations in industrial settings.

What is an instrumentation trainee?

Instrumentation Trainees are entry-level professionals who learn to install, maintain, and repair instruments and control systems used in various industries, such as manufacturing, oil and gas, or utilities. They work under the supervision of experienced technicians or engineers to understand how different instruments measure and control variables like pressure, temperature, and flow. The trainees often participate in both classroom and hands-on training to develop their technical and safety skills. This foundational role prepares them for advanced positions in instrumentation and control engineering.

What are some common challenges faced by instrumentation trainees during their initial months on the job?

Instrumentation Trainees often encounter challenges such as adapting to complex technical systems, learning to interpret detailed wiring diagrams, and staying updated with safety protocols. Working alongside experienced technicians, trainees are expected to quickly familiarize themselves with various instruments used for monitoring and control in industrial environments. Balancing hands-on work with ongoing training sessions and troubleshooting unfamiliar equipment can be demanding, but this period is crucial for building foundational skills. Open communication with mentors and proactive learning can help overcome these initial hurdles.

What is the difference between Instrumentation Trainee vs Instrumentation Technician?

AspectInstrumentation TraineeInstrumentation Technician
QualificationsTypically a diploma or degree in instrumentation or related field, with on-the-job trainingRelevant certifications and practical experience in instrumentation maintenance and repair
Work EnvironmentTraining sites, industrial plants, or manufacturing facilities under supervisionOperational industrial settings, performing maintenance and troubleshooting
Job RoleLearning and assisting in instrumentation tasks, gaining hands-on experiencePerforming routine and preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration

In summary, an Instrumentation Trainee is in the learning phase, focusing on gaining skills and experience, while an Instrumentation Technician is a skilled professional responsible for maintaining and repairing instrumentation systems in industrial environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs in California? The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Instrumentation Trainee job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Controls Engineer

City Brewing Co

Baldwin Park, CA • On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


City Brewing Company rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 436 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

City Brewing Company – Who We Are

With our roots in La Crosse, WI, we are proud to be North America’s largest co-packager of alcoholic beverages with four locations across the United States. Through our focuses on Safety throughout our facilities, Quality of products produced for our customers, Communication at all levels, Growth of not just our locations but also of our employees in their careers, and Performance with our ability to meet deadlines and goals for ourselves and our customers, we pride ourselves on the brand we have created and continue to grow.


Job Summary

Controls Engineers are key to ensuring the success and efficiency of our highspeed equipment throughout our production and warehousing spaces. This individual will work in a variety of areas of the manufacturing facility developing PLC and HMI code for automated packaging equipment while also troubleshooting industrial controls and electrical systems. They will also provide mentorship and coaching to our Controls Technicians and ensure Operations leaders are informed of any challenges or opportunities of improvement on the floor.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Design and program all aspects of PLC/HMI software for packaging equipment
  • Test and debug control systems
  • Create, update, and modify machine, part or facilities schematics using a CAD program
  • Both AC and DC Drive experience with various drive platforms
  • Write and modify, extensive PLC’s and HMI’s programs for the following:
    • Rockwell Automation Allen Bradley
    • Modicon
    • Troubleshoot or establish control networks.
    • EtherNet / IP
    • DeviceNet
    • DH-485
    • Modbus
    • Modbus Plus
  • Troubleshoots systems including but not limited to: electrical, instrumentation and controls
  • Electrical schematic design and drafting using AutoCAD Electrical
  • Troubleshoots process control systems in particular packaging line control systems
  • Performs all duties within GMP standards
  • Performs all functions as required within the CMMS
  • Train, mentor and coach trainees and front line automation techs
  • Perform additional duties as assigned
  • Responsible for department compliance with GMP, HACCP and FSMA guidelines


Minimum Qualifications

  • Degree in Electrical Engineering, or 5+ years’ experience in PLC controls engineering in lieu of degree
  • Alen Bradley PLC and motion controls experience
  • Skilled in RS Logix 500 and Studio
  • Prior experience in root cause analysis and continuous improvement
  • System process controls and line balancing experience
  • Advanced knowledge of electrical systems, control power and drives, sanitary control principals, operation and trouble shooting
  • Excellent communication, planning, and prioritization
  • Strong leadership and team skills


Benefits/Compensation

City Brewery provides a competitive salary and benefit package that includes: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Long Term Disability Insurance; Section 125; 401(k) and a paid 30-minute meal period. The Company also contributes monthly towards the employee elected health and dental benefits.


Selected candidate must be willing to work any and all shifts, weekends and holidays when necessary to cover the needs of the business.


City Brewery is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all applicants will be considered without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.


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