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Instrumentation Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

The Controls & Instrumentation Technician is responsible for acceptance and maintenance testing of power distribution equipment and operation of the test equipment needed to perform the job.

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Instrumentation information

See Portland, OR salary details

$15

$30

$81

How much do instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation in Portland, OR is $30.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.92 and $31.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How long does it take to become an instrumentation technician?

Becoming an instrumentation technician typically requires completing a technical or community college program, which takes about 1 to 2 years, followed by on-the-job training or apprenticeships that can last 1 to 4 years. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the region and industry, and developing skills in electrical systems, control systems, and instrumentation tools is essential during this period.

What are instrumentation jobs?

Instrumentation jobs involve the installation, maintenance, and repair of devices and systems used to measure and control physical quantities such as pressure, flow, temperature, and level in industrial settings. Professionals in this field work with sensors, control systems, and automated equipment to ensure that processes operate efficiently and safely. They are essential in industries like manufacturing, oil and gas, pharmaceuticals, and power generation, where precise measurement and control are critical. Instrumentation technicians and engineers often collaborate with other technical staff to troubleshoot issues and implement new technologies.

What is the difference between Instrumentation vs Control Technician?

AspectInstrumentationControl Technician
Primary FocusDesign, installation, and maintenance of measurement and control instrumentsMaintaining and troubleshooting control systems and equipment
CertificationsInstrumentation certifications, PLC, and calibration skillsControl system certifications, PLC, and electrical skills
Work EnvironmentFactories, plants, industrial settingsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, oil & gas, power plantsCommon in process industries, automation sectors

Instrumentation professionals focus on the measurement and control devices that monitor and regulate industrial processes, while Control Technicians primarily troubleshoot and maintain control systems like PLCs and DCS. Both roles often overlap but differ in scope and specialization within industrial automation.

What are the qualifications to get an instrumentation job?

The qualifications to get an instrumentation job depends on the expertise level and complexity of the position. To become an instrumentation technician, you need at least a certificate or an associate degree in a field such as electro-mechanics, mechatronics, industrial maintenance, or process control. If you want to become an instrumentation engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a closely related subject. In addition to your educational requirements, you must have strong analytical problem-solving skills to work in instrumentation.

Is instrumentation a good career?

Instrumentation is a viable career that involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting control systems and instruments used in manufacturing, energy, and other industries. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and knowledge of tools like PLCs and sensors. The field offers steady employment opportunities and potential for advancement with experience and specialized training.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in instrumentation roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in instrumentation often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex control systems, ensuring accurate calibration of instruments, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. To address these, many teams prioritize continuous training, implement standardized maintenance procedures, and encourage collaboration between engineers, technicians, and operators. Being proactive in learning and leveraging digital tools can also help instrumentation professionals stay effective and resilient in dynamic industrial environments.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation technicians and engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and utilities due to the need for precise control systems and automation. Employment opportunities often require technical skills, certifications, and familiarity with tools like PLCs and SCADA systems, and the field is expected to grow as automation advances.

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

To thrive as an Instrumentation Technician, you need a solid understanding of electronics, process control, and instrumentation principles, usually backed by a relevant technical diploma or degree. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, calibration tools, and industry certifications such as ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) is often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure precise installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of instrumentation systems, directly impacting operational safety and efficiency.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs in Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in Portland, OR are:

What job categories do people searching Instrumentation jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrumentation jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Instrumentation jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Instrumentation job openings:

Infographic showing various Instrumentation job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $63,512 per year, or $30.5 per hour.

Controls & Instrumentation Technician

Pacific Northern Environmental LLC

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$28 - $35/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Job Summary


Taurus Power and Controls - a Pacific Northern Environmental LLC Company, is seeking a Controls & Instrumentation Technician who thrives in a fast-paced, team environment and has the ability to provide exceptional service to our company, clients, and employees.

Pacific Northern Environmental, LLC consists of five divisions including Advanced Electrical Technologies (AET), Taurus Power and Controls (Taurus), Cowlitz Clean Sweep (CCS), Pacific Northern Environmental Construction (PNEC), and WasteXpress Environmental (WXE). Together, we specialize in commercial and petroleum construction, industrial and commercial electrical, industrial cleaning, and hazardous waste disposal. PNE LLC is a multi-state organization with operating offices in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Hawaii. In addition, we carry out projects across the United States.

Since 1985, Taurus has been designing control systems, automating tasks, and fabricating control panels for industrial, municipal, and commercial customers-on time and on budget. Taurus is a NETA Accredited Company that offers full-service, third party, independent testing for all electrically powered systems and equipment. Being a 24/7 field service company remains at the core of what we do. We have expertise in a wide array of systems and industries, whether it's servicing projects we developed, or systems built by others.

The Controls & Instrumentation Technician is responsible for acceptance and maintenance testing of power distribution equipment and operation of the test equipment needed to perform the job.

Education and Experience Qualifications

  • Technical/associate's degree in related field or equivalent experience may be substituted.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.
  • Ability to travel up to 40% of the time to job sites (mostly located in the Pacific Northwest).
  • Strong knowledge of instrumentation, electrical systems, and industrial control panels.
  • Ability to read and understand P&IDs.
  • Ability to startup project specific instruments.
  • Understanding of PLC I/O schematics, relay logic, and signal flow
  • Understanding of motor control / VFD circuits.
  • Experience with current versions of Microsoft Office Suite and Adobe.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities with flexibility Team oriented, with the ability to work independently under general supervision.


Duties and Responsibilities

The Controls & Instrumentation Technician possessing the education and experience listed above performs the following:

  • Collaborate with engineering and project management teams to clarify requirements and tasks.
  • Receive and track instrumentation components through the instrumentation shop workflow
  • Power up, calibrate, and test instrumentation components in the instrumentation shop.
  • Complete and maintain detailed records of instrument calibration and tests.
  • Conduct point-to-point and power up testing of industrial control panels.
  • Complete documentation of control panel testing and redline control drawings as needed.
  • Demonstrate proper operation of industrial control panels to visiting customers during factory acceptance testing.
  • Perform field startup and commissioning of instrumentation and industrial control panels.
  • Complete and maintain documentation from field testing (I/O checkout forms, loop verification forms, operational readiness test forms, performance acceptance test forms).
  • Provide onsite training on instrumentation and controls components to customers.
  • Assit in selecting instrumentation selection and the development of instrumentation schedules.
  • Assist with the creation of instrumentation submittals and O&Ms (Operation and Maintenance manuals).
  • Minor PLC code modifications during field service or commissioning.
  • Provide occasional onsite troubleshooting and field service Support as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned

Working Conditions and Physical Requirements

The candidate must possess and be adaptable to the following physical abilities and working conditions:

  • Move about the jobsite as needed.
  • Move work related equipment up to 50lbs.
  • Remain in a stationary position for long periods of time.
  • Operate various technological devices, including but not limited to a computer.
  • Occasionally ascend/descend ladders and/or stairs.

Employee Benefit Program

Pacific Northern Environmental, LLC presently provides coverage for:

  • Medical, Dental & Vision options with low premiums for employees and eligible dependents
  • Life AD&D - Voluntary and Company paid.
  • Specialty RX programs.
  • Group AFLAC options - Hospital, Critical, Accident and short-term Disability Plans
  • Pre-Tax Flexible Savings Account (FSA)
  • Pre-Tax Dependent Care Savings Account (DCSA)
  • Telehealth by Teladoc.
  • 401(k) with discretionary annual company matching contributions.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Paid Trainings and Certifications
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Holiday for qualifying employees
  • Up to $2,000 per year profit sharing for qualifying employees
  • Annual company events
  • Safety Incentives

Please apply directly -

***Not open to outside recruiters***

Pacific Northern Environmental, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

This job description is a general description of essential job functions. It is not intended as an employment contract, nor is it intended to describe all duties someone in this position may perform. All employees of Pacific Northern Environmental, LLC (PNE, LLC) are expected to perform tasks as assigned by PNE supervisory/management personnel, regardless of job title or routine job duties.

This position has been determined as "safety sensitive," as defined as a position wherein an accident could cause human life, serious bodily injury, or significant property or environmental damage and is therefore subject to pre-employment drug screening including that of THC.

We are a Drug and Alcohol-Free Workplace. All new hires are subject to testing in accordance with local, federal, and state guidelines.


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