ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Instrumentation Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Manassas, VA

$115K - $140K/yr

The Role As our Senior Instrumentation Engineer, you'll design, build, and maintain the instrumentation and data acquisition systems that power Electra's ground and flight test programs. This is a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsInstrumentation JobsInstrumentation Jobs in Washington, DC

Instrumentation information

See Washington, DC salary details

$16

$32

$86

How much do instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for instrumentation in Washington, DC is $32.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $33.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

How long does it take to become an instrumentation technician?

Becoming an instrumentation technician typically requires completing a technical diploma or associate degree, which takes about 1 to 2 years. Many technicians also gain hands-on experience through apprenticeships or on-the-job training, which can add additional months to a year depending on the program and employer requirements.

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 can you do with instrumentation?

Instrumentation involves designing, installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting measurement and control systems used in various industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. Instrumentation professionals work with sensors, controllers, and calibration tools to ensure accurate data collection and process regulation, often requiring knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software systems. Certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) can enhance job prospects in this field.

What kind of job is instrumentation?

Instrumentation jobs involve designing, installing, maintaining, and repairing measurement and control systems used in industrial processes. These roles often require knowledge of sensors, control systems, and tools like PLCs, with certifications such as ISA or OSHA sometimes preferred. Workers typically operate in manufacturing, energy, or automation environments and may need to follow safety protocols and work flexible schedules.
More about Instrumentation jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC?

For Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Instrumentation jobs in Washington, DC are:

Instrumentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Instrumentation job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,575 per year, or $32.5 per hour.

Senior Instrumentation Engineer

Electra

Manassas, VA

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Electra

At Electra, we're building the EL9 — a nine-passenger, hybrid-electric aircraft that takes off and lands in 150 feet. Our Ultra Short technology unlocks thousands of new operating locations and enables what we call Direct Aviation: quiet, point-to-point regional travel that gets people from where they are to where they want to go, without the congestion of major airports or the noise of conventional aviation.

A global company, headquartered in Manassas, VA, Electra is backed by Lockheed Martin, Honeywell, and Safran, has filed for FAA Part 23 type certification, and carries 2,000+ intent to purchase from operators worldwide. We're a team of ~100 people moving fast toward first EL9 test flights in 2027 and certification by late 2029 or 2030. Every hire matters at this stage — and this role is no exception.

The Role

As our Senior Instrumentation Engineer, you'll design, build, and maintain the instrumentation and data acquisition systems that power Electra's ground and flight test programs. This is a hands-on technical role with high visibility - the quality of your work directly determines the quality of the data engineering relies on to advance the EL9 toward FAA Part 23 certification. You'll work closely with the Systems Test Manager and flight test team to stand up a capability built for a certification program, not adapted from one.

What You'll Do

  • Design, install, and maintain sensor systems, signal conditioning hardware, and data acquisition systems for ground and flight test applications.
  • Develop and manage data acquisition architectures that capture test data across avionics, propulsion, structural, and flight control systems.
  • Collaborate with test and engineering teams to define instrumentation requirements and ensure data quality meets certification standards.
  • Develop calibration procedures and maintain traceability of all instrumentation systems.
  • Support SIL/HIL lab development with instrumentation integration and signal interface design.
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation anomalies in real time during ground and flight test operations.
  • Document instrumentation designs, configurations, and test procedures to support FAA certification activities.

What You Bring

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or related engineering degree or equivalent experience (aerospace, electrical, or mechanical preferred).
  • 8+ years of experience in instrumentation and data acquisition for aerospace ground or flight test programs.
  • Hands-on experience with sensor selection, signal conditioning, and DAS hardware (e.g., Curtiss-Wright, Amphenol, HBK, or similar).
  • Proficiency with instrumentation software and data processing tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, or equivalent).
  • Experience developing instrumentation plans and test procedures in support of CAA (FAA/EASA) certification programs preferred.
  • Strong understanding of avionics, propulsion, or structural test environments.
  • S. Person (Citizen or Permanent Resident) required.

This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus and comprehensive benefits.

Compensation Range
$115,000—$140,000 USD

What We Offer

  • Competitive salary and equity
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
  • Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Paid winter break
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting
  • Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
  • Free on-site parking

Electra is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position may be subject to ITAR requirements.

Apply