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Junior Instrument Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

calumet

Maintenance I (SPLA)

Shreveport, LA · On-site

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior technicians and apprentices * Interpret and utilize: * Loop diagrams * P&IDs * Instrument datasheets and specifications * Ensure compliance with ...

RJ Lee Group, Inc

Junior Analyst

Pasco, WA · On-site

Junior Analyst is a mid-level laboratory technician who performs technical testing and analytical ... This position requires working knowledge of laboratory protocols, data analysis, and instrument ...

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How much do junior instrument technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior instrument technician in the United States is $26.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $33.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Junior Instrument Technician vs Instrument Technician?

AspectJunior Instrument TechnicianInstrument Technician
CertificationsTypically entry-level certifications or apprenticeshipsAdvanced certifications, such as ISA certifications or equivalent
Work ExperienceLess than 2 years or on-the-job training2+ years of experience in instrumentation maintenance and repair
Work EnvironmentAssisting senior technicians, basic troubleshootingPerforming complex calibration, troubleshooting, and installation
Job ResponsibilitiesSupporting instrumentation tasks, basic repairsMaintaining, calibrating, and troubleshooting instrumentation systems

The main difference between a Junior Instrument Technician and an Instrument Technician lies in experience, certifications, and responsibilities. Junior Instrument Technicians are typically entry-level, assisting more experienced technicians, while Instrument Technicians have more experience and handle complex tasks independently.

What are some common challenges faced by a Junior Instrument Technician during the first year on the job?

As a Junior Instrument Technician, one of the main challenges in the first year is quickly adapting to various types of instrumentation and control systems, especially in fast-paced industrial environments. New technicians often need to learn to interpret technical diagrams, follow strict safety protocols, and troubleshoot under pressure—all while balancing hands-on tasks with ongoing training. Collaborating effectively with senior technicians and engineers is also essential, as it helps in gaining practical knowledge and building confidence. Overcoming these challenges early on leads to steady professional growth and opens up opportunities for advancement within maintenance or engineering teams.

What are Junior Instrument Technicians?

Junior Instrument Technicians are entry-level professionals who assist in the installation, maintenance, calibration, and repair of instrumentation and control systems used in various industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation. They work under the supervision of senior technicians or engineers to ensure that all instruments and equipment operate correctly and safely. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting faults, performing routine preventive maintenance, and documenting their work. This role is ideal for those starting their careers in industrial automation or instrumentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Junior Instrument Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Junior Instrument Technician, you generally need a background in instrumentation or electrical engineering, often supported by a relevant diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with calibration tools, PLCs, and maintenance management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate instrument maintenance, reliable system performance, and safe operations in industrial environments.
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Junior Instrument Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Junior Instrument Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,068 per year, or $27 per hour.
Maintenance I (SPLA)

Maintenance I (SPLA)

Calumet Specialty Products Partners, LLC

Shreveport, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
The Level 1 Instrumentation Technician (Mastery Level) is a highly skilled professional responsible for the installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of complex instrumentation and control systems across refinery operations. This role serves as a technical authority, ensuring the reliability and accuracy of critical process measurements and control systems, while providing leadership and mentorship to other technicians and contractors.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Independently troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair complex instrumentation and control systems, including:
    • Pressure, temperature, flow, and level transmitters
    • Control valves and positioners
    • Analyzers (process and environmental)
    • Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and PLC field interfaces
  • Perform precision calibration and configuration of field instruments
  • Lead and execute instrumentation work during turnarounds, outages, and critical repairs
  • Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior technicians and apprentices
  • Interpret and utilize:
    • Loop diagrams
    • P&IDs
    • Instrument datasheets and specifications
  • Ensure compliance with all safety and operational procedures, including:
    • Lockout/Tagout (LOTO)
    • Process safety management (PSM) requirements
    • Hazardous area classifications (Class I, Div 1 & 2)
  • Diagnose and resolve control loop and process control issues
  • Support advanced control strategies and optimization efforts
  • Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on instrumentation systems
  • Participate in root cause failure analysis (RCFA) and incident investigations
  • Oversee and verify quality of contractor instrumentation work

Minimum Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Completion of an Instrumentation/Controls apprenticeship, technical program, or equivalent experience
  • Significant experience in industrial or refinery instrumentation

Required Skills & Competencies:
  • Advanced knowledge of:
    • Process instrumentation and measurement principles
    • Control systems (DCS/PLC) and loop tuning fundamentals
    • Signal types (4-20 mA, HART, Foundation Fieldbus, etc.)
    • Control valves, actuators, and positioners
    • Electrical fundamentals related to instrumentation
  • Demonstrated ability to:
    • Troubleshoot complex control and instrumentation issues independently
    • Interpret process conditions and relate them to instrumentation performance
    • Lead jobs and coordinate with operations, maintenance, and engineering
  • Strong understanding of:
    • Hazardous area requirements
    • Industry standards and best practices
  • Effective leadership, communication, and mentoring skills

Physical & Work Environment:
  • Ability to work in refinery conditions including:
    • Elevated structures and confined spaces
    • Exposure to extreme temperatures and industrial hazards
  • Ability to wear required PPE, including FR clothing and respiratory protection as needed

Preferred Qualifications:
  • NCCER Instrumentation certification or equivalent
  • Experience with specific DCS/PLC platforms (e.g., Honeywell, Emerson, Yokogawa, Allen-Bradley)
  • Working knowledge of analyzer systems and advanced process control (APC)
  • Experience with CMMS systems (e.g., SAP)

Role Expectations (Mastery Level):
  • Works independently with minimal supervision
  • Recognized as a subject matter expert in instrumentation and control systems
  • Leads troubleshooting of critical process issues impacting production and safety
  • Coaches and develops less experienced technicians
  • Drives reliability improvements and instrumentation best practices
  • Ensures precision, accuracy, and compliance in all work performed

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