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Lead Instrumentation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead the Instrumentation Technician team, driving a culture of safety, teamwork, and communication. * Manage scheduling, approve work hours, and address any technical or performance issues. * Develop ...

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Lead Instrumentation Technician information

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$15

$30

$46

How much do lead instrumentation technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead instrumentation technician in the United States is $30.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $35.82 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Lead Instrumentation Technician do?

A Lead Instrumentation Technician is responsible for overseeing the installation, maintenance, calibration, and repair of instrumentation and control systems used in industrial settings. They lead a team of technicians, ensure that equipment operates safely and efficiently, and troubleshoot complex issues. Additionally, they may be involved in training staff, conducting inspections, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

What are some common challenges faced by a Lead Instrumentation Technician and how can they be addressed?

Lead Instrumentation Technicians often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex instrumentation systems, managing tight maintenance schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Addressing these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, effective time management, and continuous communication with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams. Staying current with the latest technologies and industry best practices also helps in proactively identifying and resolving issues, ultimately ensuring system reliability and process efficiency.

What is the difference between Lead Instrumentation Technician vs Instrumentation Technician?

AspectLead Instrumentation TechnicianInstrumentation Technician
CertificationsOften requires advanced certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Typically requires basic certifications or technical diplomas
Work EnvironmentSupervises and coordinates instrumentation work in industrial plants, refineries, or manufacturing facilitiesPerforms installation, calibration, and maintenance of instrumentation equipment
ResponsibilitiesLeads projects, mentors team members, ensures safety and complianceExecutes routine and preventive maintenance tasks

The Lead Instrumentation Technician generally has more leadership responsibilities, advanced certifications, and oversees instrumentation projects. Instrumentation Technicians focus on hands-on installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but the lead position involves supervision and project management.

Where do instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Instrumentation technicians tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong industrial or energy sector, such as areas with oil and gas, chemical plants, or manufacturing hubs. Salaries are also higher in locations with a high cost of living and demand for specialized skills, especially for those with certifications and experience working with complex control systems and instrumentation tools.

What is the career path for an Instrumentation Technician?

The career path for an Instrumentation Technician typically starts with entry-level positions, progressing to senior technician roles, lead technician, and supervisory or management positions. Advancement often requires gaining experience, additional certifications such as Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST), and developing skills in troubleshooting, calibration, and automation systems.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Instrumentation technicians, including Lead Instrumentation Technicians, are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation due to the need for skilled workers to install, maintain, and troubleshoot complex control systems. The role often requires knowledge of PLCs, sensors, and calibration, and job growth is expected to remain strong as automation and process control systems expand.

What is the highest paid technician?

Lead Instrumentation Technicians tend to be among the highest paid technicians, especially with advanced certifications and extensive experience. Salaries can exceed $80,000 annually, depending on industry, location, and specialization in control systems, calibration, and troubleshooting of instrumentation equipment.

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

To thrive as a Lead Instrumentation Technician, you need a solid background in electronics, instrumentation, and industrial process control, often supported by a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Familiarity with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), DCS (Distributed Control Systems), calibration tools, and safety regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help you effectively manage teams and coordinate with other departments. These skills are vital to ensure the accurate and safe operation of complex industrial systems and to minimize downtime.
More about Lead Instrumentation Technician jobs
Infographic showing various Lead Instrumentation Technician job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.
Instrumentation Technician (E&I Technician)

Instrumentation Technician (E&I Technician)

System One

Quincy, MA • On-site

$25 - $52/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Instrumentation Technician (E&I Technician) Location: Quincy MA Type: Direct Hire Compensation: $25.00 to $52.00 Hourly Work Model: Onsite Hours: 40.0 Overview:

Direct-hire, onsite Instrumentation Technician (E&I) role in Quincy, MA supporting refinery/industrial operations. Under the E&I Manager, you will install, maintain, calibrate, and repair process instrumentation and controls (valves, transmitters, RTDs/thermocouples, flow and pressure devices), execute preventive maintenance, and troubleshoot issues to keep 24/7 production running. The ideal candidate brings 3 to 5 years of instrument and controls experience, can read wiring diagrams and blueprints, and has hands-on exposure to Allen-Bradley and Honeywell systems, with a safety-first mindset in a physically demanding plant environment. Competitive hourly pay and comprehensive benefits offered.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist, direct or train workers to install, maintain, or repair process instrumentation, equipment, or fixtures under the direction of the E&I Manager
  • Ensure compliance with applicable electrical codes
  • Lead instrumentation projects around the plant and coordinate with Engineering, Maintenance, Refinery, and Boiler Room to support 24-7 operations
  • Troubleshoot complex process instrumentation issues with ability to adapt to changing priorities
  • Create and update logic & electrical diagrams, instrument spec sheets, calibration records, etc.
  • Perform preventive maintenance on instrumentation systems
  • Inspect and test components including control valves, RTDs, thermocouples, flow meters, switches, transmitters, etc.
  • Utilize blueprints, wiring diagrams, and manufacturers' installation manuals for project completion
  • Interface with vendors to order replacement parts and instruments
  • Use E-Maintenance software to manage work orders
  • Troubleshoot, repair, and perform PM on a variety of control valves and positioners
  • Modify logic diagrams and troubleshoot Honeywell TDC and Experion systems
  • Repair Allen-Bradley & Honeywell PLC systems including fault clearing and ladder logic updates
  • Obtain knowledge of refinery systems, BOHO, Steam Turbine Generator, wastewater systems, logistics, CHP, and burner operations
  • Support site activities and maintain equipment in various conditions, including in confined spaces and at heights up to 120 feet
  • Use PPE and work in weather-exposed environments, involving walking, lifting up to 50 lbs., and physical tasks as described

Requirements:

  • Previous instrument & controls experience, 3-5 years of related work experience
  • High School Graduate/GED
  • Ability to read Blueprints
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Excel, SAP, and CMMS (E-Maintenance)
  • Strong troubleshooting skills for control valves, logic systems, PLCs, and instrumentation equipment
  • Ability to interpret and modify logic diagrams and troubleshoot Honeywell TDC and Experion systems
  • Capable of working in physically demanding environments and in all weather conditions
  • Willingness to support shutdowns and perform routine preventative maintenance

#M1 Ref: #562-Joule Staffing - Edison