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Lead Instrumentation Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Overview We are seeking highly skilled and qualified Lead Instrumentation and Electrical Technician to serve as a cornerstone of maintenance for our clinical and commercial production efforts at our ...

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Lead Instrumentation Technician information

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How much do lead instrumentation technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 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 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.

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.

Is a lead instrumentation technician in high demand?

Lead instrumentation technicians are in high demand due to the need for skilled professionals to install, maintain, and troubleshoot complex control systems in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, and power generation. Strong technical skills, certifications, and experience with automation tools increase employability in this field.

Where do lead instrumentation technicians make the most money?

Lead instrumentation technicians tend to earn the highest salaries in regions with a strong industrial or energy sector, such as oil and gas, chemical plants, or power generation facilities. Locations with high demand for skilled technicians and a higher cost of living often offer increased compensation, especially for those with specialized certifications and extensive experience.
More about Lead Instrumentation Technician jobs
Infographic showing various Lead Instrumentation Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,743 per year, or $30.2 per hour.

Journey Level Electrical and Instrumentation Technician (P&C)

Norpac Paper

Longview, WA • On-site

$48.98 - $57.99/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Key responsibilities

  • Perform maintenance and troubleshooting on electrical and instrumentation systems, including control valves, field instrumentation, and DCS controls.

  • Follow safety protocols and procedures, including lockout/tagout and electrical safety standards, during maintenance activities.

  • Maintain organized work areas and tools while working in a hot, humid, and noisy environment.


Job description

ABOUT NORPAC:
From its world-class manufacturing facility in Longview, WA., the NORPAC mill produces high-quality, packaging, copy paper, and printing paper for customers across the United States and around the world. Now part of International Paper, the NORPAC mill benefits from expanded resources and a strengthened commitment to safety, customer focus, a great workplace, and profitable growth.
NORPAC is a team-based work environment where individuals integrate safety, teamwork, innovation, and citizenship as core values in pursuit of world-class performance while leading a principle-based, process-disciplined organization.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
NORPAC is looking to hire a qualified Electrician & Instrumentation Technician (Powers & Control) professional to join the maintenance team. This is a safety-sensitive position.
General Requirements Include:
  • Demonstrated ability to work safely and comply with safety procedures
  • Excellent team and communication skills
  • Ability to work without direct supervision
  • Strong interest in learning other crafts
  • Willingness to learn and grow within a tier-based system
  • Basic computer skills
  • Willingness to work in a hot, humid and noisy environment
  • Must be willing to learn the skills needed to strengthen role as a dual-craft Electrician & Instrumentation technician
  • Qualify in one mechanical trade
  • Commitment to continuous learning and active participation in the Electrician and Instrumentation program

Required: (Tier 1 - Entry)
  • Completion of an electrical or instrumentation apprenticeship or have graduated from a two-year program in Industrial Electricity/Electronics or Instrumentation (e.g. Perry Institute) and/or equivalent coursework and experience
  • Followed safety protocols, including lockout/tagout procedures and electrical safety standards
  • Experience with PLCs, motor controls, or instrumentation systems through coursework or training
  • Knowledge of electro pneumatics and hydraulics as well as understanding troubleshooting skills
  • Familiarity with hand tools, multimeters, and basic test equipment
  • Ability to maintain organized work areas and tools

Required: (Tier 2 - Experienced)
  • Four years electrical and/or instrumentation apprenticeship or have graduated from a two-year program in Industrial Electricity/Electronics or Instrumentation (e.g. Perry Institute) plus two or more years of combined experience as a Journey Level Electrician or Instrumentation Technician
  • Strong troubleshooting skills with knowledge of electro-pneumatics and hydraulics as well as effective troubleshooting skills
  • Electrical skills: working knowledge of AC/DC drives and motor maintenance, PLCs, NEC and applicable codes, switchgear/medium voltage equipment, and ability to read motor schematics and logic drawings
  • Instrumentation skills: experience with control valves, field instrumentation, P&IDs, loop sheets, and DCS controls

Preferred:
  • Multi/cross-craft experience is a plus, (Electrical/Instrumentation)
  • Knowledge of SAP functions
  • Previous leadership experience in maintenance in a manufacturing environment
  • Previous experience working in paper or pulp mill maintenance

Compensation:
NORPAC encourages professional development/tenure and rewards its employees through a tier-based system.
Tier/Level Hourly Rate
Electrical & Instrumentation Technician (P&C Tech) $47.30
Experienced - Journey Level Electrical & Instrumentation Technician (P&C Tech) $48.98
Senior Electrical & Instrumentation Technician $50.65
Specialist (Area Expert) $53.85
Lead Technician (Crew Leadership) $55.92
Expert (Mill Wide Leader) $57.99
Typical Progression: An experienced Journey Level Electrical & Instrumentation Technician generally starts at $48.98/hour and typically advances to $50.65/hour after 3-6 months, based on time, performance, and completion of in-house skills testing.
Benefits:
NORPAC offers a highly competitive benefit package to include medical/vision and dental benefits, a company sponsored 401k match and additional company contribution, basic life insurance, employee assistance program, paid time off, floaters upon hire and paid holidays.