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Refinery Instrumentation Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

JOB SUMMARY The E&I Reliability Engineer is responsible for providing technical guidance on Electrical and Instrumentation equipment within the refinery that maintains and improves the safety ...

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Refinery Instrumentation information

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$13

$26

$71

How much do refinery instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for refinery instrumentation in Texas is $26.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.28 and $27.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is instrumentation in a refinery?

In a refinery, instrumentation refers to the systems and devices used to measure, control, and monitor process variables such as pressure, temperature, flow, and level. Refinery instrumentation technicians install, maintain, and troubleshoot these instruments to ensure safe and efficient operation of the plant. Knowledge of control systems, calibration, and safety standards is essential for this role.

Which oil refinery pays the most?

Refinery instrumentation roles typically pay higher salaries at large, integrated oil companies such as ExxonMobil, Shell, and Chevron, especially for experienced technicians with specialized skills and certifications. Salaries can vary based on location, experience, and shift differentials, with some of the highest wages found in regions with high-cost living or remote sites requiring additional compensation.

What are the common daily responsibilities for someone in Refinery Instrumentation?

In a Refinery Instrumentation role, your daily responsibilities typically include installing, calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting various process instrumentation and control systems to ensure smooth plant operations. You will regularly perform preventive maintenance, address equipment failures, and work closely with operations and engineering teams to resolve issues quickly. Documentation of maintenance activities, adherence to safety procedures, and ongoing system upgrades are also part of the role. This position often involves a blend of fieldwork and technical analysis, making it ideal for those who enjoy hands-on problem-solving and supporting critical refinery functions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Refinery Instrumentation position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Refinery Instrumentation, you need a solid background in electronics, instrumentation, process control, and troubleshooting, often supported by a diploma or degree in instrumentation engineering or a related technical field. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), HART communicators, and recognized certifications like ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are vital for diagnosing issues and liaising with cross-functional teams. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of refinery processes, minimizing downtime and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

How much do instrument techs get paid?

In Louisiana, refinery instrumentation technicians typically earn an average annual salary between $60,000 and $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and the specific employer. Skilled techs with certifications such as ISA or API may earn higher wages, especially if working overtime or on rotating shifts.

What is a Refinery Instrumentation job?

A Refinery Instrumentation job involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting instruments and control systems that monitor and regulate refinery processes. This includes sensors, transmitters, controllers, and automation systems that ensure operational efficiency and safety. Instrumentation technicians work with pressure, temperature, flow, and level measurement devices to optimize refinery performance. They also perform routine calibrations, inspections, and repairs to prevent equipment failures. Strong knowledge of electrical systems, control loops, and industry standards is essential for this role.

Is instrumentation in high demand?

Refinery instrumentation professionals are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for maintenance, calibration, and installation of control systems in the oil and gas industry. Skills in PLCs, SCADA systems, and certifications like ISA are valuable for employment stability. The industry often requires technicians to work in hazardous environments, emphasizing safety training and technical expertise.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Refinery Instrumentation jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Refinery Instrumentation job openings:
Infographic showing various Refinery Instrumentation job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,795 per year, or $26.8 per hour.
Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) Supervisor

Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) Supervisor

Crest Industries

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Come join our team at Optimal!

We know a few things about competing with giants and exceeding expectations.
After years of working in the field, our founders decided to break from tradition and build the company they wanted to work for. They believed in starting a company rooted in trust, its team, and the idea that everyone matters and has a part in getting the job done right.

Quickly building a reputation from the ground up and growing the company along with our list of clients, Optimal is now influencing the industry and the people we serve. We live by the values that make us who we are.
And that is how we deliver the impossible for our clients and team members every day.

 The Instrumentation and Electrical (I&E) supervisor is responsible for supervising and coordinating the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of instrumentation and electrical systems. This role requires strong leadership skills to effectively lead, motivate, and develop I&E technicians while ensuring safe, reliable, and compliant operation of plant equipment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Supervise daily activities of I&E technicians, including work assignments, scheduling, and job prioritization.
Install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation and electrical equipment, including motors, sensors, PLCs, VFDs, and control panels.
Perform routine calibration and testing of instruments such as flow meters, pressure sensors, temperature transmitters, and level devices.
Read and interpret electrical schematics, P&IDs, and technical manuals to diagnose system faults.
Ensure compliance with plant safety procedures, electrical codes, and regulatory standards during all work activities.
Use test equipment (e.g., multimeters, loop calibrators, meggers) to analyze and troubleshoot faults.
Support the commissioning and start-up of new instrumentation and electrical systems.
Document work performed, maintain maintenance logs, and update asset management systems.
Coordinate with operations and engineering teams to plan and execute work orders and projects safely and efficiently.
Identify opportunities for process or equipment improvements and communicate recommendations to leadership.
Requirements:
High school diploma or GED required, technical certificate or associate degree in Instrumentation, Electrical Technology, or related field preferred.
SAP Background.
Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in industrial electrical or instrumentation maintenance (chemical, petrochemical, refining, or manufacturing environments preferred).
Working knowledge of industrial control systems, wiring practices, and troubleshooting methods.
Must possess a valid driver's license or state-issued ID.
Ability to read and interpret electrical diagrams, technical documents, and safety procedures.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be able to work in physically demanding environments, including climbing, lifting, and working in hot, cold, or confined spaces.
TWIC Card.
Ability to pass a drug screen, background check, and physical examination.
Stop relying on contractors who over promise, under deliver, and do not care about your success. Instead, experience the Optimal difference. Build your team with us and know you have experienced craftsmen who have your back and can deliver.

Optimal Field Services is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information.

Optimal Field Services is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request information regarding reasonable accommodation, contact your Human Resource Business Partner.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Part of the CREST INDUSTRIES family of companies.