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Senior Instrument Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Audubon Companies

Instrument Designer, Senior

Houston, TX · On-site

$86.20K - $92.10K/yr

The Instrument Designer, Sr will Perform assignments associated with designing instrument equipment, components, structures or systems. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES : * Prepare complete design packages ...

Audubon Companies

Instrument Designer, Senior

Houston, TX · On-site

$86.20K - $92.10K/yr

The Instrument Designer, Sr will Perform assignments associated with designing instrument equipment, components, structures or systems. PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES : * Prepare complete design packages ...

Pbf Energy

Sr Instrument Engineer

Oregon, OH · On-site

Sr Instrument Engineer PBF Energy Inc. (NYSE:PBF) is one of the largest independent refiners in ... When applicable, develop application designs and assist with technician training Job Qualifications:

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$131K

How much do senior instrument designer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior instrument designer in the United States is $105,882.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Senior Instrument Designer job?

A Senior Instrument Designer is responsible for designing and developing instrumentation and control systems for industrial projects. They create detailed drawings, specifications, and layouts for equipment such as sensors, valves, and control panels. Their role involves collaborating with engineers, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and overseeing the installation process. They typically use specialized design software like AutoCAD or SmartPlant to produce accurate schematics. Additionally, they may provide technical guidance to junior designers and coordinate with other disciplines to ensure seamless project execution.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Senior Instrument Designer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Instrument Designer, you need a strong background in instrumentation design, piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), and knowledge of industry codes, supported by a relevant engineering degree or diploma. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SPI (SmartPlant Instrumentation), and familiarity with ISA standards are typically required, and certifications in these areas can be advantageous. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate within multidisciplinary engineering teams are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure the accurate development and integration of complex instrument systems, helping projects meet safety, quality, and timeline expectations.

What does a typical workday look like for a Senior Instrument Designer?

A typical day for a Senior Instrument Designer involves creating and reviewing detailed instrument drawings, developing and updating P&IDs, and coordinating with engineers and project managers to ensure design consistency and compliance with project specifications. You may spend time attending meetings to resolve design challenges, mentoring junior designers, and working with procurement teams to specify instrument components. Additionally, regular site visits or virtual walk-downs may be required to verify instrument locations and support construction or commissioning activities. This role offers a dynamic mix of technical design, collaboration, and problem-solving within a multidisciplinary engineering environment.
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Senior Instrument Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Instrument Designer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $105,882 per year, or $50.9 per hour.
Instrument Designer, Senior

Instrument Designer, Senior

Audubon Companies

Houston, TX • On-site

$86.20K - $92.10K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Audubon is currently seeking a Instrument Designer, Sr to join our team in our South Houston, TX Office. The Instrument Designer, Sr will Perform assignments associated with designing instrument equipment, components, structures or systems.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Prepare complete design packages which may include, but not be limited to, preliminary, conceptual, and construction deliverables as well as engineering calculations.
  • Prepare detailed drawings of parts and assemblies from layouts, designs and working drawings including necessary projections, sectional views and standard specifications.
  • Interpret verbal or written direction to initiate a preliminary design.
  • Perform sizing and electrical load calculations such as cable sizing, conduit sizing, voltage drop, and cable tray using charts and tables, as required to complete work assignments.
  • Develop or assist in the development of control circuits for instrument components, logic controllers, and relays.
  • Review and optimize the application and function of instruments.
  • Check detailed sketches and drawings for project applicability and optimal construction.
  • Check and verify accuracy of drawings prepared by others.
  • Prepare parts lists, procurement lists, bills of material (BOM) and specifications when drawings are complete.
  • Revise lists, drawings and BOM consistent with engineering changes.
  • Implement revisions and change control per company standards at the direction of senior level designers and engineers.
  • Assemble information and reference drawings from a variety of sources.
  • Continually look for product improvements and cost reductions.
  • Confirm specification and code compliance, equipment compatibility, and optimal cost savings.
  • Assist with performing field surveys, documenting existing conditions, and/or recommending various design solutions.
  • Ensure accuracy of completed drawings before final release and verify drawings meet company and industry standards.
  • Check field red-lined drawings and generate accurate as-built drawings as needed.
  • Review and assist in preparation of Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals.
  • Assist with proposal compilation utilizing computer aided design equipment and/or graphic tools to prepare high-level layouts and sketches.
  • Utilize 2D or 3D computer aided design software to create layouts of instrument systems, devices and components, and create fabrication and assembly drawings.
  • Create technical specifications to facilitate the procurement, fabrication, and installation of components.
  • Create documentation required to process Engineering Change Orders (ECO).
  • Utilize engineering sketches, specifications and supporting documents in the designing, detailing, documenting, and verifying of instrument parts, subassemblies, assemblies or system configurations.
  • Identify dimensions, angles, curvatures, tolerances and materials necessary for optimal construction.
  • Analyze the effect of proposed changes for proper fit and/or interference problems and recommend possible solutions or alternate construction options.
  • Produce drawings and deliverables utilizing company standards within project-approved schedule and budget.
  • Complete man-hour estimates for discipline specific scope of work.
  • Maintain proper file management in accordance with company and industry standards.
  • Interact and communicate effectively with clients, subcontractors, vendors and other consultants.
  • Perform field data gathering when required to complete project deliverables within approved project scope and schedule.
  • Track and maintain a continued awareness of overall schedule and budget for assigned projects.
  • Develop detailed design schedules in coordination with the scheduler/planner, engineering, and project management personnel.
  • Confirm that discipline-specific drawing quality is correct, consistent and legible.
  • Comply with all company and client health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards as well as federal and local HSSE regulations.
  • Actively participate in company and client hazard identification and observation programs, and immediately report any unsafe acts, conditions or incidents to your supervisor.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Associate's Degree from a Technical Institution preferred.
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience preferred.
  • AutoCAD software experience required.
  • PDMS software experience preferred.
  • Microsoft Office software experience preferred.
  • SPI (Intools) software experience preferred.
  • Field experience required.
  • Experience in offshore oil & gas, onshore gas processing, hydrocarbon storage and transportation, chemical manufacturing or refining industry required.
  • Small/Medium project lead experience required.
  • Large project lead experience preferred.
  • Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work related problems.
  • Ability to comprehend instructions and request clarification as necessary.
  • Ability to work in a team oriented environment.
  • Ability to think in such a way as to produce a new concept or idea.
  • Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
  • Ability to accept responsibility and account for his/her actions.
  • Ability to read and understand drawing markups to determine drafting requirements.
  • Ability to utilize conventional drafting tools and CAD software to execute drafting requirements.
  • Ability to read and understand engineering drawings.

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