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Senior Instrument Engineer Jobs in Elizabethton, TN

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Elec

Kingsport, TN · On-site

$79K - $134K/yr

Prepare, review, and approve instrument specification data sheets. * Develop equipment lists ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related degree and 4+ years of applicable ...

All JobsInstrument Engineer JobsSenior Instrument Engineer JobsSenior Instrument Engineer Jobs in Elizabethton, TN

Senior Instrument Engineer information

See Elizabethton, TN salary details

$83.6K

$123.7K

$174.7K

How much do senior instrument engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior instrument engineer in Elizabethton, TN is $123,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,500.00 and $145,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a senior instrument engineer do?

A Senior Instrument Engineer is responsible for designing, specifying, installing, and maintaining instrumentation and control systems used in industrial processes. They ensure that these systems function efficiently, safely, and reliably to monitor and control variables such as pressure, temperature, and flow. Senior Instrument Engineers often lead projects, troubleshoot complex issues, and provide technical guidance to junior engineers. They also collaborate with other engineering disciplines to optimize process performance and comply with industry standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior instrument engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Instrument Engineer, you typically need a degree in engineering (often electrical, instrumentation, or control engineering) and extensive experience with instrumentation design, installation, and maintenance. Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as PLCs, DCS, CAD software, and familiarity with relevant codes and certifications like ISA or IEC are essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help coordinate teams and interface with other engineering disciplines. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of complex industrial processes.

What are some common challenges faced by senior instrument engineers when working on multidisciplinary projects?

Senior Instrument Engineers often encounter challenges coordinating with other engineering disciplines, such as process, electrical, and mechanical teams, to ensure instrumentation specifications align with overall project requirements. Integrating new instrumentation technologies into existing systems while maintaining compliance with safety and industry standards can also be demanding. Effective communication, strong project management skills, and adaptability are essential to successfully navigate these complexities and ensure project deliverables are met on time and within budget.

What is the difference between Senior Instrument Engineer vs Instrument Technician?

AspectSenior Instrument EngineerInstrument Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in Engineering, certifications like CSE or ISATechnical diploma or associate degree, specialized training
Work EnvironmentDesign, project management, troubleshooting in industrial plantsInstallation, maintenance, calibration on-site
Industry UsageEngineering firms, oil & gas, manufacturingRefineries, power plants, process industries

While both roles involve instrumentation, the Senior Instrument Engineer focuses on design, planning, and troubleshooting at a higher level, often overseeing projects. The Instrument Technician handles hands-on installation, maintenance, and calibration tasks. Both roles are essential in industrial settings but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

Senior Instrument Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Instrument Engineer job openings in Elizabethton, TN as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,701 per year, or $59.5 per hour.

Senior Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer

BAE Systems

Kingsport, TN • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense

Job description

Job Description

We are seeking an Electrical and Instrumentation Engineer to support the design, construction, and commissioning of various multi‑million dollar modernization programs, as well as day‑to‑day project support at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant.

Key Responsibilities
  • Prepare, review, and approve instrument specification data sheets.
  • Develop equipment lists, instrument indexes, loop sheets, and I/O lists.
  • Ensure all drawings, specifications, reports, and analyses meet scope, schedule, cost, and quality requirements.
  • Ensure design documents adhere to applicable governing codes (NEC, NFPA, ISA, UFC, etc.).
  • Participate in reviews of Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrument Diagrams (P&IDs).
  • Contribute to Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (FMEA) and Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) to ensure the safety of equipment, personnel, the public, and the environment.
  • Collaborate with plant technical staff to discuss technical specifications and features.
  • Prepare sketches and perform calculations for detailed project segments.
  • Develop equipment specifications, Requests
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Hours and flexibility

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About BAE Systems

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At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

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