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Senior Instrumentation Engineer Jobs in California

Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Technology, and Validation teams to optimize ... Train and mentor technicians on instrumentation systems, troubleshooting techniques, operational ...

Sr. Control Systems Engineer

Caspar, CA · On-site

$184K - $191K/yr

JOB SUMMARY This is a senior level control systems and instrumentation engineer position. The position requires strong technical ability to both perform engineering tasks and lead others, ability to ...

Bechtel is seeking a Senior Control Systems and Instrumentation (CS&I) Engineering Group Supervisor for the Mining & Metals team, based in Brisbane, Australia. This role will be responsible for ...

Showing results 41-60

Senior Instrumentation Engineer information

See California salary details

$78K

$115.3K

$162.8K

How much do senior instrumentation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior instrumentation engineer in California is $115,309.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $135,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior instrumentation engineer?

Senior Instrumentation Engineers are experienced professionals responsible for designing, developing, installing, managing, and maintaining equipment used to monitor and control engineering systems, machinery, and processes. They play a key role in ensuring that instruments and control systems operate efficiently, reliably, and safely. Their work spans various industries such as oil and gas, manufacturing, chemical processing, and energy production. Senior Instrumentation Engineers often lead teams, oversee project implementation, and troubleshoot complex issues related to instrumentation and automation systems.

How does a senior instrumentation engineer typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines on large-scale projects?

A Senior Instrumentation Engineer often works closely with process, electrical, and mechanical engineers to ensure that instrumentation systems align with overall plant design and operational requirements. Collaboration involves participating in multidisciplinary meetings, reviewing P&IDs, coordinating interface points, and integrating control systems. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as instrumentation decisions can impact safety, efficiency, and maintenance across the project. This collaborative environment supports seamless project execution and fosters professional growth through knowledge sharing.

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

To thrive as a Senior Instrumentation Engineer, you need a solid background in instrumentation engineering, process control, and project management, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant field experience. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as PLC/DCS systems, AutoCAD, and certifications like ISA CAP or PE are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you lead teams and collaborate across disciplines. These competencies are essential for ensuring reliable system design, efficient project execution, and adherence to safety and industry standards.

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

AspectSenior Instrumentation EngineerInstrumentation Technician
QualificationsBachelor's degree in Engineering, certifications in instrumentationTechnical diploma or associate degree, on-the-job training
Work EnvironmentDesign, project management, troubleshooting in industrial plantsInstallation, maintenance, calibration in manufacturing or processing facilities
ResponsibilitiesDesigning systems, overseeing projects, troubleshooting complex issuesPerforming routine maintenance, calibrations, and repairs

While both roles involve instrumentation, Senior Instrumentation Engineers focus on design, planning, and complex troubleshooting, whereas Instrumentation Technicians handle hands-on maintenance and calibration tasks. The senior engineer typically requires higher education and oversees projects, while technicians support daily operations through technical skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Instrumentation Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Instrumentation Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $115,309 per year, or $55.4 per hour.

Senior Instrumentation Technician

Lonza

Vacaville, CA • On-site

$61K - $102K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Lonza rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Location: Vacaville, CA
This is a fully site-based role. Working together in person supports close, real-time collaboration and the technical precision needed to manufacture medicines to the highest quality and safety standards.
The primary responsibility of Instrument Services is to maximize equipment availability for processing by safely maintaining equipment and instrumentation through Calibration, Preventive and Corrective Maintenance.
In support of these activities, Instrument Services provides personnel 24/hours/day, 7 days per week for calibration, maintenance, discrepancy response, contractor oversight, vendor resource management, project support and training.
All Instrument Services Technicians are trained to perform calibration and maintenance in the primary manufacturing support areas and Materials Management, Quality Control Labs, and Utility Operations
Work Schedule: Day Shift: 6:00a - 6:30p OR Night Shift 6:00p - 6:30a
What you will get
The full-time base annual salary for this position is expected to range between $61,500 to $102,500. In addition, below you will find a comprehensive summary of the benefits package we offer:
  • Performance-related bonus
  • Medical, dental and vision insurance
  • 401(k) matching plan
  • Life insurance, as well as short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Employee assistance programs
  • Paid Time Off

What you will do
  • Install, troubleshoot, calibrate, maintain, and modify process control instruments, analyzers, laboratory equipment, and utility systems to ensure reliable plant operations.
  • Program, configure, and support microprocessor-based control systems, including PLCs, DCS, and smart instrumentation devices, while maintaining accurate technical documentation.
  • Read, interpret, and apply Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), electrical schematics, and technical drawings for maintenance, upgrades, and system improvements.
  • Ensure compliance with cGMP, SOPs, safety regulations, and documentation standards, delivering Right-First-Time execution and timely completion of work orders.
  • Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, Technology, and Validation teams to optimize instrument performance, resolve process issues, and support startup activities.
  • Collect, organize, and analyze technical data from equipment manufacturers and engineering teams; assist with spare parts identification, procurement, and inventory management.
  • Train and mentor technicians on instrumentation systems, troubleshooting techniques, operational procedures, and best practices while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.

What we are looking for
  • High School Diploma or GED Required
  • Strong understanding of industrial process maintenance and systems.
  • Experience working in a GMP regulated environment is preferred.
  • Uses ability as a skilled specialist in accordance with company policies and procedures to complete complex assignments within defined parameters.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. with reasonable accommodations.
  • Experienced in Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and calibration management programs; SAP experience preferred.
  • Valid driver's license.

About Lonza
At Lonza, our people are our greatest strength. With 30+ sites across five continents, our globally connected teams work together every day to manufacture the medicines of tomorrow. Our core values of Collaboration, Accountability, Excellence, Passion and Integrity reflect who we are and how we work together. Everyone's ideas, big or small, have the potential to improve millions of lives, and that's the kind of work we want you to be part of.
Innovation thrives when people from all backgrounds bring their unique perspectives to the table. At Lonza, we offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Ready to shape the future of life sciences? Apply now.

What Lonza employees say

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About Lonza

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Biotechnology research and development and pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bern, KS, US