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Senior Instrumentation Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops ... Provides multi-discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems ... Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts ...

Senior Thermal Engineer

Lexington, MA · On-site

$117K - $161K/yr

We are looking for a Senior Thermal Engineer to join our rapidly growing analysis team in Lexington ... Work closely with environmental test engineers to support the design, instrumentation selection ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Minimum 10 years of Mechanical Design Engineering experience in Laser, Optical and Medical Device ... based medical instrumentation and products, with more than 5 years in senior position of ...

Senior Software Engineer - Search

Boston, MA · On-site

$133K - $175K/yr

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer - Search Job Summary: As a Senior Software Engineer on our ... Deliver quality solutions with TDD, test automation, instrumentation, monitoring, secure/defensive ...

Hardware Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$175.30 - $280.60/hr

Senior Optical Systems Engineer Opportunity Overview The Senior Optical Systems Engineer will have responsibility for development of optical test instrumentation for emerging markets within ...

Senior Software Engineer - Search

Boston, MA · On-site +1

$133K - $175K/yr

Job Title: Senior Software Engineer - Search Job Summary: As a Senior Software Engineer on our ... Deliver quality solutions with TDD, test automation, instrumentation, monitoring, secure/defensive ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$108K - $143K/yr

Minimum 10 years of Mechanical Design Engineering experience in Laser, Optical and Medical Device ... based medical instrumentation and products, with more than 5 years in senior position of ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Instrumentation Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$86.3K

$127.6K

$180.2K

How much do senior instrumentation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior instrumentation engineer in Massachusetts is $127,602.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,700.00 and $149,600.00 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.

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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in Massachusetts? The most popular types of Instrumentation Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:
What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Senior Instrumentation Engineer jobs? Cities in Massachusetts with the most Senior Instrumentation Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Instrumentation Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,602 per year, or $61.3 per hour.

Senior Optical Engineer

Draper Labs

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with hardware and software design teams to determine the qualification and manufacturability of new technologies.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
* Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
* Develops, builds and tests systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
* Interacts with device, hardware and software design teams to develop optical systems; specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models.
* Develop and implement test procedures and/or evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
* Provides multi-discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products or systems.
* Testing of new and existing designs and documentation of changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
* Provides recommendations for cost reduction efforts.
* Applies quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose, develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
* Develops and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
* Drives solutions to complex problems with limited direction - contribute to requirements development, propose ways forward, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements
* Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines.
* Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
* Actively mentor less experienced engineers and provide thoughtful, constructive feedback.
* Performs other related duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
* Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design, high-performance, real-time embedded firmware development.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Excellent mathematical skills.
* Excellent mechanical skills.
* Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
* Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to prioritize tasks.
* Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.
Education
Requires a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. Masters or PhD degree preferred.
Experience
5-10 years experience Optical Engineering experience or related field required.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$82,300.00 - $205,750.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.