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What is an instrument and controls technician and how to become one
The instrument and controls technician maintains, installs, and troubleshoots instrumentation, control circuits, and equipment. They are responsible for performing a variety of technical duties relating to the electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, and control functions of systems. You will also serve as a liaison to manufacturers, contractors, and other internal and external parties concerning utility equipment, instruments, and related systems. In addition, you will check job sites for potential hazards, understand and adhere to all applicable safety rules, regulations, practices, or procedures. Lastly, you will organize work assignments and set priorities.
You must know concepts, materials, and terminology related to utility systems. You must be able to operate, maintain, and repair utility systems equipment particularly electrical and mechanical equipment. Also, good knowledge of safe work methods and safety regulations of the work is required. The educational requirement for the post is at least a high school diploma and years of working experience. You will earn an average of $62,920 a year.
Avg. Salary $64,516
Avg. Salary $59,228
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.15%
Asian 8.05%
Black or African American 6.26%
Hispanic or Latino 10.43%
Unknown 4.32%
White 70.79%
Genderfemale 5.25%
male 94.75%
Age - 52American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 52Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work life balance is fair
6.4 - fair
Instrument and controls technician career paths
Key steps to become an instrument and controls technician
Explore instrument and controls technician education requirements
Start to develop specific instrument and controls technician skills
Skills Percentages Control Systems 11.97% Electrical Equipment 6.66% Process Control 4.88% Preventative Maintenance 4.42% Test Equipment 4.36% Complete relevant instrument and controls technician training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 1-3 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New instrument and controls technicians learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as an instrument and controls technician based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real instrument and controls technician resumes.Gain additional instrument and controls technician certifications
More About CertificationsInstrument and controls technician certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific instrument and controls technician certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for instrument and controls technicians include Instrumentation Certification and Industrial Instrumentation - Level I.
Research instrument and controls technician duties and responsibilities
- Supervise and manage several environmental ECAS annual, monthly and weekly reports in cooperation with regional CEMS manager for federal compliance.
- Project consist of two Siemens 501F gas turbines, one Siemens steam turbine, and a WDPF DCS.
- Install and programme VFD's and Softstarts.
- Build new operator panels for CNC controllers.
Prepare your instrument and controls technician resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your instrument and controls technician resume.
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Apply for instrument and controls technician jobs
Now it's time to start searching for an instrument and controls technician job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
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Average instrument and controls technician salary
The average instrument and controls technician salary in the United States is $64,516 per year or $31 per hour. Instrument and controls technician salaries range between $48,000 and $86,000 per year.
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Updated January 8, 2025
