Instrumentation Engineer I

SUMMARY OF POSITION

The Instrumentation Engineer I will be responsible for working with the engineering team and support the design, development, documentation, and implementation of instrumentation and control systems for industrial projects. This is an entry-level engineering position designed for an individual who is technically curious, detail-oriented, eager to learn, and interested in building a career in industrial automation, instrumentation, and control systems.

The Instrumentation Engineer I will work closely with senior engineers, project managers, designers, technicians, and customers to support engineering deliverables from project design through implementation and commissioning.

OBJECTIVES OF THIS ROLE

• Assist with the design and development of instrumentation and control systems for industrial applications.
• Support the selection of instrumentation, sensors, transmitters, control devices, and related equipment.
• Assist with developing and maintaining:
  • Instrumentation drawings
  • I/O lists
  • Instrument indexes
  • ISA Sheets
  • Cable schedules
  • Panel layouts
  • Equipment and material specifications
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and project requirements for accuracy and completeness.
• Assist with control panel and instrumentation design in coordination with electrical and controls engineering teams.
• Participate in equipment testing, system checkout, startup, and commissioning activities as needed.
• Troubleshoot basic instrumentation and control-system issues with guidance from senior engineering personnel.
• Coordinate with Project Managers, Electrical Engineers, Automation Engineers, Designers, Production, and Field Service teams.
• Communicate with vendors regarding instrumentation specifications, technical information, and equipment documentation.
• Assist with engineering calculations, equipment selections, technical research, and project documentation.
• Maintain accurate project records and ensure engineering documentation reflects current project requirements.
• Follow applicable company procedures, project specifications, and industry standards.
• Travel to customer sites or project locations as required for field support, testing, startup, or commissioning.
• Perform other engineering duties as assigned.

EDUCATION, SKILLS AND/OR ABILITIES REQUIRED

Experience: 0–2 years of engineering experience, including internships, co-op experience, or relevant academic projects.

Degree: Bachelor’s degree in Instrumentation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Automation Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.

Abilities:

• Basic understanding of electrical, instrumentation, and control-system principles.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and engineering drawings.
• Basic understanding of sensors, transmitters, control devices, and industrial instrumentation.
• Familiarity with PLC and automation concepts.
• Strong computer skills and ability to learn engineering software and systems.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, technicians, project managers, vendors, and customers.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a project team.

Preferred

• Internship or project experience in industrial automation, instrumentation, electrical engineering, controls, or systems integration.
• Experience with AutoCAD Electrical or similar electrical design software.
• Familiarity with industrial communication protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Modbus, or similar.
• Exposure to NFPA 70/NEC, NFPA 79, ISA standards, or other applicable industrial standards.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting electrical, instrumentation, or control equipment.
• Experience working with industrial control panels or systems integration projects.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• General working environment - sitting for long periods, standing, walking, typing, carrying, pushing, bending. Work is primarily conducted indoors with varying environmental conditions such as fluorescent lighting and air conditioning. Primarily office-based with regular interaction with engineering, production, warehouse, and field personnel. Occasional visits to SOFFA manufacturing locations, client offices, and jobsites.
• Noise level is typically low to medium in office; it can be loud in the manufacturing area and on jobsites.