Control and instrumentation engineer

Control and instrumentation engineer job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Employers of control and instrumentation engineers include power generation companies, manufacturers and installers of instruments and control devices/systems and process companies. Self-employment via consultancy/contract work is possible for individuals with several years' experience.

Responsibilities typically include:

• preparing and agreeing project budgets, timescales and specifications with clients/managers;
• undertaking relevant research; producing and implementing designs;
• creating test procedures;
• testing, evaluating, modifying and calibrating products/instruments;
• writing reports and documentation;
• analysing and interpreting data;
• collaborating with a team of scientists and engineers;
• providing technical support.

An ability to work under pressure while keeping to tight deadlines is an advantage.

Vacancies attract strong competition, particularly opportunities on structured graduate training schemes. Jobs are advertised via the internet, by careers services and recruitment agencies, in newspapers and in relevant publications including TARGETjobs Engineering, The Engineer, Electronics Weekly, Electronics Times, Measurement and Control, Computer Weekly and New Scientist.

Qualifications and training required

To become a chartered engineer it is necessary to gain an accredited MEng degree, and to undertake vocational training for at least four years with an approved employer (the professional institutions can provide lists of organisations that offer suitable training schemes).

A degree in electrical, electronic or mechanical engineering, computing or applied physics is normally necessary (engineering subjects are often preferred). Relevant experience can be beneficial - some employers offer final year project work, sponsorship, vacation work and 'year out' placements which can provide valuable contacts and a useful insight into the profession.

Key skills for control and instrumentation engineers

Employers seek imaginative graduates with good qualifications and strong practical abilities who are business minded and capable of working well within a team.