Instrumentation Engineer - Petrochemical

Key Responsibilities

• Design, specify, and select instrumentation and control hardware (P&ID development/support, field devices, control valves, actuators, transmitters, receivers, PLC, DCS, ESD, SIS) for petrochemical processes.
• Develop and maintain process control philosophies, instrumentation standards, tagging conventions, datasheets, and instrument index (I/I+T) standards in alignment with project and site requirements.
• Create and review instrument specifications, datasheets, installation drawings, loop diagrams (P&IDs), cable schedules, instrument lists, and calibration procedures.
• Perform instrument sizing and control valve calculations, including flow, pressure, temperature, and process performance considerations.
• Participate in hazard and operability studies (HAZOP/HAZID) and ensure instrumentation integrity for safety-critical systems (SIS, ESG/EFS, F&G).
• Lead instrument design deliverables for new plants, debottlenecks, debottlenecking studies, and revamps; support front-end loading (FEL) and detail design phases.
• Develop and execute FAT/SAT, commissioning test plans, and startup assistance for instrumentation systems.
• Configure and adjust PLC/DCS systems, create control logic, and implement instrumentation calibration and maintenance strategies.
• Support instrument loop checking, commissioning, and FAT/SAT, including instrument loop check sheets and commissioning handover packages.
• Establish and monitor maintenance plans for instrumentation assets (calibration schedules, preventive maintenance, spares management, retrofit planning).
• Collaborate with process engineers, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, safety engineers, and operations to optimize process performance and reliability.
• Review and approve engineering deliverables and MOC requests impacting instrumentation and provide input for risk assessments and change control.
• Participate in project scheduling, cost estimation, and procurement activities for instrumentation equipment and services.
• Maintain as-built documentation, vendor data, technical manuals, and CMMS entries; ensure accurate instrument tagging and data integrity.
• Support incident investigations (RCIs) related to instrumentation and provide root-cause analysis and corrective actions.

  Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, or a related Engineering discipline.
  • Advanced coursework or certifications in instrumentation, control systems, or process safety are a plus.
  • Experience: 7+ years of experience in instrumentation and control within the petrochemical, oil & gas, or refining industries.
  • Experience with capital projects, plant commissioning, or operations is required.
  • Active TWIC Card is required.
  • Knowledge: Strong understanding of process control concepts, instrument types (transmitters, gauges, switches, controllers), and control strategies (SIS, ESC, DCS/PLC, PI systems).
  • Familiarity with P&IDs, loop diagrams, instrument index, BOMs, and calibration procedures.
  • Baseline knowledge of electrical systems and safety instrumented systems (SIS) lifecycle.
  • Awareness of hazard analysis methods (HAZOP/HAZID) and risk-based approach to instrumentation design.
  • Proficiency with standards and codes: IEC 61511/61508, ISA standards, API standards relevant to instrumentation and process safety, NFPA, IECEx/ATEX (where applicable).

  Skills

  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities; attention to detail.
  • Proficient in using engineering software: AutoCAD for drawings, PFD/P&ID software, instrument data sheets, valve sizing tools, and control system software (e.g., Delta V, ABB PLCs).
  • Data management and document control proficiency; ability to manage datasheets, calibration records, and commissioning documentation.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication; ability to prepare technical reports, specs, and commissioning procedures.
  • Project management and coordination skills; capability to work cross-functionally in a multidisciplinary team.

  Personal Attributes

  • Safety-focused mindset with commitment to process safety and risk management.
  • Self-motivated, organized, and capable of handling multiple tasks and priorities.
  • Willingness to travel to project sites and perform on-site installation, testing, and commissioning as required.