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Assistant Plc Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Valero Energy

Sr Control Systems Engineer

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Support PLC systems including troubleshooting, logic validation, and communications * Work with ... Support communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, OPC, and ControlNet * Assist with ...

Senior plc

Senior Program Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

$123K - $124K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... This is a position that will assist in continuous improvement activities with the goal of achieving ...

Senior plc

Senior Program Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

$124K - $124K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... This is a position that will assist in continuous improvement activities with the goal of achieving ...

Senior plc

Program Manager Intern

Burbank, CA · On-site

$123K - $124K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... To assist the New Product Development (NPD) team in their daily work and to complete special ...

Senior plc

Manufacturing Planner

Burbank, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... Will assist with projects / planning of machining, forming, stamping, heat treating, and chemical ...

Senior plc

Manufacturing Planner

Burbank, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... Will assist with projects / planning of machining, forming, stamping, heat treating, and chemical ...

Senior plc

Program Manager Intern

Burbank, CA

$124K - $124K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... To assist the New Product Development (NPD) team in their daily work and to complete special ...

Senior plc

Program Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... This is a position that will assist in continuous improvement activities with the goal of achieving ...

Senior plc

Program Manager

Burbank, CA · On-site

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... This is a position that will assist in continuous improvement activities with the goal of achieving ...

Flex

Automation Software Technician

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $48.77/hr

... Programming & Motion Control: Design, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for gantry systems, automated material handling, and articulated robotic workcells. * Computer Vision Integration: Assist ...

Flex Ltd.

Automation Software Technician

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$35.47 - $48.77/hr

... Programming & Motion Control: Design, modify, and troubleshoot PLC programs for gantry systems, automated material handling, and articulated robotic workcells. * Computer Vision Integration: Assist ...

Senior plc

Tool & Die Maker Specialist

Burbank, CA · On-site

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... Interprets complicated blueprints and assist in planning sequence of operations using higher shop ...

Senior plc

Tool & Die Maker Specialist

Burbank, CA · On-site

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating ... Interprets complicated blueprints and assist in planning sequence of operations using higher shop ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsPlc Programmer JobsAssistant Plc Programmer JobsAssistant Plc Programmer Jobs in California

Assistant Plc Programmer information

See California salary details

$40K

$79.6K

$110.5K

How much do assistant plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for assistant plc programmer in California is $79,608.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $91,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an assistant PLC programmer?

Assistant PLC Programmers are professionals who support the design, development, testing, and maintenance of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programs used in industrial automation and control systems. They typically assist senior engineers or programmers in tasks such as writing code, troubleshooting PLCs, and implementing changes to improve automation processes. Their role often involves working with hardware and software, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring that control systems operate efficiently and safely.

What are some common challenges faced by assistant PLC programmers when working on industrial automation projects?

Assistant PLC Programmers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior, adapting to different PLC brands and programming languages, and ensuring clear communication with engineers and electricians on the project team. Additionally, balancing multiple assignments and learning to interpret complex electrical schematics can be demanding. Developing strong problem-solving skills and being proactive in seeking guidance from senior programmers can help overcome these challenges and contribute to a smoother workflow.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant PLC programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant PLC Programmer, you need foundational knowledge of electrical engineering, automation systems, and programming logic, often supported by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as Ladder Logic), HMI software, and platforms like Siemens or Allen-Bradley is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure accurate system programming, effective troubleshooting, and smooth project execution in industrial automation environments.

What is the difference between Assistant Plc Programmer vs PLC Technician?

AspectAssistant Plc ProgrammerPLC Technician
Primary RoleSupports PLC programming, debugging, and software developmentMaintains, repairs, and troubleshoots PLC hardware and systems
Required SkillsBasic programming knowledge, understanding of automation softwareElectrical skills, hardware troubleshooting, circuit knowledge
CertificationsOften includes certifications in PLC programming or automationElectrical or electronics certifications, technical diplomas
Work EnvironmentOffice or control room, programming labsIndustrial sites, manufacturing plants, maintenance areas

While both roles involve working with PLC systems, the Assistant Plc Programmer primarily focuses on supporting programming and software tasks, whereas the PLC Technician specializes in hardware maintenance and troubleshooting. Both roles require technical skills and certifications but differ in daily responsibilities and work environments.

Do assistant PLC programmers make good money?

Assistant PLC programmers typically earn a salary that is lower than fully qualified PLC programmers, but they can still make a competitive income depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start around $40,000 to $60,000 annually, with potential for increases as skills and certifications grow, especially with knowledge of ladder logic and industrial automation tools.

How much do assistant PLC programmers earn?

Assistant PLC programmers typically earn between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced assistants with certifications and knowledge of programming tools like ladder logic can earn higher salaries.

Is there a demand for assistant PLC programmers?

Assistant PLC programmers are in demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, processing, and industrial environments. Employers seek candidates with knowledge of PLC programming languages like ladder logic and experience with automation tools, making this a growing field for entry-level and supporting roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programmer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Assistant Plc Programmer jobs in California?

For Assistant Plc Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Assistant Plc Programmer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Assistant Plc Programmer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Plc Programmer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Assistant Plc Programmer job openings:

Assistant Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Plc Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 15% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,608 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Sr Control Systems Engineer

Valero Energy

Wilmington, CA • On-site

$134K - $184K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 9 hours ago

Valero rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 71 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 87 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Description
Valero is the best-in-class producer of essential fuels and products that are foundational to modern life. We invite you to join our ~10,000 employees to drive exceptional results for our company, the energy industry and our community.
As a Sr Control Systems Engineer you will provide support and maintain refinery/process control infrastructure including Honeywell Distributed Control Systems (DCS), virtualization environments, industrial networks, cybersecurity initiatives, and PLC systems. This role will support day-to-day operations, troubleshooting, system upgrades, cybersecurity compliance, and long-term reliability improvements for critical control systems infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge of industrial automation systems, virtualized server environments, OT networking, and cybersecurity best practices within manufacturing or refinery operations.
At Valero, we are committed to advancing the future of energy through innovation, ingenuity and unmatched execution. You can help achieve this goal if you can:
  • Provide engineering and technical support for Honeywell DCS systems including servers, operator stations, application nodes, and controllers
  • Troubleshoot DCS hardware, software, communication, and performance issues
  • Support system backups, patching, upgrades, and lifecycle management activities
  • Support alarm management, historian systems, and interface troubleshooting
  • Support and maintain virtualized environments using platforms such as VMware and Hyper-V
  • Support and troubleshoot OT/ICS network infrastructure including managed switches, firewalls, fiber networks, VLANs, and wireless infrastructure
  • Support industrial cybersecurity initiatives aligned with company standards and industry best practices
  • Support PLC systems including troubleshooting, logic validation, and communications
  • Work with systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Modicon, and other industrial PLC platforms
  • Support communication protocols including Ethernet/IP, Modbus, OPC, and ControlNet
  • Assist with startup, commissioning, and control system modifications
  • Support integration between DCS, PLC, SIS, historians, and business systems
  • Have experience supporting Honeywell DCS or similar control systems
  • Have knowledge of virtualization technologies and Windows server administration
  • Have understanding of industrial networking concepts and troubleshooting
  • Have familiarity with OT cybersecurity principles and practices
  • Have working knowledge of PLC systems and industrial communications
  • Read and interpret company policies, regulatory guidelines, and other work-related documentation.
  • Abide by confidentiality requirements when working with sensitive information, results, and communications.
  • Provide thorough, efficient, and effective customer service to individuals at all levels within the organization.
  • Communicate effectively through written and verbal methods.
  • Accomplish work within required timelines, including short, long, and emergency timeframes.
  • Cross-train in other department duties to ensure efficient coverage department responsibilities.
  • Work with others to accomplish challenging assignments.
  • Multi-task and prioritize multiple assignments to ensure completion of tasks within stated time requirements.
  • Have basic skill using Microsoft Office programs (i.e., Word and Excel).

This position is salaried exempt status, which means you are not eligible for overtime pay.
The salary range for this position is $134,400 to $184,800 and represents Valero's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of expected compensation at the time of this posting. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of job-related factors, including but not limited to, the individual's qualifications and experience.
Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
  • Able and willing to work on-site, in-person at the Valero Wilmington Refinery, required.
  • Bachelor's or higher level degree in Engineering required.
  • 5 years of process control/advanced process control field experience required.

Preferred Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or higher level degree in Electrical/Controls/Chemical Engineering preferred.
  • Process control/DCS/PLC engineering experience preferred.

Need more reasons to work for a company that is both professionally challenging and culturally rewarding? Take a look at some of our best-in-class benefits:
  • Competitive Pay and Annual Bonus Program
  • 100% match on 401(K) up to 7%, with immediate vesting
  • Company-sponsored Pension Plan
  • Comprehensive Healthcare and Wellness Program

Benefits described above are highlights only, subject to an employee's eligibility and work location.
Discover more about Wilmington and how we're making a difference there.
All successful candidates must be eligible to obtain a TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential). It is Valero's policy that employees must wear this card at all times while working at the refinery. Please review eligibility criteria at https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic.
Position level and salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Valero's employees and team-focused culture drive our success. We're invested in our dedicated workforce through a comprehensive, customizable benefits package, while supporting a caring culture that delivers a rewarding work environment built on teamwork, excellence and career growth. To explore the ways we build a stronger team, visit Valero.com/Careers.
Valero is an EEO Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to legally protected status, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local laws.
Please be advised, if you are viewing this position on a website that lists an estimated salary rate/range, it was not provided by Valero. Valero's market specific salary rate/range will be provided during the recruiting process and tends to be higher than what is estimated by such websites.
*LI-LP1

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