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Automation Direct Plc Programmer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Invio Automation

Principal Controls Engineer

Webster, NY · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... direct authority. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, sound engineering judgment, and ... Minimum of 5+ years of experience in industrial automation controls engineering, including PLC ...

Invio Automation

Principal Controls Engineer

Webster, NY · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... direct authority. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, sound engineering judgment, and ... Minimum of 5+ years of experience in industrial automation controls engineering, including PLC ...

Rhodes Wolfe

Senior Controls Engineer - PLC/HMI

Rochester, NY · On-site

$95K - $126K/yr

Available Senior Controls Engineer - PLC/HMI Description Our client in the industrial automation and process systems industry is looking for a Senior Controls Engineer to add to their team. In this ...

CBRE

Automation Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

Automation Engineer CBRE is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. Job Summary At ... Troubleshoot and modify software programs for material handling control systems, including PLC/PC ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Rochester, NY

$82K - $107K/yr

Senior Controls Engineer This Senior Controls Engineer role focuses on designing and programming ... automation. * Program and support PLC systems using platforms such as Allen-Bradley RSLogix and ...

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All JobsAutomation Direct Plc Programmer JobsAutomation Direct Plc Programmer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Automation Direct Plc Programmer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$40K

$79.6K

$110.5K

How much do automation direct plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation direct plc programmer in Rochester, NY is $79,589.00, 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 Automation Direct PLC programmer?

An Automation Direct PLC Programmer is a professional who specializes in programming, configuring, and troubleshooting Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) manufactured by AutomationDirect. These PLCs are used to automate machinery and industrial processes in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, energy, and material handling. The programmer uses software tools like DirectSOFT or Do-more Designer to create custom logic programs that control equipment based on specific operational requirements. Their work ensures systems run efficiently, safely, and reliably.

What are some common challenges faced by Automation Direct PLC programmers when integrating new equipment into existing systems?

Automation Direct PLC Programmers often encounter challenges when integrating new equipment, such as ensuring compatibility between different hardware and software versions, adapting to varying communication protocols, and minimizing system downtime during installation. Troubleshooting unexpected issues and thoroughly testing new code within live production environments require both technical expertise and careful planning. Close collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams is essential to ensure seamless integration and ongoing system reliability.

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

To thrive as an Automation Direct PLC Programmer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering, control systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, often supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with Automation Direct software platforms, ladder logic programming, and industrial communication protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot system issues. These skills ensure reliable automation solutions, minimize downtime, and optimize manufacturing processes in industrial environments.

What is the difference between Automation Direct Plc Programmer vs PLC Technician?

AspectAutomation Direct Plc ProgrammerPLC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications and knowledge of PLC softwareUsually holds technical diplomas or certifications in PLC maintenance
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involved in programming, testing, and software developmentFocuses on installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of PLC systems
Industry UsageUsed in automation, manufacturing, and control system designCommon in industrial maintenance and repair roles

Automation Direct Plc Programmers focus on developing and implementing PLC software, while PLC Technicians handle installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of PLC hardware. Both roles are essential in automation industries but differ in their primary responsibilities and skill sets.

Are Automation Direct Plc programmers in high demand?

Automation Direct Plc programmers are in steady demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing and industrial processes. Skills in ladder logic, PLC programming, and familiarity with specific hardware are highly valued, and employment opportunities are generally stable in industries that rely on automation technology.

What job categories do people searching Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Automation Direct Plc Programmer job openings:

Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Direct Plc Programmer job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,589 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Principal Controls Engineer

Invio Automation

Webster, NY • On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Invio Automation rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

399th of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

DESCRIPTION
The Principal Controls Engineer is a senior technical leader responsible for providing advanced controls engineering expertise across multiple automation projects at Invio Automation. This role serves as a subject matter expert for PLCs, HMI, motion control, robotics integration, safety systems, and industrial networking, and provides technical direction to ensure consistent, high-quality controls solutions across the organization.
The Principal Controls Engineer works closely with Engineering, Project Management, Manufacturing, and Field Service teams to support project execution from concept through commissioning. This role is responsible for developing and maintaining controls standards, solving complex technical challenges, and supporting the successful delivery of custom automation systems.
The position requires the ability to lead through influence, provide technical mentorship to controls engineers, and act as a key escalation point for complex system issues. Our goal is to exceed expectations and ensure our internal and external customers receive an exceptional experience at Invio Automation.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Provide advanced technical leadership and subject matter expertise for controls engineering across multiple projects
  • Develop, maintain, and standardize controls engineering practices, including PLC programming standards, HMI design, and system architecture
  • Support development of controls concepts during proposal, design, and estimating phases
  • Lead technical problem-solving efforts for complex controls, electrical, and system integration issues
  • Provide guidance on PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, vision systems, safety systems, and industrial networking
  • Review and support controls design, programming, and commissioning activities to ensure consistency and quality
  • Serve as escalation point for complex field or integration issues during installation, debug, and startup
  • Collaborate with Project Management and Engineering to ensure controls deliverables align with project scope, schedule, and budget
  • Support commissioning activities and customer acceptance testing as needed
  • Mentor and develop controls engineers and support technical training initiatives across the organization
  • Evaluate new technologies and provide recommendations for continuous improvement in controls systems and software tools
  • Support cross-functional coordination between Engineering, Manufacturing, and Field Service teams
  • Participate in root cause analysis and corrective action efforts for technical issues
  • Ensure adherence to company engineering standards, safety requirements, and best practices
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives related to controls design, programming efficiency, and system reliability
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be a highly experienced controls engineering professional with deep technical expertise and the ability to lead through influence rather than direct authority. This role requires strong problem-solving skills, sound engineering judgment, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, project-based automation environment.
The Principal Controls Engineer must be capable of independently resolving complex technical challenges while supporting and elevating the capabilities of the broader engineering team.
Other Skills and Abilities:
  • Expert-level knowledge of industrial automation systems including PLCs, HMIs, robotics, motion control, and safety systems
  • Strong ability to troubleshoot complex integrated control systems in manufacturing and field environments
  • Deep understanding of electrical schematics, control panel design, and system architecture
  • Ability to lead technical discussions and influence engineering direction across teams
  • Strong mentoring and coaching skills for developing engineering talent
  • Excellent problem-solving skills with ability to work under pressure
  • Strong communication skills with both technical and non-technical stakeholders
  • Ability to manage multiple technical priorities across concurrent projects
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols and networked control systems
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to technical detail
  • Ability to support commissioning and field troubleshooting activities as required
  • Willingness to travel to customer sites and Invio facilities as needed
EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field required.
Minimum of 5+ years of experience in industrial automation controls engineering, including PLC programming, system integration, and commissioning of complex automation systems.
Equivalent combination of education and advanced technical experience may be considered.
Compensation
Salary Range: $150,000 – $180,000 annually
The anticipated base salary range for this position is $150,000 to $180,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as skills, experience, education, etc.
Bonus Eligibility: This position is eligible for participation in the Company's Annual Incentive Plan (AIP), subject to plan terms.
INVIO AUTOMATION’S CORE VALUES
  • We take pride in the reliability of our team and the difficult problems we solve for customers.
  • We deliver real customer value that positively impacts the lives of those around us.
  • We are dependable. Relationships and trust matter.
  • Our ingenuity and desire to improve lives will complement our suite of solutions.
  • We strive to demonstrate that our attention to detail does not start or end with the solutions we engineer and deliver.
  • We believe exceptional service is better demonstrated than said.

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