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C Programmer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary: The P&C Senior Test Engineer is responsible for the independent execution of testing, commissioning, and validation activities across transmission, distribution, and generation ...

Staff Piping Designer

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$50 - $65/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

C&I is a full-service engineering design firm providing engineering/design/project management and procurement services to various clients in oil & gas, food & beverage, and distilled spirits.

Staff Piping Designer

Catlettsburg, KY ยท On-site

$50 - $60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

C&I is a full-service engineering design firm providing engineering/design/project management and procurement services to various clients in oil & gas, food & beverage, and distilled spirits.

Batch Developer (UNIX/C/SQL)

Frankfort, KY ยท Remote

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Summary As a Batch Developer (UNIX/C/SQL) at Gainwell, you will be a part of an innovative healthcare technology company with a mission to serve the healthcare needs of our communities. You will use ...

VP Engineering and R&D - AI Startup

Louisville, KY ยท Remote

$172K - $221K/yr

Company Description C-PLan.IT is an early stage startup on a mission to enable mid-market ... Master or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Statistics, Operation ...

VP Engineering and R&D - AI Startup

Louisville, KY ยท On-site +1

$172K - $221K/yr

Company Description C-PLan.IT is an early stage startup on a mission to enable mid-market ... Master or Ph.D. in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Statistics, Operation ...

$150 - $195/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong C++ or Rust programming language skills. * Objectโ€‘oriented design skills. * Development experience with Embedded Linux at Application level. * Experience implementing software version ...

New

Transmission Lineman C

Lexington, KY ยท On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Lineman C you will be assisting in the installation, construction, maintenance, and repair of ... among Engineering News-Records Top 150 Specialty Contracting firms. Our success is based on our ...

$152 - $288/hr

Expertise in C programming languages, coupled with outstanding debugging skills.* Defensive security programming skills* We are seeking candidates with excellent communication abilities, both verbal ...

Azure Databricks Developer

Louisville, KY ยท On-site

$52.75 - $65.50/hr

C. is seeking a skilled developer specializing in Azure Databricks to join their dynamic team. The role involves developing and optimizing data pipelines, collaborating with cross-functional teams ...

$150 - $190/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Strong C programming and debugging skills in resource-constrained or hardware-adjacent environments. * Hands-on experience with Buildroot or Yocto, Linux kernel configuration, device trees, and cross ...

New

Showing results 21-40

C Programmer information

See Kentucky salary details

$10

$34

$59

How much do c programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for c programmer in Kentucky is $34.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $44.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a C programmer?

C Programmers are software developers who specialize in writing, testing, and maintaining code using the C programming language. They typically work on system-level software, embedded systems, operating systems, and application development where performance and efficiency are critical. C Programmers need a strong understanding of computer architecture, memory management, and low-level programming concepts. Their work is fundamental in industries such as technology, automotive, telecommunications, and more.

What does a C programmer do?

A C Programmer is someone responsible for developing the code that integrates into an operating system, as well as other operating system modules, low-level libraries for other high-level languages, and embedded systems. C is a versatile and flexible programming language that is used for a wide range of purposes. C Programmers are tasked with designing, building, and maintaining efficient, reliable, and reusable C++ code, suggesting and implementing new solutions, creating high-level designs, and supporting the team in maintaining a code's quality. Also, they assist with analysis, design, implementation, and testing. You typically need to earn a degree from post-secondary education to be a qualified candidate for a C Programmer role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a C programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a C Programmer, you need a strong understanding of C programming language fundamentals, data structures, algorithms, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with development environments like GCC or Visual Studio, version control systems such as Git, and familiarity with debugging tools are commonly required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective problem-solving abilities help C Programmers stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for writing efficient, reliable code and ensuring robust software performance in diverse technical environments.

How do C programmers typically collaborate with other team members during software development projects?

C Programmers often work closely with other developers, software engineers, and quality assurance teams throughout the development cycle. They participate in code reviews, contribute to design discussions, and integrate their code with modules written in other languages or by other team members. Effective communication and documentation are key, as C code frequently interacts with hardware or low-level components that require coordination with system architects or embedded engineers. This collaborative environment helps ensure robust, efficient, and maintainable software solutions.

What is the difference between C Programmer vs C Developer?

AspectC ProgrammerC Developer
Required CredentialsProficiency in C language, often with a degree in Computer Science or related fieldSimilar credentials, with additional emphasis on software development experience
Work EnvironmentTypically in embedded systems, firmware, or low-level programmingOften in software applications, system software, or embedded systems
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, automotive, embedded device firmsSoftware firms, tech startups, hardware companies

The main difference between a C Programmer and a C Developer lies in their scope of work. C Programmers focus primarily on writing and debugging C code, often in embedded or low-level environments. C Developers may have a broader role, including designing, testing, and maintaining C-based applications. Both roles require similar skills and credentials, but their typical work environments and responsibilities can differ slightly.

Are C programmers still in demand?

C programmers are still in demand, especially in industries such as embedded systems, operating systems, and hardware development, where low-level programming and performance optimization are critical. Knowledge of C remains valuable for maintaining legacy systems and working with hardware interfaces, and proficiency with related tools like compilers and debugging is often required.

What can I do with C programming?

A C programmer can develop system software, embedded systems, operating systems, and performance-critical applications. They often work with low-level hardware interfaces, use tools like compilers and debuggers, and require knowledge of algorithms and data structures. C programming skills are valuable in industries such as technology, automotive, and telecommunications.

What is the salary of a C programmer?

The salary of a C programmer varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $110,000 annually in many regions. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced programmers with skills in embedded systems or real-time programming can earn higher salaries.

Which companies hire C programmers?

Many technology, automotive, aerospace, and embedded systems companies hire C programmers for developing firmware, operating systems, and performance-critical applications. Notable employers include Intel, Microsoft, NASA, and various startups and manufacturing firms that require low-level programming skills and experience with tools like compilers and debugging environments.

What are the most commonly searched types of C Programmer jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of C Programmer jobs in Kentucky are:

What job categories do people searching C Programmer jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for C Programmer jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for C Programmer jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most C Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various C Programmer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,423 per year, or $34.3 per hour.

P&C Senior Test Engineer

POWERX

Louisville, KY โ€ข On-site

Part-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

At POWERX, our people are at the heart of everything we do. From testing and commissioning to engineering and compliance, every service we provide plays a vital role in powering safe, reliable, and efficient systems.
As the nation's leading provider of comprehensive power solutions, we foster a culture of integrity, respect, and teamwork. In an ever-evolving industry, our mission is to help businesses optimize system performance, ensure safety and compliance, and drive operational excellence through innovation and accountability.
Whether you're an experienced professional or launching your career, POWERX provides an environment where you can grow, make an impact, and build a lasting legacy.
Job Summary:
The P&C Senior Test Engineer is responsible for the independent execution of testing, commissioning, and validation activities across transmission, distribution, and generation substations. This role operates with minimal supervision on assigned scopes, applies sound system-level understanding to protection testing, and actively contributes to the development of less experienced team members.
The P&C Senior Test Engineer understands not only how to execute individual protection tests but also how the tested components interact as a complete protection system. This includes CT/VT theory and application, relay logic interpretation, control circuit verification, drawing navigation, and the ability to identify and escalate anomalies before they become operational risks.
This role is the critical developmental step between directed execution and full project ownership. The Senior Test Engineer is building the leadership habits, system-level awareness, and planning skills required to advance to Lead. This position supports greenfield and brownfield commissioning projects involving relay protection systems, SCADA integration, breaker controls, transformer protection, and bus protection across substations up to 765kV.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • None.

Duties/Responsibilities:
Technical Knowledge
  • Independently execute relay protection testing using Doble, Omicron, RTS, SEL AcSELerator, GE Enervista, and equivalent testing platforms.
  • Test and validate protection elements including line, transformer, bus, feeder, breaker failure, reclosing, and transfer trip schemes under Lead oversight on complex configurations.
  • Perform and validate CT/PT testing including ratio, polarity, phasing, saturation characteristics, and single-point grounding verification independently.
  • Execute complete relay input/output testing, analog-to-digital metering checks, and individual element pickup and timing tests with accurate pass/fail determination.
  • Interpret relay logic, phasors, event reports, and oscillography to identify abnormal conditions and communicate findings clearly to the Lead.
  • Apply working knowledge of AC/DC power system fundamentals and complex power calculations, symmetrical components and relay element operation, protection zones and coordination philosophy, instrument transformer behavior and application, and overcurrent/differential/impedance/breaker failure protection applications.
  • Read, interpret, and navigate one-lines, three-lines, schematics, wiring diagrams, logic diagrams, cable schedules, and panel layouts with ease.
  • Identify station phasing and equipment orientation from any location in the substation.
  • Support switching activities and outage coordination independently; prepare projects through final pre-energization readiness with Lead oversight required prior to actual energization.
  • Treat every testing scope as a system validation exercise, not an isolated component check.
  • Technical Development
  • Actively engage with internal training material at the advanced levels and apply that learning directly to field assignments and commissioning scopes.
  • Develop complete test plans, isolation plans, energization plans, commissioning procedures, Human Performance mitigation plans, and job hazard analyses for assigned scopes independently, ensuring all documents reflect the full protection scheme and operational risk profile.
  • Review full drawing packages prior to testing not just the immediate work area identifying design inconsistencies, relay logic concerns, and drawing errors for escalation before work begins.
  • Ensure all testing aligns with utility standards, NETA practices, IEEE guidance, and client-specific commissioning requirements, taking ownership of standard compliance on assigned scopes.
  • Maintain complete, accurate, and well-organized test records, redlines, and daily reports; support the Lead in reviewing results for operational correctness prior to client turnover.
  • Actively study complex protection schemes, SCADA integration, IEC 61850 / GOOSE communications, and advanced relay platforms to build the system-level knowledge required at the Lead level.
  • Seek exposure to project coordination, energization planning, and scope management under Lead mentorship to prepare for full project ownership.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of Protection and Control procedures and field standards.

Mentorship and Team Collaboration
  • Actively mentor Test Engineer II team members on protection testing techniques, drawing interpretation, relay logic, and the development of independent judgment in the field.
  • Actively mentor Test Engineers on foundational skills including equipment identification, test set operation, documentation practices, and safe work execution.
  • Tailor coaching to where each individual sits in the career ladder - guiding the Test Engineer toward TE II readiness and guiding the Test Engineer II toward Senior-level independence.
  • Reinforce safe work practices, HP tool use, and verification culture within the crew through consistent modeling and direct feedback.
  • Provide honest, constructive feedback to junior team members and communicate development observations to the Lead.
  • Contribute to a learning environment where questions are encouraged, mistakes are learning opportunities, and technical growth is a shared team priority.
  • Support the Lead in monitoring scope changes and communicating field impacts.

Safety & Human Performance
  • Maintain and promote a safety-first culture in all environments.
  • Strictly adhere to Lock Out / Tag Out (LOTO) procedures and switching boundaries.
  • Utilize Human Performance Improvement (HPI) tools to minimize operational risk.
  • Verify live-dead-live conditions and establish safe isolation boundaries.
  • Lead daily safety discussions, JHA reviews, and pre-job briefs.
  • Maintain compliance with OSHA, NERC CIP, utility requirements, and internal standards.
  • Support investigation and mitigation of operational or safety events when required.

Additional responsibilities and tasks as required to support the organization's goals and adapt to evolving business needs.
Attributes/Abilities:
  • Must have a satisfactory background/MVR check.
  • Must pass a pre-employment, post-accident, reasonable suspicion, and/or random drug test.
  • Maintains a questioning attitude and high attention to detail to catch errors early and confirm work is done right.
  • Stays calm under pressure and adapts quickly to changing conditions in dynamic field environments.
  • Mentorship mindset - invests in developing junior engineers and reinforcing safe, high-quality work across the crew.
  • Customer-focused in every interaction, with a commitment to continuous learning and ongoing professional development.
  • Ability to maintain professional conduct and technical credibility in all client-facing interactions.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word and Excel for accurate documentation, reporting, and data tracking.

Experience and Education:
  • Minimum 2+ years of experience in high-voltage Protection & Control testing and commissioning.
  • Experience commissioning substations from 12.5kV through 765kV preferred.
  • Experience with SEL, GE, ABB, Siemens, Westinghouse, or equivalent relay platforms.
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Technology, or an Associate degree in Electrical Technology or related field experience preferred.
  • OSHA 30 certification preferred.
  • Knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and OSHA Electrical Safe Work Practices is preferred.
  • First Aid / CPR certification preferred.
  • Familiarity with NERC CIP requirements preferred.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to work safely around energized electrical equipment and mechanical hazards.
  • Ability to work in operational substations and construction environments.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to travel as required.
  • Ability to work overtime and outage schedules as necessary.
  • Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, vibration, heat, dust, oil, grease, and energized equipment environments.