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Contract Plc Programmer Jobs in Forreston, IL (NOW HIRING)

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Controls Technician

Rockford, IL

$32 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Contract Shift : Night shift, rotating scheduling (2,2,3) Compensation : $32-38/hr Benefits : As a ... PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell preferred) * Experience with VFDs, servo systems, and ...

Sterling Engineering, Inc.

Be Seen First

Automation Technician

Rockford, IL · On-site

$35 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Contract Shift : Night shift, rotating scheduling (2,2,3) Compensation : $32-38/hr Benefits : As a ... PLC troubleshooting (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell preferred) * Experience with VFDs, servo systems, and ...

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All JobsContract Plc Programmer JobsContract Plc Programmer Jobs in Forreston, IL

Contract Plc Programmer information

See Forreston, IL salary details

$38.4K

$76.4K

$106.1K

How much do contract plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract plc programmer in Forreston, IL is $76,404.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $87,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract PLC programmer?

A Contract PLC Programmer is a professional who specializes in programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) on a short-term or project basis. They typically work with industrial automation systems across various industries, such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. Their responsibilities include writing and debugging PLC code, integrating hardware and software, and ensuring system efficiency. Contract PLC Programmers are often hired for specific projects or to assist during peak workloads.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a contract PLC programmer?

Contract PLC Programmers are usually responsible for developing, testing, and troubleshooting automation programs for industrial machinery and control systems. This often involves interpreting electrical schematics, writing and modifying PLC code, commissioning equipment on-site, and collaborating with engineers, electricians, and project managers to meet client requirements. Daily tasks may include diagnosing system errors, implementing upgrades, documenting software changes, and providing remote or on-site technical support. The role can be project-oriented, and flexibility is important, as work environments may range from offices to manufacturing plants or client facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the contract PLC programmer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract PLC Programmer, a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and proficiency in PLC programming languages such as Ladder Logic is essential, often supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Experience with major PLC platforms like Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric, as well as familiarity with HMI/SCADA systems, is highly valued, and certifications such as Siemens Certified Programmer or Rockwell Automation Certificates can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary teams help contract PLC programmers excel. These skills are crucial for delivering robust, reliable automation solutions on time and for ensuring clear collaboration in dynamic, project-based environments.

What cities near Forreston, IL are hiring for Contract Plc Programmer jobs?

Cities near Forreston, IL with the most Contract Plc Programmer job openings:

Contract Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Contract Plc Programmer job openings in Forreston, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,404 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Electrical Design and Test engineer

Accord Technologies Inc.

Rockford, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Electrical Design and Test Engineer
Location: Rockford, IL (Onsite)
Employment Type: Full-Time 
Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen only.
Positon type: Contract.

Mandatory skills: Electrical CAD tools, Electrical Design experience for any test equipment, electrical test setups and fixtures, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials BOMs,est benches, control panels, on-site installation, setup, verification

Position Overview:

We are seeking a hands-on Electrical Engineer with strong experience in test equipment design, setup, and integration. The selected individual will be responsible for developing and commissioning custom test systems to support validation and production testing activities. This role requires both solid electrical engineering fundamentals and practical, hands-on experience building and troubleshooting test setups. 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and develop electrical test setups and fixtures for validation, production, and troubleshooting activities.
  • Create and maintain electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and bills of materials (BOMs).
  • Select, configure, and integrate test instrumentation including power supplies, sensors, signal conditioners, DAQs, and controllers.
  • Assemble, wire, and debug test benches and control panels in lab or production environments.
  • Develop and document test procedures, calibration instructions, and setup configurations.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (mechanical, software, systems) to ensure complete and reliable test solutions.
  • Support on-site installation, setup, and verification of test systems at the customer facility.
  • Diagnose and resolve test system performance issues through systematic troubleshooting.

Required Qualifications:

  • U.S. Citizenship (due to program requirements).
  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in test equipment design, setup, or integration within aerospace, industrial, or manufacturing environments.
  • Proficiency in electrical circuits, instrumentation, and control systems.
  • Hands-on experience building and wiring test fixtures, harnesses, or control panels.
  • Familiarity with electrical CAD tools (AutoCAD Electrical, E3, or equivalent).
  • Working knowledge of data acquisition systems (e.g., NI LabVIEW, PXI, or equivalent).
  • Strong analytical, documentation, and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with automated test systems or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) environments.
  • Exposure to aerospace component testing or regulated electrical systems.
  • Familiarity with PLC programming, LabVIEW scripting, or Python automation.
  • Prior experience supporting customers or facilities in the Rockford, IL area.