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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

BENTELER Group

Engineering Intern

Grand Rapids, MI

$16 - $21/hr

Position Requirements * Must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution * Entry level PLC and Industrial electrical experience * Entry Level automation technology, programming ...

Benteler

Engineering Intern

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Position Requirements * Must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution * Entry level PLC and Industrial electrical experience * Entry Level automation technology, programming ...

BENTELER Group

Quality Intern

Grand Rapids, MI

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Position Requirements * Must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution * Entry level PLC and Industrial electrical experience * Entry Level automation technology, programming ...

Benteler

Quality Intern

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Position Requirements * Must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution * Entry level PLC and Industrial electrical experience * Entry Level automation technology, programming ...

Norsk Hydro

PLC Technician

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$28.75 - $35.50/hr

Extensive experience in troubleshooting, interpreting, modifying, and programming PLCs ... preferred. * Entry-level candidates or recent graduates are encouraged to apply; relevant ...

Elevation Packaging & Equipment, Inc.

Be Seen First

Robot Programmer

Ashland, NE · On-site

$65K - $130K/yr

Occasionally travel to support projects and implementations Required Qualifications * Entry-level ... Experience with PLC programming and debugging * Knowledge of version control systems such as Git

Norsk Hydro

PLC Technician

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$28.75 - $35.50/hr

Extensive experience in troubleshooting, interpreting, modifying, and programming PLCs ... preferred. * Entry-level candidates or recent graduates are encouraged to apply; relevant ...

Norsk Hydro

PLC Technician (22025)

Gainesville, GA · On-site

$29.25 - $36.25/hr

Extensive experience in troubleshooting, interpreting, modifying, and programming PLCs ... preferred. * Entry-level candidates or recent graduates are encouraged to apply; relevant ...

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Entry Level Plc Programmer information

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$40.5K

$80.7K

$112K

How much do entry level plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in the United States is $80,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $92,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level PLC Programmer?

An Entry Level PLC Programmer is a professional who is responsible for programming, testing, and maintaining programmable logic controllers (PLCs) in industrial or manufacturing environments. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced engineers to help automate machinery, troubleshoot control systems, and ensure production processes run smoothly. This role requires a basic understanding of electrical systems, logic programming, and industrial automation, as well as familiarity with common PLC software platforms. Entry level PLC programmers often assist with system installations, upgrades, and technical support while gaining hands-on experience in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level PLC programmers when transitioning from academic learning to real-world industrial environments?

Entry level PLC programmers often find that adapting theoretical knowledge to complex, real-world industrial systems can be challenging. Unlike controlled classroom settings, industrial environments may involve troubleshooting legacy equipment, integrating with various hardware brands, and adhering to strict safety standards. New programmers also need to quickly learn to communicate effectively with cross-functional teams like electricians, maintenance staff, and engineers to ensure smooth project execution. Gaining hands-on experience and asking questions are key to overcoming these early hurdles.

What Does an Entry-Level PLC Programmer Do?

As an entry-level PLC programmer, your duties are to help engineers and designers create new programs or improve existing programs in a programmable logic controller, which is a stripped-down computer that operates automated machinery. The PLC monitors things like production efficiency and machine temperature. Your responsibilities are to assess the current automation process to determine the specific needs of the PLC device and work with other specialists to improve the design of new programs for manufacturing equipment that has not yet been put into large-scale production.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plc Programmer vs Automation Technician?

AspectEntry Level Plc ProgrammerAutomation Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in automation or programmingTechnical diploma or certification in automation, electrical, or mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentOffice or plant floor, programming PLCs, testing, troubleshootingPlant floor, maintaining and repairing automation equipment
Industry UsageManufacturing, industrial automation, process controlManufacturing, industrial facilities, equipment maintenance

Entry Level Plc Programmers focus on writing and testing PLC code, often working closely with engineers. Automation Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and repair of automation systems. While both roles require technical certifications and work in manufacturing environments, their primary responsibilities differ, with programmers emphasizing software development and technicians focusing on hardware and system upkeep.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level PLC Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level PLC Programmer, you need a basic understanding of electrical engineering principles, ladder logic, and a relevant associate degree or technical certification. Familiarity with PLC programming software (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), HMI systems, and troubleshooting tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with engineering teams and resolve automation issues efficiently. These skills ensure correct system programming, minimize downtime, and support reliable, safe industrial operations.
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Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $80,664 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

Engineering Intern

BENTELER Group

Grand Rapids, MI

$16 - $21/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Division: BENTELER Automotive 
Functional Area: Others 
Career Level: Internship for Students 
Contract Type: Short-term/Full-time 
Weekly Working Hours: 45,00 
Required Languages: English 
Requisition ID: 46619 

Benefits: United States : 401(k) Match || United States : Development || United States : Holidays 

At BENTELER, we make it possible. From promoting individual talents to international career prospects, or from generous opportunities for designing your career to personal development opportunities-at BENTELER, we always have answers to your questions about the future, based entirely on your personal needs. Diverse options that makes sure you can be anything and everything. Or, as we like to put it: BENTELER makes it happen!

Position Responsibilities

  • To assist skilled trades individuals in the troubleshooting, repair, and preventative actions of Production Equipment.  
  • Equipment uptime.   
  • Research and ordering of parts required for repair or outside services.
  • Recommend parts required to repair machines.    
  • Provides support to all activities assigned by the direct supervisor. 

Position Requirements

  • Must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution
  • Entry level PLC and Industrial electrical experience
  • Entry Level automation technology, programming, troubleshooting, and repair
  • Metal Forming and Welding Experience Preferred but not required
  • Knowledge of process analysis including pareto, 5why/8d, lean manufacturing, GD&T preferred
  • Systematic approach to troubleshooting and problem solving with strong communication experience

Your contact

Casondra Meerschaert 
BENTELER Human Resources
Phone: +1 248 364-7274 

Apply