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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

$53.73 - $75.77/hr

... PLC. * Inspects, troubleshoots, and repairs electrical work on rides, ride control systems ... Training in Electrical/industrial engineering and demonstrated expertise in drafting software such ...

AEG

Ride Electrician

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

... PLC. * Inspects, troubleshoots, and repairs electrical work on rides, ride control systems ... Training in Electrical/industrial engineering and demonstrated expertise in drafting software such ...

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab ... Develops understanding of pouring line technology (example: machinery, PLC and formulations)

Carpenter Canada Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$62 - $76/hr

This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab ... Develops understanding of pouring line technology (example: machinery, PLC and formulations)

Carpenter Co.

Pouring Line Engineer

Riverside, CA · On-site

$69K/yr

This position is an entry level position that will receive extensive training on polyurethane slab ... Develops understanding of pouring line technology (example: machinery, PLC and formulations)

Actalent

Process Engineer

Carlsbad, CA

$37/hr

Experience with mechanical assembly, electrical troubleshooting, automation systems, PLC, lean ... * Entry-level engineers with strong hands-on technical aptitude will be considered. Work ...

New

BAE Systems

Eng I - HW

San Diego, CA · On-site

$117K - $156K/yr

BAE Systems is looking for an entry-level/junior Hardware Engineer ( * You will join other ... S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which ...

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Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See California salary details

$40K

$79.6K

$110.5K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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

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Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,608 per year, or $38.3 per hour.

Entry Level Controls Engineer (West - OR, NV, CA, AZ, WA)

Barry-Wehmiller

Irvine, CA • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Support control system integration projects by designing, programming, troubleshooting, and implementing automated systems.

  • Develop control system components such as electrical control panels, PLC programs, and human machine interfaces, and support related documentation.

  • Travel to client sites to assist with manufacturing process design, installation, start-up activities, and project execution.

Job description

About Us:

BW Design Group is a fully integrated architecture, engineering, construction, system integration, and consulting firm committed to helping our clients realize their most critical goals from Strategy to Commercialization. As the only firm born from a manufacturing technology company to become an independent and fully integrated firm, we combine deep domain expertise in the manufacturing environment with an approach that is built to serve the dynamic needs of our clients. Rooted in our distinct culture of Truly Human Leadership, we cultivate the leaders who will define tomorrow and partner with our clients in the food & beverage, life sciences, industrial, and advanced technology industries to build the future of manufacturing and technology.


 

Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.


 

Job Description:

Who You'll Work With

At Design Group,you'llcollaborate with experienced leaders, technical specialists, and subject matter experts to solve complex challenges for some of the world's leading companies.You'lljoin a growing team of more than 1,500 professionals across 45 U.S. offices whereyou'llbe empowered to make an impact, develop yourexpertise, and grow your career.

LOCATIONS: Bellingham, WA; Irvine, CA; Fresno, CA; Phoenix; AZ, Reno, NV; Sacramento, CA; Seattle, WA; Lake Oswego, OR

What You'll Do

In this role,you'llbe responsible forsupporting control system integration projects that help clients modernize manufacturing operations and improve performance.You'llwork closely withcontrolsengineers, project teams, technical specialists, and client stakeholders to design, program, troubleshoot, and implement automated systems. This position playsan important rolein developing practical engineering solutions for complex manufacturing environments while giving you the opportunity to build technical depth through hands-on project work and mentorship.

  • Apply programming, electrical design, and engineering problem-solving skills to modern manufacturing systems

  • Design, program, and troubleshoot automated machinery and line control systems

  • Develop user applications thatmonitorand control production processes for consumer goods and regulated manufacturing environments

  • Design control systems that provide real-time production lifecycle feedback

  • Design electrical control panels and support related control system documentation

  • Develop industrial controller PLC programs and human machine interfaces

  • Support project teams with control system integration deliverables and client-facing project work

  • Travel to client sites to support manufacturing process design, project execution, facility development, installation, and start-up activities

  • Build technical capabilities through hands-on exposure to programming, automation, electrical design, and project execution

  • Contribute to client and team relationships by approaching project work with integrity, accountability, and technical curiosity

What You'll Bring

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in electrical, mechatronic, mechanical, chemical, or computer engineering, or an equivalent technical degree

  • Academic, co-op, internship, project, or entry-level experience applying engineering fundamentals to automation, manufacturing, or control systems

  • Ability to travel for project requirements, including installation and start-up activities, client and company meetings, trainings, seminars, forums, and conventions

  • Foundational knowledge of programming methods, electrical design, and engineering problem solving

Preferred Qualifications

  • Exposure to PLCs, HMIs, industrial control panels, or automated manufacturing systems

The approximate pay range for this position is$75,000 - $90,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to background, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as geographic location of the position.


 

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work-therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions. Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.


 

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


Company:

Design Group

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