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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The File Clerk is an entry level position. One to two years of law firm experience preferred ... Most of our California-based lawyers have earned engineering or technical degrees in addition to ...

File Clerk

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$18/hr

The File Clerk is an entry level position. One to two years of law firm experience preferred ... Most of our California-based lawyers have earned engineering or technical degrees in addition to ...

The File Clerk is an entry level position. One to two years of law firm experience preferred ... Most of our California-based lawyers have earned engineering or technical degrees in addition to ...

Superintendent I

San Diego, CA · On-site

$67K - $114K/yr

BAE Systems is seeking an entry level Ship Superintendent I. In this position, you will report ... Bachelor's degree in technical, engineering, project management, or business major * Knowledge of ...

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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 Jun 15, 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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in California 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 $79,608 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Stationary Engineer - CA Licensed General Electrician License Required - SNA Airport

Stationary Engineer - CA Licensed General Electrician License Required - SNA Airport

Oshkosh Corporation

Santa Ana, CA

$54.76/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Oshkosh Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 40 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

249th of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

About Oshkosh AeroTech, an Oshkosh company

Oshkosh AeroTech is a leading provider of aviation ground support products, gate equipment and airport services to commercial airlines, airports, air-freight carriers, ground handling and military customers. Oshkosh AeroTech offers products that make a difference in people's lives by supporting those in our communities who do some of the toughest work. They own many of the most trusted brands in the air transportation industry, including LEKTRO, JetAire, JetPower, AmpTekO, Jetway, and more.

JOB OVERVIEW
Join Oshkosh AeroTech to support the operation and maintenance of critical airport systems as a Stationary Engineer. The Stationary Engineer role is responsible for diagnosing, troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining a variety of electromechanical systems including aircraft passenger boarding bridges, conveyor systems, PLC systems, scanners, sorters, pushers, and baggage makeup units (BMUs). The ideal candidate must possess a CA General Electrician License with a strong mechanical and electrical background, a commitment to safety, and the ability to work effectively within a team in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

YOUR IMPACT

  • Diagnose, troubleshoot, repair, and maintain aircraft passenger boarding bridges, PLC systems, sorters, scanners, conveyor systems, pushers, and related controls equipment, components, and systems.
  • Monitor and maintain BMU (Baggage Makeup Unit) systems and components.
  • Provide concise, accurate, and sufficiently detailed data for input of all maintenance information.
  • Provide emergency/unscheduled and scheduled maintenance repairs of equipment and facilities.
  • Read and interpret equipment manuals and work orders to perform required maintenance and service.
  • Complete daily work log and work order paperwork for tasks accomplished during shift.
  • Respond to maintenance calls when required and/or requested.
  • Comply with company safety program.
  • Ability to work productively and cohesively in a diverse and multicultural environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
  • Work within a team and support other shifts.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Candidate must hold a valid General Electrician License in CA
  • High School diploma or GED equivalent
  • Valid Driver's License
  • Strong Interpersonal and Teamwork Skills
  • Must pass background check in order to work in secure areas of an airport
  • Ability to work 1st, 2nd, or 3rd shift including weekends and holidays

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Airport experience a plus
  • Computer, Typing, and Data Entry experience / skills preferred

HOURLY PAY: $54.76/HR

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment is similar to airport operation with vehicular traffic. The employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, outside weather conditions, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, cold, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud. Employees will work on an airport ramp around aircrafts and around heavy equipment.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

While performing the duties of a Carpenter, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; use hands and fingers to handle or feel; reach with hands and arms; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear. The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 49 pounds. Ability to work in outside weather conditions on an airport ramp around aircrafts and the confined areas of baggage conveyor systems. Specific vision abilities required by this job include good close proximity vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus. Good hand / eye coordination is required. The employee is occasionally required to sit.

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email corporatetalentacquisition@oshkoshcorp.com.

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer.Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.


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