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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Centennial, CO · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

RTU / PLC Programming - Ladder Logic, Sequential Function Blocks, Structured Text * DCS Development ... Ability to work with cross-functional and discipline teams effectively Above entry level, the ...

The Denver office is Wood's regional center for water resources engineering and is widely recognized as a national leader in water resources modeling and management innovation. Decisions and ...

Controls Specialist

Centennial, CO · On-site

$29.50 - $39/hr

RTU / PLC Programming - Ladder Logic, Sequential Function Blocks, Structured Text * DCS Development ... Ability to work with cross-functional and discipline teams effectively Above entry level, the ...

Drafter IV

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$66K - $105K/yr

The Facilities Engineering team provides facilities designs and engineering guidance across BAE ... S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which ...

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See Colorado salary details

$42.6K

$84.8K

$117.8K

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

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in Colorado is $84,820.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $97,300.00 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.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in Colorado as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 15% As Needed, 9% Full Time, 66% Part Time, 8% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $84,820 per year, or $40.8 per hour.
Entry Level Electrical Engineer (Commercial & Industrial)

Entry Level Electrical Engineer (Commercial & Industrial)

NEI Electric Power Engineering, Inc

Lakewood, CO

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Entry-Level ElectricalEngineer -Commercial & IndustrialAbout the Position

AsaElectricalEngineerin theCommercial & Industrialgroup,you willbe responsible forperforming engineering design and analysis under the responsible charge of a Professional Engineer in a manner that provides the client with a qualitydeliverablethat is on time and within budget.

Salary Range:$75,000 - $110,000 / year

The salary range above is based upon the Denver, Colorado labor market.

This opportunity isavailable to bothlocal / in-office(Lakewood, CO) andfull-time remotecandidates.

Essential Responsibilities
  • Perform detailed design of all aspects of electrical power systems to include one-line diagrams, three-line diagrams, control and relaying schematics, wiring diagrams, SCADA, communications, conduit and cable sizing/routing, grounding design, general arrangement, selection of equipment, writing of equipment specifications, project and construction cost estimates, and project scheduling.

  • Prepare computer-based models and perform power system studies on utility and industrial/commercial electrical power transmission and distribution systems, including short circuit, load flow, relay coordination, arc flash, motor starting, power factor, harmonicanalysisand other related studies. Employeeshould create asimple hand checksto quantify the computer aided results.

  • Develop protective relay settings. Set, test, wire, and install relaying and control systems.

  • Program, install, and test SCADA and PLC systems.

  • Prepare a variety of documents and reports associated with projects including cost estimates, budget reports, proposals, and studies.

  • Perform equipment and relay field testing and start-up and commissioning services.

  • Provide fieldassistanceand troubleshooting.

  • Checking the work of designers, drafters, and field service personnel forgeneral qualityand accuracy asrequired.

  • Understanding and applications of applicable Codes and Standards.

  • Other duties as assigned

Must Have
  • Education:Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technologyfrom an accredited institution, electric poweroptionpreferred

  • Experience:0- 5years of relevant engineering or field experience

  • Licensure:FEispreferred

  • Knowledge and familiarity with medium andhigh voltage power systems

  • Proficiencywith AutoCAD.

  • Power system modeling software such asEasyPower,ETAPor SKM.

  • Interaction with clients, customers,contractorsand others.

  • Assistwith client contacts and communicationpertaining tospecific assignments and meetings

  • Possesses effective written and oral communications skills

  • Good interpersonal and people skills

  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis

Working Conditions

Work Environment:Work is performed in an office setting and some field work is also required

Travel:Typical: 15 - 25%

Physical Activities:Must be able to lift 50 lbs.

Managerial Responsibilities:Team Memberis responsible formanaging their own work schedule with input fromtheirsupervisor and completing assigned tasks.Team Membershouldidentifydiscrepancies in assigned work and bring to attention of supervisor or engineer responsible for the projectin a timely manner.Team Member's work product should be self-checked in a manner that is suitable for review by the supervisor or engineer responsible for the project.

About NEI Electric Power Engineering

Serving Others.EnrichingEnvironment. Improving Continually. Quality Results. Voted as a top workplace by the Denver Postfor six straight years (2020 - 2025), our values have been woven into the fabric of who we are since 1982, guiding our decision making throughout the years. As an engineering services firm, NEI's mission is to create a great organizationthat serves people and solves problems.

Since NEI's founding, we have developed a culture of collaborationand accountability,both across our teams and departments, and externally with our clients across the United States. We believe in two core ideas: hiring great people and celebrating our teammembers withdiversebackgroundsand unique experiences; bringing in new, unique, and exciting perspectives that can only strengthenNEI as we chart out path into the future.

We are a proud equal opportunityemployer,and we do not discriminateon the basis ofrace, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status,martialstatus, disability, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, or genetic information.

Team Member Benefits

We believe that taking care of our team members is of theutmostimportance.We strive to foster a community of belonging, professional development, and industry involvement; providing our team with the benefits, tools, and support systems to excel in their roles. Out comprehensive benefits package includes:

  • 100% Employer paid team member premiums for Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic Life Insurance, and Long-Term Disability

  • Voluntary Life Insurance

  • 401(k) with employer match; 100% immediate vesting

  • Annual & discretionary bonus programs

  • Paid time off

  • Employerpaidlicensure (FE/PE), certifications, seminars, & conferences

  • Paid parental leave

  • Tuition reimbursement

  • Eight (8) paid holidays including a floating holiday to use at your discretion.

  • Annual team building budget

  • Remote or in office work environment

  • Career development, training, and coaching opportunities

  • Pet insurance

NEI Electric Power Engineeringparticipatesin E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your completed Form I-9 to confirm your work authorization in the United States.