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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Electrician

Jefferson City, MO

$23.75 - $32.50/hr

When necessary, perform duties normally assigned to entry level electricians, Assist mechanical and ... Understand and use various machine - PLC programming languages * Measure, cut, thread, bend ...

Electrician

Jefferson City, MO · On-site

$23.75 - $32.50/hr

When necessary, perform duties normally assigned to entry level electricians, Assist mechanical and ... Understand and use various machine - PLC programming languages * Measure, cut, thread, bend ...

Overview / Responsibilities Wood is currently recruiting entry level Water Resources Engineers in our growing water resources group based in Nashville, TN, with staff in Louisville, KY; Knoxville, TN;

You will use your extensive knowledge to assist entry-level mechanics with difficult repairs * You ... Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) (Allen Bradley) * Conveyor Systems ID:qnkTyx

Maintenance Technician

Columbia, MO · On-site

$36.57 - $38/hr

You will use your extensive knowledge to assist entry-level mechanics with difficult repairs * You ... Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) (Allen Bradley) * Conveyor Systems

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See Missouri salary details

$38K

$75.7K

$105.1K

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

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in Missouri is $75,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,800.00 and $86,800.00 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 Missouri? The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in Missouri are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Missouri look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in Missouri as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,663 per year, or $36.4 per hour.
Electrician

$23.75 - $32.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Location:

Jefferson City, Missouri, United States of America

Job ID:

R0121165

Date Posted:

2026-03-23

Company Name:

HITACHI ENERGY USA INC

Profession (Job Category):

Production & Skilled Trades

Job Schedule:

Full time

Remote:

No

Job Description:

General Information:

Examine, Troubleshoot, Design & Repair AC/DC electronic and/or electrical circuits, Including remote control, industrial controls, PLC, CNC and Robot computers/ processors. Perform electrical layouts and install production equipment and perform repairs or replacements as required. Modify and edit machine language programs. Setup computer systems and install various software systems.

Your Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for proper use and maintenance of required personal safety protection equipment and understanding proper hazardous waste material handling.
  • Receive or determine work assignments, view logbooks, and overdue reports, equipment availability, work orders as to help in completion of assignment. Keep areas clean, orderly and have safe work conditions.
  • Initiate appropriate repairs and adjustments to maintain optimal performance of equipment.
  • Identify and report material irregularities and equipment malfunctions to appropriate personnel and or department.
  • Assemble and / or connect fixtures, electrical controls and apparatus including switches, relays, circuit breakers, power cables and grounds.
  • Examine, trouble shoot or test equipment utilizing electrical knowledge and sensing instruments to determine cause of failure or malfunction on a variety of electrical and electronic circuits.
  • Perform servicing, repairs, adjustments, alignments, and calibration of electrical or electronic circuitry per blueprints, manufactures schematics, or wiring diagrams.
  • Assemble circuitry according to engineering specifications and knowledge of electronic systems.
  • Maintain and completed predictive and preventative maintenance records.
  • Complete required maintenance work orders and all necessary documentation as required or directed.
  • Work with Lead Process Engineer in order to design or fabricate changes or modify electronic controls or add PLC's or control circuits to new or existing equipment.
  • When necessary, perform duties normally assigned to entry level electricians, Assist mechanical and other personnel with repairs as arises or as requested
  • Test, setup and repair hydraulic servo controlled equipment
  • Understand and use various machine - PLC programming languages
  • Measure, cut, thread, bend, assemble and install electrical conduit as required
  • Assist in maintaining and recommending spare parts and inventory
  • Setup VFD Drives and Programming
  • Install, troubleshoot and repair AC/DC electrical controls systems using schematic diagrams or relay logic.
  • Take electrical readings such as voltage, resistance and current, utilizing proper meters and instruments.
  • Maintain preventative maintenance files. Dispose of scrap and other material in proper containers.
  • Apply basic computer knowledge
  • Assist mechanical and other personnel with repairs etc. as the need arises
  • Observe functioning of modified, repaired or new electrical equipment, controls or systems to detect hazards or a need for adjustments, relocation/ replacements of parts.

Your Background:

  • High School Graduation or equivalent by General Equivalency Diploma or certification of graduation requirements. Effective for personnel hired after 1 January 1995.
  • A two year associates degree in electrical or electronic field from an accredited institution or four years practical experience plus an additional two years of electronics training with an emphasis in PLC programming.
  • Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the essential job functions.
  • On the job training to include additional training as assigned, when required.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO)-Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

Protected veterans and qualified individuals with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access the Hitachi Energy career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by completing a general inquiry form on our website. Please include your contact information and specific details about your required accommodation to support you during the job application process.This is solely for job seekers with disabilities requiring accessibility assistance or an accommodation in the job application process. Messages left for other purposes will not receive a response.

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About Hitachi Vantara

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Hitachi Rail is a fully integrated, global provider of rail solutions across rolling stock, signaling, service & maintenance, digital technology and turnkey. With a presence in 38 countries across three continents and over 13,000 employees, our mission is to contribute to society through the continuous development of superior rail transport solutions.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

2017