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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Hitachi

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 ...

Hitachi, Ltd.

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 ...

Wood Plc

Junior Water Resources Engineer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$76K - $105K/yr

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;

LAUNCH

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 ID:qnkTyx

All JobsPlc Programmer JobsEntry Level Plc Programmer JobsEntry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Missouri

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 Aug 25, 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 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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Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in Missouri 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 $75,663 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Schwoeppe Machine & Tool Inc

Marthasville, MO • On-site

$73K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

We are looking for a self-starter with a strong interest in Controls Engineering. This full-time, first-shift position offers a flexible schedule, with the option to work Monday-Thursday or Monday-Friday. Occasional overtime may be available when workloads permit.

Core Impact of this Role: As a Controls Engineer, you will own the automation life cycle from initial electrical schematics to on-site commissioning. You will maximize system uptime and bring high precision machinery to life.

Primary Responsibilities: Electrical systems design for industrial machinery; Program PLC's to automate complex equipment and processes; Develop HMI screens for operator monitoring, control and efficiency; Integrate vision system for automated inspection and quality checks; Optimize motor drives for precise, high-speed motion control; Travel to customer facilities for installation and support; Create and optimize 3, 4, and 5-axis machining process using MDI, G-Code editing, and Mastercam software.

Required Qualifications: B.S. or Associate degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related fields; CAD Software: Proficiency in SolidWorks Electrical or AutoCAD Electrical; PLC Programming: Basic to intermediate knowledge of ladder logic.

Preferred Qualifications: Experience: Open to entry-level candidates; prior controls engineer experience is preferred; HMI Platforms: Experience developing with FactoryTalk View Studio; Vision Systems: Familiarity with Cognex or Keyence inspection platforms; Motion Control: Understanding of Allen-Bradley or ABB drive systems; Robotics: Experience programming FANUC or Yaskawa industrial robots.