2

Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See Virginia salary details

$40.2K

$80K

$111K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in Virginia is $79,972.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,400.00 and $91,700.00 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $79,972 per year, or $38.4 per hour.
Future Opportunities TEMPORARY ASSEMBLY OPERATOR

Future Opportunities TEMPORARY ASSEMBLY OPERATOR

TE Connectivity

Hampton, VA • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time, Temporary

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


TE Connectivity rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 139 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

4/16/26
At TE, you will unleash your potential working with people from diverse backgrounds and industries to create a safer, sustainable and more connected world.
Job Description:
Job Overview
TE Connectivity's Production Operator II is responsible for assembling and testing electronic and mechanical components in accordance with standardized work instructions, manufacturing drawings, and operating
procedures. This role requires strong attention to detail, good hand-eye coordination, and a continuous improvement mindset.
Job Requirements
Must be available to train on 1st Shift Monday-Friday 6am-2:30pm
  • Follow standardized work instructions for the assembly of components in accordance with top/sub level drawings.
  • The testing of electronics/mechanical parts assembly's that require good hand eye coordination
  • Operating hydraulic presses
  • Read and comprehending manufacturing drawings and S.O.Ps./ OMS
  • 5s - Ensure high cleanliness standards are maintained during the shift and on the responsible areas.
  • Demonstrate a mindset of continuous improvement in all duties.
  • Follow all direction and safety protocols.
  • Using microscopes.
  • Use small hand tools.
  • Applies job skills and company policies and procedures.
  • Experience (1+ years preferred). Not Required
  • Duties and tasks are varied and semi-routine.
  • 12 hour shift is 1/2 lunch you work 36 hours but you're compensated for 40 hours

Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Required good hand eye coordination
  • Using microscopes.
  • Use small hand tools.
  • Manufacturing inspection experience
  • Experience in production environment ,as a machinist inspector, or printing press operator

Physical demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
    • While performing duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands to find, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms and talk or hear.
    • Frequently required to stand and stoop, kneel, or crouch, however, the employee shall be mostly standing.
    • Regularly lift and/or move up to 15 pounds unassisted, occasionally lift and/or move up to 100 pounds assisted. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision for detailed work.

Preferred Qualifications
Entry level position, typically requiring little to no related work experience. Completion of high school or equivalent is usually required.
Competencies
Values: Integrity, Accountability, Inclusion, Innovation, Teamwork
ABOUT TE CONNECTIVITY
TE Connectivity plc (NYSE: TEL) is a global industrial technology leader creating a safer, sustainable, productive, and connected future. As a trusted innovation partner, our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the distribution of power, signal and data to advance next-generation transportation, energy networks, automated factories, data centers enabling artificial intelligence, and more.
Our more than 90,000 employees, including 10,000 engineers, work alongside customers in approximately 130 countries. In a world that is racing ahead, TE ensures that EVERY CONNECTION COUNTS. Learn more at www.te.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, WeChat, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter).
COMPENSATION
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience: $21 (subject to change dependent on physical location)
• Posted salary ranges are made in good faith. TE Connectivity reserves the right to adjust ranges depending on the experience/qualification of the selected candidate as well as internal and external equity.
• Total Compensation = Base Salary + Incentive(s) + Benefits
BENEFITS
• A comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, 401(k), disability, life insurance, employee stock purchase plan, paid time off and voluntary benefits.
EOE, Including Disability/Vets
IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING RECRUITMENT FRAUD
TE Connectivity has become aware of fraudulent recruitment activities being conducted by individuals or organizations falsely claiming to represent TE Connectivity. Please be advised that TE Connectivity never requests payment or fees from job applicants at any stage of the recruitment process. All legitimate job openings are posted exclusively on our official careers website at te.com/careers, and all email communications from our recruitment team will come only from actual email addresses ending in @te.com. If you receive any suspicious communications, we strongly advise you not to engage or provide any personal information, and to report the incident to your local authorities.
Job Locations:
1000 LUCAS WAY
HAMPTON, Virginia 23666
United States
Posting City: HAMPTON
Job Country: United States
Travel Required: Less than 10%
Requisition ID: 151183
Workplace Type: Onsite
External Careers Page:

What TE Connectivity employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom