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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Wood Plc

Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer

Durham, NC · On-site

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is currently recruiting an Entry-level Geotechnical Engineer for geotechnical engineering work to be based in our Durham, NC ...

Wood Plc

Entry-Level Water Resources Engineer - FEMA

Durham, NC · On-site

$76K - $104K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking an entry-level water resources engineer to join our Water Resources, Geospatial and Technology Group based in Durham ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Holly Springs, NC

$39.42 - $50/hr

Entry-Level Traveling Controls Engineer Overview: Seeking a Controls Engineer with 1+ year of experience in PLC troubleshooting, commissioning, and automation systems. This role supports ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$39.42 - $50/hr

Entry-Level Traveling Controls Engineer Overview: Seeking a Controls Engineer with 1+ year of experience in PLC troubleshooting, commissioning, and automation systems. This role supports ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$39.42 - $50/hr

Entry-Level Traveling Controls Engineer Overview: Seeking a Controls Engineer with 1+ year of experience in PLC troubleshooting, commissioning, and automation systems. This role supports ...

Balfour Beatty

Project Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

... plc (LSE: BBY). Our Benefits Balfour Beatty offers employees a comprehensive compensation and ... This entry-level role offers hands-on experience in all phases of construction and serves as the ...

All JobsPlc Programmer JobsEntry Level Plc Programmer JobsEntry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Durham, NC

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See Durham, NC salary details

$39.1K

$77.9K

$108.2K

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

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in Durham, NC is $77,946.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $65,700.00 and $89,400.00 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 Durham, NC 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 $77,946 per year, or $37.5 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

Raleigh, NC

Barry-Wehmiller
See more jobs at Barry-Wehmillerexternal

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

About Us:

BW Design Group is a fully integrated architecture, engineering, construction, system integration, and consulting firm committed to helping our clients realize their most critical goals from Strategy to Commercialization. As the only firm born from a manufacturing technology company to become an independent and fully integrated firm, we combine deep domain expertise in the manufacturing environment with an approach that is built to serve the dynamic needs of our clients. Rooted in our distinct culture of Truly Human Leadership, we cultivate the leaders who will define tomorrow and partner with our clients in the food & beverage, life sciences, industrial, and advanced technology industries to build the future of manufacturing and technology.


 

Barry-Wehmiller is a diversified global supplier of engineering consulting and manufacturing technology for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper-converting industries. By blending people-centric leadership with disciplined operational strategies and purpose-driven growth, Barry-Wehmiller has become a $3 billion organization with nearly 12,000 team members united by a common belief: to use the power of business to build a better world.


 

Job Description:

Who You'll Work With

At Design Group,you'llcollaborate with experienced leaders, technical specialists, and subject matter experts to solve complex challenges for some of the world's leading companies.You'lljoin a growing team of more than 1,500 professionals across 45 U.S. offices whereyou'llbe empowered to make an impact, develop yourexpertise, and grow your career.

What You'll Do

In this role,you'llbe responsible fordeveloping software and data solutions that support industrial automation and manufacturing system integration projects.You'llwork closely with software engineers,controlsengineers, project teams, and client stakeholders to design, program, test, and deploy SCADA, database, analytics, and control system applications.This position plays an important role in helping clients improve manufacturing visibility and performance while giving you hands-on experience with industrial software, system integration, and site start-up activities.

  • Develop software control algorithms, data file structures, terminal displays, and data transmission applications

  • Program industrial applications using PLC languages, C#, Visual C++, scripting languages, and otherappropriate developmenttools

  • Develop, implement, debug, test, andmaintainsoftware for industrial automation and manufacturing systems

  • Design SCADA systems, databases, database interfaces, and related software components

  • Create data analytics, reporting, and scripting solutions that support manufacturing operations

  • Support programming and site start-up of integrated packaging line and process systems

  • Contribute to system integration and automation projects for consumer products and other manufacturing industries

  • Collaborate with controls engineers, project teams, clients, and vendors to deliver coordinated technical solutions

  • Document software requirements, system configurations, testing results, and project deliverables

  • Build project management and team collaboration skills through hands-on client work

What You'll Bring

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, or a related technical degree

  • Academic project, internship, co-op, or entry-level experience with software development, industrial automation, control systems, databases, or related technical applications

  • Foundational knowledge of programming, debugging, data structures, databases, or software troubleshooting

  • Ability to organize and execute multiple project responsibilities simultaneously

  • Ability to travel for project requirements, including installation, start-up activities, client meetings, trainings, and industry events

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with industrial control software such as Wonderware, Rockwell, or Ignition, or familiarity with PLCs, HMIs, industrial networks, or .NET programming

  • Exposure to SCADA, MES, analytics, database, mobile, or virtualization technologies through coursework or projects

  • Coursework or project exposure to food and beverage, life science, industrial, or advanced technology manufacturing environments

Compensation

The approximate pay range for this position is$75,000-$90,000. Please note that the pay range provided is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Final compensation may vary based on factors including but not limited to background, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as geographic location of the position.


 

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work-therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions. Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.


 

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


Company:

Design Group

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