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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$38.4K

$76.4K

$106.1K

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

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in Tucson, AZ is $76,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,400.00 and $87,600.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programmer jobs in Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in Tucson, AZ 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 $76,406 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer

Wood Plc

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Overview / Responsibilities

Overview

Wood has a career opportunity for an Entry Level Geotechnical Engineer working in either our Phoenix or Tucson offices. The successful candidate will provide support to Wood's project managers responsible for delivering geotechnical engineering projects to our clients.

This is a great opportunity to work with an established consulting firm that values its employee's enthusiasm and technical contributions. We are dedicated to developing the careers of our staff, providing the atmosphere to allow individuals to grow. We'd love you to join our team of friendly, hard-working, dedicated, and collaborative professionals. Our ideal candidate is seeking challenging work and is committed to quality.

Key Responsibilities

The ideal candidate will have an educational background in engineering fundamentals, with an emphasis on geotechnical/geological engineering; excellent interpersonal skills; written and verbal communication skills; and will be a proactive problem solver.  This position offers the opportunity to work with, learn from, and be mentored by senior engineering staff while executing the following roles/responsibilities:

  • Perform geotechnical field investigations and construction oversight.
  • Set up geotechnical investigations (i.e. driller acquisition, traffic control, permitting, utility locates, etc.)
  • Perform basic support and design engineering computations, including quantity calculations, foundation design, slope stability, etc. under the guidance of a senior engineer.
  • Design or redesign complex layouts and drawings from general written or verbal specifications from the project team.
  • Prepare geotechnical design reports under the guidance of a senior engineer.
  • Will travel to project sites in Arizona and possibly the western US. The job will be approximately 75% field work and 25% office work; and approximately 30% of the field work may require travel.
Skills / Qualifications
  • BS in Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, or related engineering degree required. MS degree in Geotechnical Engineering is preferred.
  • 0 - 5 years + relevant engineering experience.
  • EIT is required or the ability to obtain the EIT within 1 year of hire.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Word and Excel. AutoCAD experience is a plus.
  • Self-starter with good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to follow instructions, organize and prioritize work to meet scheduled deadlines.
  • Superior time management, planning and ability to interact with clients.
  • Work well in a team environment.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to project sites in AZ and the western US. Approximately 10-30% overnight travel.
  • Physical requirements may require lifting up to 40 pounds and traversing over rugged terrain.
  • Must pass drug test, background check, and must have a satisfactory driving record in accordance with the Company's driving (MVR) policy.
Company Overview

Wood is a global leader in engineering and consultancy across energy and the built environment, helping to unlock solutions to some of the world's most critical challenges. We provide consulting, projects and operations solutions in more than 60 countries, employing around 40,000 people. www.woodplc.com

Diversity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that recognises the value of a diverse workforce. All suitably qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective criteria and without regard to the following (which is a non-exhaustive list): race, colour, age, religion, gender, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or other characteristics in accordance with the relevant governing laws.

Employment Type: OTHER