2

Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineering Technician

Erie, PA · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

... * Entry-Level experience in the following: * debugging and testing electro-mechanical systems and ... Providing PLC and drive support for plant equipment * Supporting the electrical design, schematics ...

Controls Engineer I

Chino, CA

$84K - $109K/yr

We are seeking a technically strong entry-level engineer who has basic programming knowledge and is ... Ability and willingness to learn PLC programming and industrial automation technologies

Controls Engineer II

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $104K/yr

Independently develop PLC code for standard transport conveyor systems and basic sortation ... Team Development & Mentorship  * Assist in peer reviews and provide feedback on entry-level ...

Controls Engineer II

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Independently develop PLC code for standard transport conveyor systems and basic sortation ... Team Development & Mentorship  * Assist in peer reviews and provide feedback on entry-level ...

Be Seen First

Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience This role will require 40-50%+ travel ... Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Distributed Control System (DCS), and/or Direct Digital ...

Be Seen First

Entry Level Controls Engineer

Toledo, OH · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

*Must be okay with travel Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience This is a ... Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Distributed Control System (DCS), and/or Direct Digital ...

Be Seen First

Entry Level Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

*Must be okay with travel Entry Level Position: College Graduate - 2 years experience This is a ... Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Distributed Control System (DCS), and/or Direct Digital ...

Controls Engineer

Holly Springs, NC · On-site

$39.42 - $50/hr

Job Title: Entry Level- Traveling-Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, commissions, and ... This role focuses on programmable logic controller (PLC) configuration, troubleshooting, and on ...

Job Title: Entry Level- Traveling-Controls Engineer The Controls Engineer designs, commissions, and ... This role focuses on programmable logic controller (PLC) configuration, troubleshooting, and on ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Plc Programmer information

See salary details

$40.5K

$80.7K

$112K

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programmer in the United States is $80,664.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $92,500.00 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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programmer jobs? The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,664 per year, or $38.8 per hour.
Automation Engineer (entry-level)

Automation Engineer (entry-level)

Brown and Caldwell

Honolulu, HI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Brown and Caldwell (BC), a leading environmental engineering firm, is currently seeking an entry-level Automation Engineer who has a drive for exploring technology and software to join our growing team. In this role, responsibilities will include developing industrial automation solutions for industrial and municipal projects, including programming of graphical user interfaces and industrial logic controllers, working with contractors to support live control system startups, developing supporting electrical and instrumentation design documentation. The role requires the ability to integrate and apply BC's service offerings and talent to help our clients solve their most challenging and interesting issues.
This is an exceptional opportunity for an Engineer to leverage their skills, do challenging and meaningful work, and protect the earth's resources at the same time. This position offers the opportunity for significant professional growth and the potential to collaborate with both local and national teams. If you are looking for an opportunity to work in the potable water, wastewater, infrastructure and environmental arena on both the public and private side, with the potential to gain new knowledge, skills, and relationships in a collaborative, innovative and supportive environment, let's talk.
This role is based out of our Honolulu office.
Responsibilities
  • Follow established procedures and guidelines for industrial control systems and operational technology design.
  • Assist in SCADA/Human Machine Interface (HMI) design, configuration and programming tasks.
  • Contribute to Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) System design, configuration, and programming activities.
  • Participate in control system commissioning and startup initiatives.
  • Contribute to control system (ICS/OT) architecture design and planning evaluation.
  • Provide support in understanding and interpreting P&IDs, specifications, control schematics and control strategies with clients.
  • Assist with networking tasks in the ICS/OT space.
  • Facilitate understanding of cybersecurity requirements related to ICS/OT systems.
  • Flexibility to adapt and execute various additional assignments based on evolving needs.

Preferred Requirements
  • Develop automation programming configurations for municipal, industrial, and federal clients.
  • Develop written control strategies to guide the programming development to be configured in the control system.
  • Develop, modify, test, and startup Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and Human Machine Interface (HMI) systems.
  • Develop configuration for industrial networks such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus/TCP.
  • Investigate and troubleshoot all aspects of industrial automation equipment for clients as needed.
  • Perform submittal reviews from contractors and system integrators to provide feedback on system configuration, construction approach, and alignment with client desires.
  • Prepare panel designs, wiring schematics, and network and control system architecture documentation.
  • Work and communicate effectively with other disciplines, task leaders, and project managers.
  • Produce effective and accurate written documents, reports, and technical memorandums.

Skills and Competencies
  • Basic knowledge in SCADA/Human Machine Interface (HMI) design, configuration, and programming.
  • Basic understanding of the fundamentals of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) System design, configuration, and programming.
  • Basic understanding of networking in the ICS/OT space.
  • Strong foundational understanding of cybersecurity requirements related to ICS/OT systems.

Experience
  • Typically requires a minimum of 0-2 years related work experience in Control System Integration and Design or related field.
  • Encouraged to certify in the SMS (Subject Matter Specialist) framework in the first six months of being in the role.

Preferred Experience
  • Able to maintain a primary local presence on Oahu, HI and at times required given the nature of the programming responsibilities travel away from the office in Honolulu throughout the state.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office tools, including Word, Excel, and Outlook and able to utilize these tools to communicate effectively and professionally
  • Comfortable adapting to new or unfamiliar technology platforms and systems.
  • Able to multi-task, is self-motivated, and able to work independently with a willingness to learn.
  • Able to effectively communicate both verbally and in written format in a team environment.

  • Exposure to real-time industrial control systems technologies, such as PLC's and HMI systems.
  • Familiarity with software development and coding practices, languages, or graphical user interfaces.
  • Exposure to Ethernet based networks, including hardware configuration such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
  • Exposure to industrial automation systems design of panels, wiring schematics, and network and control system architecture designs.
  • Familiarity with relational databases such as Microsoft SQL.
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Server configuration, services, or hardware.

Education
  • An associate degree in engineering or related field, or equivalent professional experience is required.

Preferred Education
  • M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or another relevant EAC/ABET accredited Engineering degree.

Salary Range: The anticipated starting pay range for this position is based on the employee's primary work location and may be more or less depending upon skills, experience, and education. These ranges may be modified in the future.
Location B: $78,000 - $106,000
You can view which BC location applies to you here. If you have any questions, please speak with your Recruiter.
Benefits and Other Compensation: We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee health, performance, and success which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time off and parental leave, paid holidays, 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer match, performance-based bonus eligibility, employee referral bonuses, tuition reimbursement, pet insurance and long-term care insurance. Click here to see our full list of benefits.
About Brown and Caldwell
Headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, Brown and Caldwell is a full-service environmental engineering and construction services firm with 50 offices and over 2,100 professionals across North America and the Pacific. For more than 75 years, we have created leading-edge environmental solutions for municipalities, private industry, and government agencies. We strive to be the company of choice-to our clients, who benefit from our passion for delivering exceptional quality, and to our employees, present and future, who share our commitment to client service, collaboration, and innovation. Join us, and you will find a home where you can do your best work, reach new levels of expertise, and enjoy exceptional development opportunities. For more information, visit www.brownandcaldwell.com
This position is subject to a pre-employment background check and a pre-employment drug test.
Notice to Third Party Agencies: Brown and Caldwell does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement and approved engagement request with Brown and Caldwell, Brown and Caldwell reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency.
Brown and Caldwell is proud to be an EEO/AAP Employer. Brown and Caldwell encourages protected veterans, individuals with disabilities, and applicants from all backgrounds to apply. Brown and Caldwell ensures nondiscrimination in all programs and activities in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act.
#Hybrid
#entrylevel
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.