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Entry Level Plc Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amcor plc

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 ...

Steele Solutions

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 ...

Steele Solutions

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 ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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Controls Engineer (Entry Level)

Chicago, IL · On-site

$82K - $94K/yr

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 ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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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 ...

In-finite Search Solutions

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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 ...

Actalent

Controls Engineer

Holly Springs, NC

$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 ...

Wood Plc

Entry-Level Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is seeking an Entry-Level Energy Engineer (preferably mechanical) to join our dynamic team. Key Responsibilities: * Work on ...

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Entry Level Plc Programmer information

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

As of Jul 21, 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.
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Entry Level Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Plc Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% 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.
Finish Mill Shift Electrician - Columbus SDI

Finish Mill Shift Electrician - Columbus SDI

Steel Dynamics, Inc.

Columbus, MS • On-site

Other

Re-posted 14 days ago

Steel Dynamics rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

175th of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

SubsidiarySteel DynamicsResponsibilities
  • Perform electrical and electronic repair and periodic maintenance on equipment
  • Maintenance and repair of all electrical devices in the facility
  • Repair and optimization of drive control systems, PLC control systems and other closed loop industrial control systems
  • Identify, design, and implement changes/upgraded which will increase the productivity or reliability of the process
  • Understand the steel making process and integrate this knowledge with the knowledge of process control systems to improve productivity, quality, and reliability
  • Strong electrical knowledge of high and low voltage electrical systems, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, breakers and power distribution systems, motors, motor control equipment instrumentation, PLC's, and AC/DC drive systems
  • Computer knowledge, networking, and any programming experience a real plus
  • Candidates must have a large aptitude for learning and will be taught (by classroom/ or experience) the more complex skills of the industry such as PLC programming and drive systems if they show theoretical knowledge and high work ethics
  • Understanding of mathematics (geometry, trigonometry)
Qualifications

Required

  • Safety Oriented
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Strong willingness to learn
  • Shift work required
  • Willingness to work scheduled and non-scheduled overtime
  • Strong teamwork focus
  • Ability to work without direct supervision
  • Ability to multi-task & prioritize work assignments with production needs

Steel Dynamics, Inc., and all affiliated entities are equal opportunity employers. 

Employment Type: OTHER

What Steel Dynamics employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Steel Dynamics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Steel Dynamics is one of the largest and most diversified domestic steel producers and metals recyclers in the United States, with an estimated steelmaking and coating capacity of approximately 13 million tons, and facilities located throughout the United States and in Mexico. We operate using a circular manufacturing model, producing lower-carbon-emission, quality steel using electric arc furnace (EAF) technology with recycled ferrous scrap as the primary input. Our circular economy is powered by our three primary operating platforms: steel, metals recycling, and steel fabrication. Our steel operations produce steel products, including hot roll, cold roll, and coated sheet steel, structural steel beams and shapes, rail, engineered special-bar-quality steel, cold finished steel, merchant bar products, and specialty steel sections. Our metals recycling operations collect and process ferrous and nonferrous scrap from manufacturing and end-of-life items, such as automobiles, appliances, and machinery. This processed scrap is then sold to end-users for reuse, including our EAF steel mills, which produce new steel from the scrapped material. We sell a meaningful amount of steel to our own steel fabrication operations that in turn produce and sell structural steel joist and deck building systems to consumers.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Wayne, IN, US

Year founded

1993

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