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Entry Level Plc Programming Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

... system programming and documentation. This is a professional position, requiring resource ... Entry Level Controls Engineers · Works within the scope definition and timing (due date ...

... system programming and documentation. This is a professional position, requiring resource ... Entry Level Controls Engineers · Works within the scope definition and timing (due date ...

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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 ...

Exhibit Design Engineer

Clawson, MI · On-site

$45 - $50/hr

Open to entry-level candidates with the right mindset and learning ability. We are willing to train ... R-CIM Automation for CNC programming. * KiCad for custom wiring diagrams and PCB development. * PLC ...

Open to entry-level candidates with the right mindset and learning ability. We are willing to train ... R-CIM Automation for CNC programming. * KiCad for custom wiring diagrams and PCB development. * PLC ...

Controls Engineer

Plymouth, MI

$79K - $102K/yr

... be validated. · Maintain PLC based control systems for manufacturing automation and ... We empower all our Associates - from entry-level to senior-level - with the skills and knowledge ...

Controls Engineer

Detroit, MI

$82K - $106K/yr

Lead and mentor co-ops, interns, entry level engineers. * Support plants and their controls teams ... Proficient in Allen Bradley PLC's and HMI's * Proficient in Fanuc Robot Programming and Roboguide

This entry-level position offers starting pay at $21.96 plus an off-shift premium, the position ... plc and its subsidiaries - GKN Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy, Dauch unites deep engineering ...

Entry Level Plc Programming information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$40.1K

$79.9K

$110.9K

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

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level plc programming in Detroit, MI is $79,854.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,300.00 and $91,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 concepts, programming logic, and automation systems, typically supported by a relevant associate's or bachelor's degree. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as Ladder Logic), industrial control systems, and software like Siemens STEP 7 or Rockwell RSLogix is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals stand out in this position. These skills ensure efficient troubleshooting, accurate system configuration, and successful collaboration on automation projects.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level PLC programmers in their first year on the job?

Entry-level PLC programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to different brands and models of PLCs, understanding complex control system documentation, and troubleshooting unexpected equipment behavior. Since the role involves both programming and hands-on work with industrial machinery, new hires must quickly learn how to interpret wiring diagrams, work safely on the plant floor, and communicate effectively with electricians, engineers, and maintenance teams. Overcoming these challenges typically involves a combination of on-the-job training, mentorship, and proactive learning.

What is the difference between Entry Level Plc Programming vs Entry Level Automation Technician?

AspectEntry Level Plc ProgrammingEntry Level Automation Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certification in PLC programming or automationTechnical diploma or certification in automation, electrical, or electronics
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, industrial facilities, control panelsIndustrial settings, maintenance areas, control rooms
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturers, automation companies, system integratorsFactories, production lines, maintenance providers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level PLC programming roles and skillsExploring roles related to industrial automation and maintenance

Entry Level Plc Programming focuses on developing skills in programming and troubleshooting PLC systems used in automation. In contrast, Entry Level Automation Technicians handle broader maintenance and repair tasks in industrial environments. Both roles often require technical certifications and work in manufacturing settings, but PLC programmers specialize in software logic, while technicians focus on hardware and system upkeep.

What is entry level PLC programming?

Entry level PLC programming involves creating, modifying, and troubleshooting basic programs for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), which are industrial computers used to automate machinery and processes. Individuals in this role typically write simple logic code, test equipment, and assist with the installation and maintenance of automated systems. Entry level PLC programmers often work under supervision and gradually take on more complex projects as they gain experience. This job requires foundational knowledge of PLC hardware, ladder logic, and common programming software such as RSLogix or TIA Portal.
What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programming jobs in Detroit, MI? The most popular types of Plc Programming jobs in Detroit, MI are:
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What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Entry Level Plc Programming jobs? Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Entry Level Plc Programming job openings:

Plc Controls Engineer

TREVA AUTOMATION

Lake Orion, MI • On-site

$20 - $50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary

Designs systems of electrical and fluid controls for a variety of applications including welders, robots, assembly, conveyance and transfer systems.  Applies expert/expertise knowledge, principles and techniques in engineering and computer science to generate required hardware design schematics and develop software system programming and documentation. 

This is a professional position, requiring resource management skills to direct and monitor tasks of others.  Must be capable of making autonomous decisions based on experience and project requirements.

Has specialized training either formal or through on-the-job work experience.

Has extensive technical knowledge gained through customer and project experience.

                                   

Duties and Responsibilities - Hardware

·         Understands customer specifications (corporate and plant), standards, and local and/or national electric codes for use in designing hardware schematics.

·         Constructs electrical and Fluid schematic packages by laying out I/O, designing magnetic circuits, fusing, control panel layouts, bills of material, and cable layouts. 

·         Performs the required sizing calculation for power, heat dissipation, wire sizing, fusing, etc.

·         Performs the required calculations for network layout and traffic analysis.

·         Researches, develops and customizes new hardware and software interfaces.

·         Coordinate and review with Technical Leaders, Automation Engineers, Sr. Controls Engineers, and colleagues to maintain consistency within a given project.

·         Checks hardware schematics detail work of Entry Level Controls Engineers

·         Works within the scope definition and timing (due date) requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities - Software

·         Understands customer specifications (corporate and plant) along with standards for use in designing software programs.

·         Researches, develops and customizes new hardware and software interfaces.

·         Modifies existing logic for ‘kit’ designs, and create logic utilizing existing references on simple to intermediate complexity systems.

·         Must be capable of developing Human Machine Interface (HMI) screens and interface from scratch.

·         Coordinate and review with Technical Leaders, Automation Engineers, Sr. Controls Engineers, and colleagues to maintain consistency within a given project.

·         Checks Logic and HMI work of Entry Level Controls Engineers

·         Works within the scope definition and timing (due date) requirements.

Knowledge & Skills

·         Computers — Knowledge of Windows, and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.) and a high degree of competence with AutoCAD / ePlan.  High degree of competence in HMIs along with Control and Safety PLCs (Allen Bradley, Siemen’s, Modicon, Dynex etc.) and associated application software.

·         Mathematics — Knowledge of basic arithmetic, base 2 (binary), base 16 (hexadecimal), base 8 (octal) and Real (floating point) numbering systems and their applications.  Knowledge of Word / Bit addressing schemes.  Knowledge of logical operators (i.e. AND, OR, NOT, XOR).

·         Mechanical — Knowledge of machines, tools, and print reading. An understanding of mechanical systems, their components, and the relationship of those systems to the controls design.

·         Originality — The ability to come up with unusual or clever ideas about a given topic or situation, or to develop creative ways to solve a problem.  This includes the ability to curb or limit creativity when customer requirements and /or commonality of designs dictates.

·         Writing - Ability to write technical documents and reports for use as reference by engineering and technical writers as well as documentation for the project.

·         Reading — Ability to read, analyze, and interpret customer specifications, electrical controls schematics, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.

·         Training — Ability to train and mentor other Controls Engineers.

·         Systems Analysis — Determining how a system or process should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

·         Systems Evaluation — Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

·         Troubleshooting — Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it.

·         Programming — Writing computer programs for various purposes.

Behavioral Competencies

·         Monitoring and Controlling Resources — Monitoring and directing resources on tasks for equipment design.

·         Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others — Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.

·         Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment — Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.

·         Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Material — Inspecting (field check) equipment in preparation for adding, removing, or modifying existing designs / equipment.

·         Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards — Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

·         Supervision — Capable of directing 5 or more individuals as required to accomplish projects assignments.  Also may be required to provide feedback to management in evaluations of these employees.

Key Performance Indicators & Measures

·         Meeting project schedules

·         Cost variance

·         Accuracy of project designs

 

Qualifications (Education, Training, Certification, Licenses, Experience)

 

·         Overall Experience — 5 years minimum previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience on projects in the Automotive sector (GM, Ford, FCA etc.) as well as Tier 1 suppliers (Dana, Magna, Tower etc.) is required for this position. Must master all competencies of Jr. and Mid-level Controls Engineers.

·         Job Training — Employees in this occupation usually need training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. 

·         Education — Bachelor’s degree in Electrical / Computer Engineering or Electronics Technology or a minimum of five years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Company Description

www.trevacorp.com