Flexible Plc Ladder Logic Programming Jobs in Virginia

PLC Programmer

Allen-Bradley Controls | Data Center Construction | Mission Critical Systems

Compensation: $90,000–$125,000 + Comprehensive Benefits Package

Project Type: Data Center Construction

Travel: Approximately 10%–40%

Department: Controls / Mission Critical Systems

Program the Controls. Protect the Uptime.

We are seeking an experienced PLC Programmer to develop, configure, integrate, and commission automation systems supporting mission-critical data center infrastructure.

This is a highly technical role for someone with strong Allen-Bradley PLC programming experience who understands how controls interact with electrical, mechanical, and building systems in environments where reliability is everything.

You will work closely with commissioning teams, electrical contractors, mechanical contractors, engineers, and data center operators to ensure automation systems perform safely, reliably, and exactly as designed.

What You’ll Get

• $90,000–$125,000 salary range
• Exposure to large-scale mission-critical data center projects
• Hands-on work with Allen-Bradley and Rockwell Automation platforms
• Opportunities to support complex electrical and mechanical systems
• Experience with commissioning and Integrated Systems Testing
• Career growth within controls, automation, and mission-critical construction
• Collaboration with experienced engineering and commissioning teams
• Diverse project environments with technically challenging systems

What You’ll Do

PLC Programming & Development

• Develop PLC programs using Studio 5000 Logix Designer
• Program and configure Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers
• Develop ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming
• Configure PLC I/O modules, remote I/O racks, and distributed control systems
• Maintain and troubleshoot PLC software throughout project execution
• Develop clear and organized program documentation

Mission Critical System Integration

Program and integrate automation systems supporting:

• Backup diesel generator systems
• Automatic Transfer Switches
• Uninterruptible Power Supply systems
• Electrical switchgear and power monitoring
• Chiller plants and cooling towers
• CRAH and CRAC systems
• Fuel monitoring systems
• Environmental monitoring systems
• Other critical data center infrastructure

Network & Communications

• Configure and troubleshoot EtherNet/IP networks
• Integrate PLC systems with HMI and SCADA platforms
• Develop and support FactoryTalk View applications
• Coordinate communication between PLCs, Building Management Systems, and Energy Management Systems
• Troubleshoot network, device, I/O, and communication issues
• Support redundant and fault-tolerant control architectures

Commissioning & Startup

• Support Factory Acceptance Testing
• Participate in Site Acceptance Testing
• Support Integrated Systems Testing for mission-critical environments
• Troubleshoot control systems during startup and commissioning
• Validate sequences of operation with commissioning agents and project teams
• Diagnose PLC logic, communication, hardware, and field-device issues
• Make programming adjustments based on field conditions and testing results

Documentation & Project Support

• Develop and maintain control narratives
• Create and update PLC program documentation
• Maintain I/O lists and network architecture diagrams
• Prepare as-built documentation
• Maintain software revision control
• Coordinate with electrical and mechanical contractors
• Work closely with commissioning teams and owner representatives
• Provide on-site technical support during installation, startup, and system integration

What We’re Looking For

• 3–7+ years of PLC programming experience
• Strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLC platforms
• Proficiency with ControlLogix and CompactLogix systems
• Strong experience with Studio 5000 Logix Designer
• Experience programming ladder logic and structured text
• HMI and SCADA development experience
• Knowledge of FactoryTalk View preferred
• Strong understanding of EtherNet/IP and industrial networking
• Experience with electrical control systems and power monitoring integration
• Experience supporting startup and commissioning activities
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with construction, engineering, and commissioning teams

Preferred Experience

• Data center construction or commissioning experience
• Mission-critical systems experience
• Power generation control systems
• UPS and electrical switchgear monitoring
• Building Management System integration
• Redundant control architectures such as N+1 or 2N
• Tier III or Tier IV data center commissioning
• Large-scale industrial automation or construction projects

Education

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Controls, or a related technical field preferred
• Equivalent industry experience will also be considered

Working Environment

This position will operate across a combination of office, construction site, and active data center environments.

Travel to project sites may range from approximately 10%–40%, and occasional off-hours work may be required during commissioning, startup, or Integrated Systems Testing.

This is an excellent opportunity for a controls professional who understands Allen-Bradley programming, enjoys solving complex automation problems, and wants to work on some of the most technically demanding projects in the construction industry.

Write the logic. Commission the system. Keep mission-critical infrastructure running.

Equal Opportunity Employer: M/W/Disability/Veterans