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Junior Plc Programming Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Responsibilities include developing control system architecture, PLC and HMI programming, creating ... Opportunities to lead projects and mentor junior engineers * Collaborative team environment with ...

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Responsibilities include developing control system architecture, PLC and HMI programming, creating ... Opportunities to lead projects and mentor junior engineers * Collaborative team environment with ...

Controls Technician

Santa Clara, CA

$35.25 - $46.50/hr

The role also provides technical leadership, mentors junior engineers, and ensures high-quality, scalable automation solutions. Key Responsibilities: * Design and develop advanced PLC programs using ...

Jr. Field Service Engineer

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$36.06 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Junior Field Service Engineer, you will support the installation, maintenance, and ... PLC programming, Ethernet network/Serial communication. * Ability to read Schematics. * Ability to ...

Jr. Field Service Engineer

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$36.06 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Junior Field Service Engineer, you will support the installation, maintenance, and ... PLC programming, Ethernet network/Serial communication. * Ability to read Schematics. * Ability to ...

Jr. Field Service Engineer

Wilmington, CA · On-site

$36.06 - $40/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a Junior Field Service Engineer, you will support the installation, maintenance, and ... PLC programming, Ethernet network/Serial communication. * Ability to read Schematics. * Ability to ...

This is a technical leadership role: you'll set programming standards, mentor junior engineers, and architect scalable automation solutions across PLC, HMI, SCADA, and field devices. Pay: $64.33- $91 ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$134.40 - $249.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers; collaborate across Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams ... PLC programming: Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal or Mitsubishi GX Developer* Experience supporting ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers; collaborate across Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams ... PLC programming: Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal or Mitsubishi GX Developer * Experience supporting ...

Senior Automation/Controls Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$106K - $139K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers; collaborate across Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering teams ... PLC programming: Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal or Mitsubishi GX Developer * Experience supporting ...

Junior Mechanical Engineer

Santa Fe Springs, CA · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Halma plc is listed on the London Stock Exchange whose purpose is to grow a safer, cleaner ... We are looking for a detail-oriented and self-driven Mechanical Engineer to join our Engineering ...

Controls Engineer

Arbuckle, CA · On-site

$43.27 - $45.67/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description We are hiring a Junior Controls Engineer to join our small, hands-on controls and ... scada, plc programming, automation, allen-bradley, programming, electrical, troubleshooting ...

Controls Engineer

Woodland, CA · On-site

$43.27 - $45.67/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description We are hiring a Junior Controls Engineer to join our small, hands-on controls and ... scada, plc programming, automation, allen-bradley, programming, electrical, troubleshooting ...

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Showing results 1-20

Junior Plc Programming information

See California salary details

$10

$26

$45

How much do junior plc programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plc programming in California is $26.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.93 and $34.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a junior PLC programmer?

To thrive as a Junior PLC Programmer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, programming logic, and automation systems, often supported by a technical diploma or bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as ladder logic), HMI/SCADA systems, and experience with platforms like Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with engineers and troubleshoot automation issues. These competencies are crucial to ensure reliable industrial automation, minimize downtime, and support efficient production processes.

What is a junior PLC programmer?

Junior PLC Programmers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, and maintaining programmable logic controller (PLC) systems used to automate industrial processes. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, writing and troubleshooting PLC code, testing automation systems, and ensuring machinery operates efficiently. Junior PLC Programmers are often involved in learning industry-specific control systems, debugging issues, and updating existing programs based on production requirements. This role is ideal for those starting a career in industrial automation and control engineering.

What is the difference between Junior Plc Programming vs PLC Technician?

AspectJunior Plc ProgrammingPLC Technician
CredentialsBasic programming certifications, technical diplomaTechnical diploma or vocational training, certifications in PLC maintenance
Work EnvironmentOffice or industrial settings, focused on programming tasksIndustrial plants, maintenance and troubleshooting environments
Job FocusWriting and testing PLC programsInstalling, maintaining, and repairing PLC systems
Common Industry UsageManufacturing, automation companiesManufacturing, process control facilities

While both roles involve working with PLC systems, Junior Plc Programming primarily focuses on developing and testing PLC programs, whereas PLC Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of PLC hardware. The roles often overlap but differ in their core responsibilities and skill sets.

What are some common challenges faced by junior PLC programmers during their first year on the job?

Junior PLC Programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to various PLC platforms, understanding complex control systems, and troubleshooting hardware or software issues. They may also need to quickly learn how to interpret electrical schematics and communicate effectively with engineers, electricians, and production staff. Balancing hands-on programming tasks with documentation and safety protocols is another common hurdle. However, with mentorship and practical experience, most new programmers become proficient in navigating these challenges within the first year.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programming jobs in California?

The most popular types of Plc Programming jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Plc Programming jobs in California?

For Junior Plc Programming jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Junior Plc Programming jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Plc Programming jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Junior Plc Programming jobs?

Cities in California with the most Junior Plc Programming job openings:

Infographic showing various Junior Plc Programming job openings in California 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 $55,294 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Automationtechies

Agoura Hills, CA • On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a Controls Engineer supporting a variety of industrial automation projects. In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems while working directly with customers to deliver innovative automation solutions.

Responsibilities include developing control system architecture, PLC and HMI programming, creating electrical and instrumentation documentation, designing control panels, integrating industrial hardware and networks, troubleshooting automation systems, and supporting commissioning and startup activities. You'll also collaborate with clients throughout project execution and may lead projects while mentoring junior engineers.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering preferred
  • 5–15 years of controls engineering experience
  • Proficiency with PLC programming and SCADA/HMI platforms such as Rockwell Studio 5000, FactoryTalk View, Siemens TIA Portal, Ignition, AVEVA, or WinCC
  • Experience with industrial communication protocols including EtherNet/IP, Modbus, and Profibus
  • Strong troubleshooting, communication, and customer-facing skills
  • Ability to travel up to 25% domestically

Why Join This Company?

  • Employee-Owned
  • Work on diverse, challenging automation projects across multiple industries
  • Opportunities to lead projects and mentor junior engineers
  • Collaborative team environment with strong opportunities for professional growth and career advancement

To comply with some state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided. The range given is broad and should be considered as a guideline only. Our client will consider a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, the salaries of current employees in similar roles, and other factors when extending an offer.