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Junior Plc Programming Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Sr Controls Engineer - Automation/PLC

Plymouth, MI · On-site

$35 - $48/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

Path programming * Integration with surrounding automation systems * Work in-shop during machine ... Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal programming standards and best practices ...

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Commerce, MI · On-site

$110K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee PLC, HMI, motion control, and industrial automation programming activities * Assist with ... Mentor junior engineers and help develop technical talent within the department * Support customer ...

Controls Engineering Supervisor

Novi, MI

$110K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Oversee PLC, HMI, motion control, and industrial automation programming activities * Assist with ... Mentor junior engineers and help develop technical talent within the department * Support customer ...

Panel Builder

Hudsonville, MI · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Provide guidance and training to junior team members. * Collaborate with engineering on design ... Familiarity with PLC programming and automation integration. * Experience in lean manufacturing and ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor and develop junior engineers through technical guidance, code reviews, and best practice ... Proven expertise in PLC programming, motion control, and system integration * Strong ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$93K - $122K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor and develop junior engineers through technical guidance, code reviews, and best practice ... Proven expertise in PLC programming, motion control, and system integration * Strong ...

Controls Engineer

Novi, MI · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Canton, MI · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Bloomfield Hills, MI

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Farmington Hills, MI

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

West Bloomfield, MI

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Commerce, MI · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Controls Engineer

Livonia, MI · On-site

$115K - $125K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Mentor junior engineers and support technical decision-making What We're Looking For * Strong experience as a Controls Engineer / Automation Engineer * Proficiency with PLC platforms (Rockwell ...

Control Engineer

Detroit, MI

$82K - $106K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Do you enjoy solving technical challenges and working with both programming and electrical ... You should be comfortable leading or supporting technical teams, mentoring junior engineers, and ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Plc Programming information

See Michigan salary details

$8

$23

$39

How much do junior plc programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plc programming in Michigan is $23.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $29.90 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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Junior Plc Programming job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,412 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Sr Controls Engineer - Automation/PLC

SAI SYSTEMS

Plymouth, MI • On-site

$35 - $48/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

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Job description

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Controls Engineer with deep expertise in industrial automation to join our team. In this role, you will serve as the technical lead for controls engineering activities on automation projects, owning all controls-related issues from design through commissioning.

The ideal candidate will work hands-on in a shop environment to program, configure, and troubleshoot automated machinery, support customer buyoffs, and travel to customer facilities for installation and startup activities. You will act as the primary technical point of contact for controls issues on assigned projects, driving resolution while keeping management informed of project status, risks, and technical challenges.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as the technical lead for all controls engineering activities on assigned projects
  • Identify, escalate, and resolve controls-related technical issues in a timely manner
  • Communicate project status, technical risks, and open issues clearly to management and project stakeholders
  • Design, develop, and program PLC-based control systems using:
    • Allen-Bradley (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)
    • Siemens (TIA Portal / Step 7)
  • Develop and maintain HMI applications for operator interfaces and system visualization
  • Program, configure, and commission Fanuc industrial robots including:
    • Robot setup
    • Path programming
    • Integration with surrounding automation systems
  • Work in-shop during machine build and pre-shipment phases to:
    • Program systems
    • Configure hardware
    • Troubleshoot controls issues
  • Support customer buyoffs and resolve punch-list items prior to shipment
  • Travel to customer facilities for:
    • Installation
    • Startup
    • Commissioning
    • Technical support
  • Perform system integration testing and troubleshoot hardware/software issues during commissioning and post-installation
  • Collaborate with project engineers, mechanical teams, electricians, and customers to define and implement controls requirements
  • Develop and maintain controls documentation including:
    • Functional specifications
    • I/O lists
    • Electrical schematics
    • Operator manuals
  • Provide remote and on-site technical support after system commissioning
  • Mentor junior engineers and contribute to internal programming standards and best practices

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, Systems Engineering, or equivalent experience
  • 3+ years of hands-on experience in industrial controls engineering
  • Required proficiency with both:
    Candidates without demonstrated experience in both platforms will not be considered.
    • Allen-Bradley PLC platforms (Studio 5000 / RSLogix)
    • Siemens PLC platforms (TIA Portal / Step 7)
  • Experience programming and commissioning Fanuc robots
  • ROBOGUIDE experience preferred
  • Strong HMI development experience using:
    • FactoryTalk View
    • WinCC
    • Or equivalent platforms
  • Experience with:
    • Vision systems
    • Servo and motion control systems
    • Safety system design including Safety PLCs, light curtains, and area scanners
  • Familiarity with industrial networking protocols including:
    • EtherNet/IP
    • Profinet
    • DeviceNet
  • Ability to read and interpret:
    • Electrical schematics
    • Panel layouts
    • Wiring diagrams
  • Proven ability to lead technical efforts and communicate effectively with management, customers, and project teams
  • Willingness and ability to travel to customer plant sites as required

Preferred Qualifications

  • Familiarity with SCADA systems and MES integration
  • Prior experience in:
    • Automotive manufacturing
    • Food & Beverage
    • Heavy industrial manufacturing
  • Experience with machine automation, robotic cells, and custom equipment integration

Work Environment

  • Hands-on shop environment with machine builds and testing activities
  • Travel required for installation, commissioning, and customer support
  • Combination of office, manufacturing floor, and customer site work

Compensation & Benefits

  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Comprehensive benefits package
  • Opportunities for career advancement and technical leadership
  • Collaborative engineering-focused work environment