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Junior Plc Programming Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

Fairfax, VA · Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

CDM Smith has been a leader in providing Automation design and programming services for over 30 ... Leading teams of more junior staff and provides direction and mentoring. Reviewing the work of ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer oversees the technical development of projects, mentoring junior ... Designing electrical and controls for new and existing fuel systems, as well as controls, e.g., PLC ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$120K - $135K/yr

The Senior Electrical Engineer oversees the technical development of projects, mentoring junior ... Designing electrical and controls for new and existing fuel systems, as well as controls, e.g., PLC ...

Sr Controls Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$110K - $130K/yr

Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior engineers and technicians, ensuring a high standard ... programming. * Proven expertise with major PLC platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider ...

TAC20-75 Sr. System Administrator

Reston, VA · On-site

$89K - $121K/yr

... and Junior System Administrator personnel. • Develops and maintains installation and ... Program Labor Category (PLC) ATP - Engineer V # of Hires Needed 2 Manager Williams, Rico Job ...

Showing results 21-40

Junior Plc Programming information

See Virginia salary details

$9

$24

$42

How much do junior plc programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plc programming in Virginia is $24.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $32.07 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 Virginia? The most popular types of Plc Programming jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Junior Plc Programming jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Junior Plc Programming job openings:
Infographic showing various Junior Plc Programming job openings in Virginia 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 $51,882 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Senior Automation and Controls Engineer

CDM Smith

Fairfax, VA • Hybrid

$106K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


CDM Smith rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

Company Overview

Check out this video and find out why our team loves to work here!
Join Us! CDM Smith – where amazing career journeys unfold.
Imagine a place committed to offering an unmatched employee experience. Where you work on projects that are meaningful to you. Where you play an active part in shaping your career journey. Where your co-workers are invested in you and your success. Where you are encouraged and supported to do your very best and given the tools and resources to do so. Where it’s a priority that the company takes good care of you and your family.
Our employees are the heart of our company. As an employer of choice, our goal is to provide a challenging, progressive and inclusive work environment which fosters personal leadership, career growth and development for every employee. We value passionate individuals who challenge the norm, deliver world-class solutions and bring diverse perspectives. Join our team, and together we will make a difference and change the world.


Job Description
CDM Smith is seeking a Senior Automation and Controls Engineer to join a great team of motivated Automation engineers in our Southeast and Mid-Atlantic regions! The successful candidate will be enthusiastic about building client relationships, mentoring junior level staff and delivering quality technical products on time and on budget. CDM Smith has been a leader in providing Automation design and programming services for over 30 years. The selected candidate will be an integral part of our team to assist with growing our business in collaboration with our automation client service leader in the Fairfax office. Join us! As a key member of the Automation team, you will contribute to CDM Smith's mission by: With high-level goals provided, creating basic to highly complex instrumentation, controls and related systems designs by developing Process and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) and giving direction to junior staff who utilize 3D and 4D drafting programs . Developing basic technical memoranda related to design issues for clients. Preparing preliminary design reports (PDRs) under limited supervision. Working with clients to define user requirements and preparing and documenting technical requirements to be used by programmers. Reviewing basic to highly complex component level shop drawings. Providing responses to requests for information (RFIs) under supervision. Performing witnessed factory testing (WFTs), field acceptance testing (FATs) and field inspections. With high-level goals provided, creating basic to highly complex designs that utilize human-machine interface (HMI)software, SCADA hardware (servers, workstations), network equipment (firewalls, routers, switches), programmable logic controllers (PLC), reporting software, historians and historical data collection, etc. Preparing level of effort estimates (LOEs). Network design, utilizing control system architecture diagrams/drawings to convey network requirements for CAT6 and Fiber Optic Ethernet connections to HMI/SCADA equipment, PLCs, power monitors, VFDs, networked field instruments, etc. Leading testing and startup team for basic to moderately complex instrumentation, controls and related systems independently with minimal supervision. Being responsible for testing and startup documentation completion and quality assurance filing. Independently developing basic to highly complex Operations & Maintenance manuals for designed instrumentation, controls and related systems. Independently developing systems training for end users. Developing training plans for all level of client's organization. Leading teams of more junior staff and provides direction and mentoring. Reviewing the work of junior staff as necessary. Providing feedback on client relationships and career issues. Leading the development of proposals and client presentations. Developing opportunities to expand contracts with existing clients. Performs other duties as required.#LI-LP2#LI-HYBRID
Skills & Abilities
Expert knowledge of instrumentation, controls and related systems designs. Excellent communication skills. Strong knowledge of Microsoft office suite of programs.
Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Technology or related discipline. Professional Engineering (PE) license. 10 years of related experience.Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with Water/Wastewater highly preferred. Experience within an Engineering and/or an integration firm highly preferred. Experience leading teams highly preferred.
Amount of Travel Required
20% - 40%
Driving Requirements
An appropriate and valid driver's license is required.
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as "CDM Smith") reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Pay Range Min
USD $115,253.00
Pay Range Max
USD $201,677.00
Additional Pay Range Information
CDM Smith is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. This pay range is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels for the geographic location assigned to the position. In addition to geographic location, a candidate's salary is determined by several other factors including, but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, relevant work experience, skills, required certifications, and education/training.
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Visa Sponsorship Available
No-We will not support sponsorship in the United States, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Talent Acquisition Team will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Chemical or Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Technology or related discipline. Professional Engineering (PE) license. 10 years of related experience.Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

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About CDM Smith

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

CDM Smith is a distinguished name in the engineering and construction industry, providing insightful consulting, designing, and execution services. Based in Boston, Massachusetts, US, this full-service engineering and construction firm was founded in 1947 and has been contributing to the national and global infrastructure ever since. Serving across diverse sectors like transportation, environment, water, energy, and facilities, they have built a reputation for excellence. The company firmly stands on its mission of delivering lasting, superior solutions to the world's complex challenges, thereby ensuring their clients create a transformative impact.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Cambridge, MA, US

Year founded

1947