ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Junior Plc Programming Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

All JobsPlc Programming JobsJunior Plc Programming JobsJunior Plc Programming Jobs in Portland, OR

Junior Plc Programming information

See Portland, OR salary details

$8

$28

$50

How much do junior plc programming jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for junior plc programming in Portland, OR is $28.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.36 and $35.19 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Plc Programming jobs in Portland, OR are:

What are popular job titles related to Junior Plc Programming jobs in Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Junior Plc Programming jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Junior Plc Programming jobs in Portland, OR are:

Junior Plc Programming jobs near you

Principal Applications Engineer (SiPh)

Formfactor

Beaverton, OR

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

FormFactor rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Forming Our Future together

FormFactor, Inc. (NASDAQ: FORM), is a leading provider of essential test and measurement technologies along the full semiconductor product life cycle - from characterization, modeling, reliability, and design de-bug, to qualification and production test. Semiconductor companies rely upon FormFactor's products and services to accelerate profitability by optimizing device performance and advancing yield knowledge. The company serves customers through its network of facilities in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Rooted in our core values - Focus on the Customer, Ownership & Accountability, Respectfully & Effectively Communicate, and Motivate & Develop People - we foster an environment where diverse perspectives are not only welcomed but celebrated. Everyone can make an impact here. Whether it's improving products, supporting customers, or positively influencing peers and the community, the contributions of our people matter.

Shift:

The regular hours for this position are day shift.

Job Description:

FormFactor is seeking a Principal Applications Engineer (Silicon Photonics - SiPh) to serve as a recognized technical expert in advanced semiconductor test and measurement solutions, with a primary focus on Silicon Photonics (SiPh) applications. This role will be part of the Systems Business Unit Center of Excellence (CoE), collaborating with a global team of applications experts to translate customer requirements into innovative product solutions while supporting strategic customer engagements worldwide.

The Principal Applications Engineer will lead application development activities, define technical requirements for new products, validate solutions through applications testing, and drive technical excellence throughout the product lifecycle. This role serves as a critical link between customers, Product Marketing, Engineering, Manufacturing, and Field Applications teams, ensuring FormFactor products address emerging market and technology needs.

This position is ideal for a highly experienced technical leader with deep expertise in semiconductor device characterization, optical test methodologies, and Silicon Photonics technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Serve as the subject matter expert for on-wafer semiconductor device measurements and Silicon Photonics (SiPh) test applications, providing technical leadership across the organization.

  • Represent the "voice of the customer" and translate customer requirements, technology roadmaps, and market trends into product requirements and development priorities.

  • Lead technical definition, application validation, and demonstration planning for new products throughout the Product Life Cycle (PLC) process.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with Engineering, Product Marketing, Manufacturing, and Global Sales organizations to develop innovative measurement solutions for advanced semiconductor applications.

  • Design, execute, and analyze complex application experiments to evaluate product performance and customer use cases.

  • Develop application methodologies, best practices, and technical documentation to support successful product deployment.

  • Create and deliver advanced technical training programs for Field Applications Engineers, Sales teams, customers, and business partners.

  • Develop training materials, hands-on demonstrations, workshops, and laboratory exercises for global deployment.

  • Support strategic customer engagements by providing high-level technical consultation, troubleshooting, and solution recommendations.

  • Partner with Field Applications Engineers and Sales teams to support key opportunities, technical evaluations, and customer demonstrations.

  • Lead and contribute to advanced research initiatives, technology pathfinding activities, and emerging application investigations.

  • Monitor industry trends, competitive technologies, and evolving measurement methodologies to maintain technical leadership.

  • Participate in customer visits, industry conferences, technical forums, and standards organizations to strengthen customer relationships and expand market knowledge.

  • Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance across multidisciplinary project teams.

Preferred Qualifications & Experiences:

  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Photonics, or a related field.

  • Experience in Applications Engineering, Field Applications Engineering, Technical Sales, or customer-facing technical support roles.

  • Knowledge of semiconductor wafer probing systems and automated test environments.

  • High Volume Manufacturing (HVM) experience within the semiconductor industry.

  • Understanding of semiconductor test methodologies, test automation, and advanced characterization techniques.

  • Experience with Silicon Photonics devices and technologies such as Waveguides, Optical transceivers, Photodiodes, VCSELs, Beam optics, and Integrated photonic circuits.

  • Familiarity with semiconductor process technologies and advanced packaging environments.

  • Understanding of product development and commercialization processes.

  • Additional language proficiency in German, Korean, or Mandarin Chinese is a plus.

Skills:

Analytical Problem Solving, Business Practices, Communication Presentations, Engaging Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Personal Productivity, Professional Responsibility, Statistical Data Analysis, Statistical Problem Solving, Troubleshooting Errors, Understanding of Requirements, Understanding of Technology

Education & Experience:

Minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or 3 years and a Master's degree; or a PhD without experience; or equivalent work| Required

Pay Range:

$94,100.00 - $123,480.00

Pay Range Explained:

This role in Beaverton, Oregon pays between $94,100.00 and $123,480.00 per year, depending on your experience, skills, and background. Pay may vary in other locations. We offer a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, a 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), and paid time off. You'll also be eligible for quarterly profit-sharing bonuses and flexible spending or savings accounts.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

FormFactor is an equal opportunity employer. FormFactor complies with all national, state, and local laws that seek to promote equal opportunities for any applicant or employee without regard to age, race, color, gender, gender identity/expression, national origin, sexual orientation, religion, disability, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, military service, or any other legally protected characteristics. These protections apply to all aspects of employment, including but not limited to, recruitment, hiring, training, promotions, and compensation.

For roles that are designated as remote-eligible, employees cannot be located in:AL, AK, AR, DE, GA, HI, IL, IA, KY, LA, ME, MD, MS, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, ND, OK, PA, RI, SC, SD, TN, WV, WI, WY. This list is continuously evolving and being updated, please check back with us if the state you live in is on the exclusion list. A role is remote-eligible only when it is listed as "Remote" in the job location.

What FormFactor employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply