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Permanent Plc Automation Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Permanent Plc Automation information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$40.5K

$117.1K

$178.2K

How much do permanent plc automation jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for permanent plc automation in Santa Rosa, CA is $117,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,600.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a permanent PLC automation job?

Permanent PLC Automation jobs involve the installation, programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) on a long-term or full-time basis. Professionals in these roles work with automated machinery and control systems in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and food processing. They ensure that automated systems operate efficiently and safely, often working as part of a larger engineering or maintenance team. These positions require strong technical knowledge of PLCs, electrical systems, and sometimes software development skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC automation engineer?

To thrive as a PLC Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and programming logic controllers (PLCs), often supported by a relevant engineering degree or technical certification. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as Ladder Logic), SCADA systems, and automation hardware from brands like Siemens or Allen-Bradley is crucial. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for troubleshooting and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automated industrial processes, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in permanent PLC automation roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Permanent PLC Automation roles often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, troubleshooting complex control logic, and keeping up with evolving industry standards. These challenges can be addressed by staying updated with the latest PLC programming languages, participating in ongoing training, and collaborating closely with cross-functional teams like maintenance, IT, and engineering. Building strong communication skills and maintaining thorough documentation can also help streamline troubleshooting and ensure smooth project implementation.

What is the difference between Permanent Plc Automation vs PLC Technician?

AspectPermanent Plc AutomationPLC Technician
CertificationsPLC programming, automation certificationsPLC programming, troubleshooting certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and integration of automation systemsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of PLC systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, process control, automation projects

Permanent Plc Automation professionals focus on designing and implementing automation systems, while PLC Technicians primarily handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. Both roles require similar certifications and work in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and focus.

What are popular job titles related to Permanent Plc Automation jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

For Permanent Plc Automation jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Permanent Plc Automation jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Permanent Plc Automation jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Permanent Plc Automation jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Permanent Plc Automation job openings:

Infographic showing various Permanent Plc Automation job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,125 per year, or $56.3 per hour.

Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technician

Viavi Solutions

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Provide electrical and electronic support for manufacturing equipment and systems, including off-hours support.

  • Assist and lead in troubleshooting, problem analysis, data collection, and training on complex manufacturing equipment.

  • Perform installation, maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair of spectrophotometers and related optical measurement equipment.


Job description

Summary:
VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications.
We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company - to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Position Summary
VIAVI Solutions manufactures advanced optical thin-film and pigment coating products in a 24/7 production environment in Santa Rosa, CA, with additional sites in China and Arizona. This Senior Electrical/Electronic Technician position balances two priorities: keeping manufacturing operations equipment running, and supporting new capital project work - machine installations, system upgrades, and next-generation automation platforms.
Key Responsibilities
  • Provide Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technician support for manufacturing equipment and systems, including some off-hours support.
  • Assist and lead in troubleshooting, problem analysis, data collection, and training on complex manufacturing equipment.
  • Perform installation, maintenance, calibration, troubleshooting, and repair of spectrophotometers and related optical measurement equipment.
  • Troubleshoot PLC-controlled manufacturing systems (Siemens Step 7 / TIA Portal, Mitsubishi GX Developer), including ladder logic analysis.
  • Calibrate analytical and production equipment in accordance with quality standards and documented procedures.
  • Assist with and manage equipment installation, qualification, commissioning, and acceptance testing.
  • Diagnose electrical, mechanical, vacuum system, optical, and control system failures using standard test and measurement equipment.
  • Ensure compliance with safety procedures related to high-voltage systems, vacuum systems, compressed gases, chemicals, and cleanroom operations.
  • Provide detailed, up-to-date documentation of electrical systems, including schematics, assemblies, BOMs, and CAD documentation.
  • Some limited travel may be required to support Manufacturing Operations

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:
Required Qualifications
  • Associate degree in Electrical/Electronic Technology or equivalent (required).
  • Minimum of eight years of experience as an Electrical/Electronic Technician with a high degree of autonomy.
  • Strong background in circuit theory, with the ability to troubleshoot a wide range of systems, equipment controls, and power circuits.
  • Experience supporting automation in 24/7 or continuous production environments.
  • Able to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Strong organizational and communication skills to maintain effectiveness and efficiency.
  • Must be U.S. Persons as defined by ITAR. ITAR defines a U.S. Person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. "Green Card Holder"), Political Asylee, or Refugee.

Skills & Knowledge
  • Ability to interpret electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic schematics, mechanical drawings, wiring diagrams, P&IDs, and technical manuals, with systematic problem-solving analysis.
  • Familiarity with PLCs, including ladder logic for troubleshooting.
  • Knowledge of electrical safety concepts related to NFPA 70E and Cal-OSHA.
  • Knowledge of LabVIEW, Wonderware System Platform, and Windows administration.
  • Experience troubleshooting and repairing spectrophotometers, optical instruments, or laboratory analytical equipment. Familiarity with metrology equipment such as Agilent, Perkin Elmer, Bruker, and Shimadzu UV-Vis, NIR, and FTIR
  • Hands-on experience maintaining vacuum coating equipment, vacuum pumps, deposition systems, and process controls.
  • Working knowledge of vacuum technology, pressure measurement, leak detection, and vacuum system diagnostics.

If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.
VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer - minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.
Job Posting Pay Range:
39
to
72
Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.