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Plc Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Divcon Controls

Lead PLC Design Engineer

$104K - $138K/yr

The Lead PLC Design Engineer provides technical leadership and oversight for the design, documentation, and implementation of PLC-based control systems across multiple projects. This role is ...

Divcon Controls

Senior PLC Design Engineer

$110K - $143K/yr

The Senior PLC Design Engineer is responsible for the independent design, development, and execution of PLC-based control systems for industrial, mechanical, and building automation applications.

TECKNOMIC LLC

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$87K - $113K/yr

This Includes HMI Design, PLC Design, Safety PLC Design, Hardwire Layouts, Panel Layouts, Risk ... PLC programming experience (Rockwell, Mitsubishi and Siemens preferred) - Must Have * Electrical ...

Wood Plc

Design Engineer

Warren, MI

Duties may include and are not limited to PLC and HMI programming, network design, system commissioning, system support, internal/external training, and technical consultation. Areas of focus are ...

K&K Technical

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$50 - $55/hr

PLC Design & Programming * Create and modify PLC programs using: * Studio 5000 * RSLinx * IAB * MPE720 * PCwin * Memosoft * Simatic Step 7 * Support controls programming across Allen-Bradley, Siemens ...

Kaygen Inc

Controls Engineer

Lakewood, CA

$87K - $113K/yr

This Includes HMI Design, PLC Design, Safety PLC Design, Hardwire Layouts, Panel Layouts, Risk ... PLC programming experience (Rockwell, Mitsubishi and Siemens preferred) - Must Have * Electrical ...

New

Wood Plc

Senior Electrical Engineer

Kennesaw, GA

$99K - $129K/yr

... architectures, PLC design, developing control strategies are a plus. Field and construction ... The Electrical Engineer will be responsible for developing electrical engineering designs ...

Tecknomic LLC

Controls Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

The Controls Engineer will be responsible for the electrical design on mechanical/hydraulic power ... This Includes HMI Design, PLC Design, Safety PLC Design, Hardwire Layouts, Panel Layouts, Risk ...

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All JobsPlc Design Engineer Jobs

Plc Design Engineer information

See salary details

$21K

$97.7K

$139.5K

How much do plc design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc design engineer in the United States is $97,747.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are PLC Design Engineers?

PLC Design Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing, programming, and implementing Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) for industrial automation systems. They create control systems that automate machinery and processes in industries like manufacturing, automotive, and energy. Their responsibilities include developing electrical schematics, writing PLC code, troubleshooting systems, and ensuring that automation solutions meet safety and efficiency standards. PLC Design Engineers work closely with other engineers, technicians, and clients to deliver reliable and optimized automation solutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PLC Design Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as Ladder Logic or Structured Text), SCADA systems, and certifications like Siemens or Rockwell Automation are highly valued. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and resolve issues efficiently. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and optimization of automated control systems in industrial environments.

How much do PLC designers make?

PLC design engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior or specialized engineers with certifications and extensive skills can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $110,000. Compensation may also include benefits such as bonuses, overtime, and professional development opportunities.

What are some typical challenges faced by PLC Design Engineers when integrating new automation systems into existing production lines?

PLC Design Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, as older machinery may lack compatibility with modern PLCs and communication protocols. Ensuring minimal production downtime during installation and troubleshooting unforeseen issues with wiring or software logic are also common hurdles. Close collaboration with maintenance teams, machine operators, and sometimes vendors is necessary to achieve seamless integration and system reliability. Effective planning, thorough documentation, and clear communication are key to overcoming these challenges in a production environment.

What is the difference between Plc Design Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectPlc Design EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, electronics, or control engineering; PLC certifications are commonRequires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or control engineering; often holds certifications in automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning PLC systems for manufacturing, industrial, or process control environmentsDeveloping and implementing automation solutions across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily in manufacturing, process industries, and industrial automationBroader application including manufacturing, robotics, and systems integration

While both roles involve control systems, a Plc Design Engineer focuses specifically on designing and programming PLC systems, whereas an Automation Engineer has a broader scope, including integrating various automation technologies. The Plc Design Engineer is more specialized in PLC hardware and software design, making it ideal for those interested in control system development.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level positions often require advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of project management or technical expertise.

Will AI replace PLC programmer?

AI is unlikely to fully replace PLC programmers, as their role involves designing, programming, and troubleshooting complex automation systems that require human expertise. However, AI can assist with tasks like diagnostics, code optimization, and predictive maintenance, enhancing productivity and reducing manual effort. PLC programmers will need to adapt by developing skills in automation tools and AI integration to stay relevant.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, or certain senior software engineering roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, and compensation may include bonuses and stock options.
More about Plc Design Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Plc Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plc Design Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Plc Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,747 per year, or $47 per hour.
Lead PLC Design Engineer

Lead PLC Design Engineer

Divcon Controls

Remote

$104K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

About the role:
The Lead PLC Design Engineer provides technical leadership and oversight for the design, documentation, and implementation of PLC-based control systems across multiple projects. This role is responsible for guiding engineering teams, ensuring design consistency, and maintaining high standards of quality and execution.
Serving as a key liaison between engineering leadership and project teams, the Lead Engineer drives best practices, supports team development, and ensures alignment with company standards and project objectives. This position plays a critical role in advancing design capabilities, improving workflows, and delivering scalable, high-quality engineering solutions.
Key Responsibilities:
Technical Design & Project Execution
  • Lead the design and development of PLC-based control systems, including control panel layouts, wiring diagrams, schematics, and network architectures.
  • Develop complete PLC I/O architectures, point-to-point wiring diagrams, loop drawings, and device connection details.
  • Design and document industrial control panels, including power distribution, grounding, component layout, and enclosure configuration.
  • Develop system layouts using floor plans to integrate control panels, field devices, instrumentation, and network infrastructure.
  • Engineer industrial network architectures, including Ethernet/IP layouts, switch configurations, device addressing, and communication structures.
  • Translate mechanical, electrical, and process drawings into coordinated control system designs.
  • Prepare and review submittals, bills of material (BOMs), device schedules, and construction documentation.

Project Coordination & Technical Leadership
  • Assist management with workload planning, project assignments, and resource allocation.
  • Identify skill gaps and support development of training plans to enhance team capabilities.
  • Promote adoption of design standards, templates, and engineering best practices.
  • Lead design efforts for assigned projects, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, and technical requirements.
  • Coordinate with Project Managers, engineers, programmers, panel shops, and field teams to ensure successful execution.
  • Generate and respond to RFIs to resolve design clarifications.
  • Identify and resolve design conflicts, missing information, and coordination issues across disciplines.
  • Support commissioning, startup, and troubleshooting activities as needed.

Quality Standards & Continuous Improvement
  • Perform and lead QA/QC reviews of drawings, submittals, and as-built documentation.
  • Ensure compliance with company standards, CAD practices, and applicable codes (NEC, NFPA, UL 508A).
  • Mentor and provide technical guidance to entry-level and junior designers/engineers.
  • Contribute to development and refinement of design standards, templates, and workflows.
  • Maintain organized project documentation, revisions, and design records throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD or AutoCAD Electrical.
  • Expert-level understanding of PLC-based control systems, panel design, and industrial networks.
  • Strong knowledge of applicable codes and standards (NEC, NFPA, UL 508A).
  • Demonstrated leadership, mentoring, or supervisory experience.
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

Experience
  • 7+ years of experience in controls design, electrical design, or industrial automation.
  • Proven experience delivering complete control system design packages.
  • Experience coordinating across disciplines and supporting project execution.
  • Experience with commissioning, startup, or troubleshooting preferred.
  • Experience with Rockwell Automation / Allen-Bradley platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix).
  • Familiarity with Revit, Bluebeam, or other design/documentation tools.
  • Experience with industrial or mission-critical systems (HVAC, chiller plants, process systems, data centers).

Physical Requirements
  • Sit and/or stand for extended periods (typically 6-8 hours per day) while performing computer-based tasks and facility support tasks.
  • Use hands and fingers to operate standard office equipment, including computers, keyboards, mice, telephones, scanners and printers.
  • Occasionally stand, walk, bend, stoop, or reach to access filing cabinets, retrieve documents, or attend meetings.
  • Lift, carry, push, or pull light objects and materials weighing up to 20-25 pounds (e.g., boxes of files or office supplies).
  • Have sufficient vision (with or without correction) to read computer screens, printed documents, and small print; and sufficient hearing to communicate effectively by phone and in person.
  • Work in a typical indoor office environment with moderate noise levels from office equipment, conversations, and occasional interruptions.

About Us:
Headquartered in Dallas, Texas, Divcon delivers fully integrated automation solutions nationwide that optimize performance, energy efficiency, and reliability across HVAC, lighting, power monitoring, and mission-critical systems. Leveraging advanced technologies - including Allen-Bradley PLCs, Ignition SCADA, and Delta DDC systems - we combine deep technical expertise with field-tested execution to deliver precise, scalable, and high-performance solutions.

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