1

Plc Developer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Service Engineer - Siemens PLC / Automation / Packaging Equipment/ Travel Location: Nationwide (U.S.-based) Pay: $35-45/hr + OT Schedule: Full-time | 80-90% travel Our client provides advanced ...

Fulltime only Must-haves: 7+ years of PLC programming experience, with strong focus on Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 / Structured Text Multi-axis motion control -- this is the core of the role Has worked with ...

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a ... In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems ...

Controls Engineer

Agoura Hills, CA · On-site

$89K - $115K/yr

Join a successful, growing, nationally recognized engineering and system integration firm as a ... In this role, you'll design, program, test, and commission PLC, SCADA, and HMI control systems ...

Project Engineer III

Burbank, CA

$105K - $138K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating businesses in 11 countries. Traded on the London Stock Exchange, Senior designs and manufactures high ...

Project Engineer III

Burbank, CA · On-site

$105K - $137K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating businesses in 11 countries. Traded on the London Stock Exchange, Senior designs and manufactures high ...

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating businesses in 11 countries. Traded on the London Stock Exchange, Senior designs and manufactures high ...

Project Engineer III

Burbank, CA

$105K - $138K/yr

Senior plc is an international, market-leading, engineering solutions provider with 19 operating businesses in 11 countries. Traded on the London Stock Exchange, Senior designs and manufactures high ...

Mid-Level Programmer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Performs routine PLC and HMI/SCADA programming assignments * Works according to clear- cut and complete specifications * Maintains and modifies routine programs, tests and documents modifications and ...

Mid-Level Programmer

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Performs routine PLC and HMI/SCADA programming assignments * Works according to clear- cut and complete specifications * Maintains and modifies routine programs, tests and documents modifications and ...

Showing results 41-60

Plc Developer information

See California salary details

$10

$51

$80

How much do plc developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plc developer in California is $51.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39.86 and $59.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by PLC developers when working on large-scale automation projects?

PLC Developers working on large-scale automation projects often face challenges such as integrating legacy equipment with modern control systems, ensuring reliable communication between diverse hardware, and minimizing downtime during system upgrades. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including electricians, mechanical engineers, and IT specialists—is essential to align project goals and troubleshoot issues efficiently. Additionally, managing tight project deadlines while maintaining rigorous safety and quality standards requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills.

What is a PLC developer?

A PLC Developer is a professional who designs, programs, tests, and maintains programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used to automate machinery and industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to create automated solutions in manufacturing, energy, transportation, and other industries. PLC Developers are skilled in programming languages such as ladder logic and are responsible for ensuring systems operate safely and efficiently. They often collaborate with engineers and technicians to optimize and troubleshoot automation systems.

What is the difference between Plc Developer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectPlc DeveloperAutomation Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, computer, or automation engineering; certifications in PLC programming (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley)Often holds a degree in electrical, mechanical, or systems engineering; certifications in automation systems and control software
Work EnvironmentPrimarily works in manufacturing plants, industrial facilities, or automation labs focusing on PLC programming and troubleshootingWorks across various industries including manufacturing, process control, and systems integration, often involving broader automation systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in industries with heavy automation needs like automotive, food processing, and pharmaceuticalsUsed in industries requiring complex automation solutions, including manufacturing, energy, and infrastructure projects

While both roles involve automation and control systems, Plc Developers focus mainly on programming and maintaining PLCs, whereas Automation Engineers design and oversee entire automation systems. The roles often overlap, but Plc Developers are more specialized in PLC programming tasks.

Are PLC developers in demand?

PLC developers are in demand due to the ongoing need for automation in manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors. Skills in ladder logic, programming, and familiarity with PLC hardware increase employability, especially as industries modernize and adopt Industry 4.0 technologies.

Do Plc developers make good money?

Plc developers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. They often require knowledge of programming languages like ladder logic and familiarity with automation tools, which can influence earning potential. Overall, the role offers solid compensation for skilled professionals in automation and control systems.

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

To thrive as a PLC Developer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering or automation, strong programming skills, and experience with control systems and industrial automation. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (like ladder logic), SCADA/HMI systems, and platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Mitsubishi is essential, along with relevant certifications (e.g., Siemens Certified Programmer). Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable automation solutions, minimize downtime, and support efficient collaboration with engineering and maintenance teams.
What cities in California are hiring for Plc Developer jobs? Cities in California with the most Plc Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Plc Developer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 18% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,893 per year, or $51.4 per hour.

Industrial Automation Engineer

LanceSoft Inc.

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to support the design, development, commissioning, and optimization of industrial automation systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Beckhoff PLCs, TwinCAT 3, Structured Text programming, and multi-axis motion control with the ability to troubleshoot and enhance existing PLC code.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, program, and maintain PLC applications using Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 and Structured Text.
  • Develop and optimize multi-axis motion control applications for automated manufacturing systems.
  • Commission, debug, troubleshoot, and enhance PLC-controlled equipment.
  • Analyze and improve existing PLC code, including legacy and inherited automation programs.
  • Support system integration, equipment testing, and production startup activities.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to improve automation performance and reliability.
  • Document automation logic, system changes, and engineering best practices.
  • Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to improve system uptime.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor''s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of PLC programming experience.
  • Strong expertise with Beckhoff PLCs and TwinCAT 3.
  • Extensive experience with Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming.
  • Strong background in multi-axis motion control systems.
  • Experience commissioning, debugging, troubleshooting, and supporting automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Ability to work with existing/legacy PLC code and implement enhancements.
  • Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work onsite in Cupertino, CA or San Diego, CA.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in consumer electronics or high-volume manufacturing.
  • Experience working with collaborative robots (Cobots).
  • Knowledge of PLC code version control, governance, and configuration management.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols and automation best practices

LanceSoft logo

About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

Social media