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Plc Developer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

PLC Programmer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

PLC Programmer Location: Sterling, VA area Company: HVAC/BAS Service Provider Description: This is an exciting direct hire opportunity to work with an established company dedicated to growth, safety ...

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Automation Engineer (Industrial Controls / PLC Systems) Location: Ashburn, VA (On-site) Employment Type: Full-Time | Direct Hire Compensation: Based on experience and current compensation About the ...

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Automation Engineer - Jr

Gambrills, MD · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Automation Engineer - Data Centers (SCADA / Ignition / PLC ) We are seeking a Controls / Automation Engineer with hands-on experience in PLC programming, SCADA development, and system integration to ...

Senior Control Engineer

Washington, DC · On-site

$109K - $144K/yr

In this role, you'll design and develop PLC and SCADA systems for gas plants, gate stations, compressor stations, and field facilities while collaborating with engineering and operations teams from ...

This role is ideal for a hands-on engineer with strong PLC/HMI programming experience who enjoys field work, troubleshooting complex systems, and traveling to customer sites throughout the U.S. and ...

Senior Control Engineer

Washington, DC

$109K - $144K/yr

In this role, you'll design and develop PLC and SCADA systems for gas plants, gate stations, compressor stations, and field facilities while collaborating with engineering and operations teams from ...

Be Seen First

LEAD SERVICE HVAC ENGINEER / CONTROLS SPECIALIST Charlotte, NC HVAC Controls | PLC Programming | Building Automation We are looking for an experienced Lead Service Engineer / Controls Specialist who ...

New

BAS Programmer

Sterling, VA · On-site

$68K - $93K/yr

Building Automation Systems (BAS) Programmer Introduction: At Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG), we are always seeking talented individuals to join our growing team. Our commitment to exceptional ...

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Plc Developer information

See Washington salary details

$11

$58

$92

How much do plc developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plc developer in Washington is $58.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45.72 and $67.79 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 Washington are hiring for Plc Developer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Plc Developer job openings:
Infographic showing various Plc Developer job openings in Washington 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 $122,674 per year, or $59 per hour.

PLC Programmer

Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sterling, VA • On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position: PLC Programmer
Location: Sterling, VA area
Company: HVAC/BAS Service Provider
Description: This is an exciting direct hire opportunity to work with an established company dedicated to growth, safety, and development. The PLC Programmer will support the programming, integration, and commissioning of industrial automation and control systems for large scale infrastructure projects. The ideal candidate will have experience with Allen Bradley PLCs, Studio 5000, ControlLogix, system troubleshooting, and startup/commissioning activities, along with a strong background in industrial controls, automation, or mission critical environments. This is an excellent opportunity to work on complex projects in a fast paced, technically driven setting.
Requirements:
-Must have a minimum of 3+ years experience PLC programming
-Experience supporting advanced construction or commissioning projects preferred.
-Mission critical project experience preferred
-Experience with industrial automation systems required
-Must be able to write and generate PLC Programs from scratch
-Must have experience with Allen Bradley PLCs
-Degree in Electrical, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Controls, or vocational school preferred
-HVAC Controls experience is a plus.
By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, Al-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Synerfac Technical Staffing and our contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undeliverable messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at www.synerfac.com/privacy/

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About Synerfac Technical Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since 1987, Synerfac has served three groups, Our Clients, Our Candidates and Our Staff. We treat all three with equal importance because we recognize the synergy of success when one group succeeds, We all succeed. Synerfac is in the business of providing opportunities and adding value. We strive to create extraordinary experiences. For our clients we provide staffing services that enable them to focus on their core competencies which will add value to their businesses. For our employees we provide permanent and temporary assignments that complement their job skills and experience while providing professional and financial rewards. For our staff –we provide careers that are balanced, uplifting and carry the highest rewards by continually improving our business process. Our goal is to enhance the lives and enterprises of all those we touch to make them better off for having known us.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Cherry Hill, NJ, US

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