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Plc Developer Jobs in Berkeley, CA (NOW HIRING)

Controls Hardware Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$94K - $122K/yr

Why This Role Matters As a Controls Hardware Engineer, you will be an instrumental part of ... Specify and integrate PLC, HMI, and communication hardware. Configure and commission VFDs, servo ...

Automation Engineer

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Familiarity with safety PLC concepts including redundancy, safety integrity levels, and fail-safe design. * Strong understanding of version control, debugging, testing, and software documentation ...

This includes defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, programming PLC and SCADA applications, configuring thin client server applications, configuring ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$90K - $130K/yr

This includes defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, programming PLC and SCADA applications, configuring thin client server applications, configuring ...

This includes defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, programming PLC and SCADA applications, configuring thin client server applications, configuring ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$92K - $119K/yr

Deliver process control systems including DCS/PLC/SCADA/HMI programming, hardware designs, network architecture design, instrumentation/electrical designs, check-out/start-up support, etc. * Learn ...

Associate Controls Engineer

Pleasanton, CA

$92K - $119K/yr

Deliver process control systems including DCS/PLC/SCADA/HMI programming, hardware designs, network architecture design, instrumentation/electrical designs, check-out/start-up support, etc. * Learn ...

Familiarity with safety PLC concepts including redundancy, safety integrity levels, and fail-safe design. * Strong understanding of version control, debugging, testing, and software documentation ...

Showing results 41-60

Plc Developer information

See Berkeley, CA salary details

$12

$63

$99

How much do plc developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plc developer in Berkeley, CA is $63.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.47 and $73.27 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 near Berkeley, CA are hiring for Plc Developer jobs? Cities near Berkeley, CA with the most Plc Developer job openings:

Controls Hardware Engineer

Pacific Fusion

San Leandro, CA • On-site

$94K - $122K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Why This Role Matters

As a Controls Hardware Engineer, you will be an instrumental part of interfacing between project teams and gathering controls oriented requirements. Primarily you will take those requirements and design significant parts of our main control system. This role requires an individual who has a passion for controls engineering, and would like to grow in hardware design and implementation.

What You'll Do
  • Requirements & System Definition
    • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams and system stakeholders to develop, document, and validate control system requirements
    • Translate functional and safety requirements into detailed control logic, hardware specifications, and test criteria
    • Participate in design and hazard reviews to ensure system requirements align with performance, safety, and reliability goals
  • Control System Design and Implementation
    • Develop control architectures for safety-critical and utility systems
    • Design electrical schematics, control panels, and wiring diagrams for 24VDC control and 480VAC drive power systems
    • Specify and integrate PLC, HMI, and communication hardware. Configure and commission VFDs, servo drives, and motion control systems
    • Implement and verify safety interlock and process control logic in accordance with SIS and NFPA standards
  • Software Development and Integration
    • Develop and test PLC programs using structured and modular programming practices
    • Conduct system-level integration testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning support
    • Work with instrumentation and field devices to ensure proper control and feedback integration
  • Compliance and Documentation
    • Ensure system designs comply with NFPA 70 (NEC), NFPA 70E, NFPA 79, and SIS/IEC 61511 standards
    • Develop technical documentation including I/O lists, control narratives, functional requirements, and validation test procedures
    • Support safety validation, risk assessments, and functional testing throughout the system lifecycle
  • Collaboration and Technical Leadership
    • Serve as a technical point of contact for controls-related
      aspects of multidisciplinary projects
    • Work closely with fabrication, installation, and operations teams
      to ensure design intent and performance goals are achieved
    • Contribute to continuous improvement of design methods,
      documentation standards, and controls best practices
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls Engineering, or
    related field
  • 5+ years of experience in industrial automation or control system
    design
  • Proficiency with PLC-based systems
  • Experience with VFDs, servo drives, and motion control systems
  • Familiarity with systems operating at 24VDC and 480VAC
  • Strong understanding of NFPA 70/70E/79 and functional safety (IEC
    61511) standards
  • Proven ability to develop system requirements and translate them into
    detailed design documentation
  • Industrial Panel/Cabinet design experience
Bonus Points For
  • Experience with safety PLCs and interlock logic design
  • Background in large scientific facilities, or other high-reliability
    environments
  • CAD experience, EPLAN experience is a significant plus!