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Plc Developer Jobs in Columbia, SC (NOW HIRING)

Prime Partners

PLC Programmer

Columbia, SC

$90K - $120K/hr

Seeking a talented PLC Programmer with a passion for developing innovative solutions in industrial automation. This role offers the opportunity to design and implement advanced PLC programs for ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC

$96K - $126K/yr

PLC Programming with one or more of Rockwell Studio5000, RSLogix5000/5/500, or Siemens Step 7 or TIA Portal * Ability to program in RLL, SFC and ST * HMI Programming using one or more of Rockwell ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

PLC Programming with one or more of Rockwell Studio5000, RSLogix5000/5/500, or Siemens Step 7 or TIA Portal * Ability to program in RLL, SFC and ST * HMI Programming using one or more of Rockwell ...

E Tech Group

Senior Automation Engineer

Columbia, SC · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

PLC Programming with one or more of Rockwell Studio5000, RSLogix5000/5/500, or Siemens Step 7 or TIA Portal * Ability to program in RLL, SFC and ST * HMI Programming using one or more of Rockwell ...

Carolina Power Systems

Senior Electrical Engineer

Sumter, SC · On-site

$94K - $123K/yr

Familiarity with PLC systems and industrial communication protocols * Strong problem-solving and technical communication skills * Ability to collaborate across engineering, production, and customer ...

IT8

Electrical Engineer - Automotive

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Collaborate closely with other departments, including Mechanical Engineering, PLC Programming, and Robotics, to ensure full integration of electrical systems. * Supervise the manufacturing and ...

IT8

Electrical Engineer - Automotive

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Collaborate closely with other departments, including Mechanical Engineering, PLC Programming, and Robotics, to ensure full integration of electrical systems. * Supervise the manufacturing and ...

IT8

Electrical Engineer - Automotive

Blythewood, SC · On-site

Collaborate closely with other departments, including Mechanical Engineering, PLC Programming, and Robotics, to ensure full integration of electrical systems. * Supervise the manufacturing and ...

Alpek Polyester USA

Controls Engineer

Gaston, SC · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Develop and apply DCS/PLC programming * Develop and apply HMI programming * All other duties as assigned Required Skills Required * B.S. degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering (or equivalent ...

Alpek Polyester

Controls Engineer Job - Gaston, SC

Gaston, SC · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Develop and apply DCS/PLC programming * Develop and apply HMI programming * All other duties as assigned Skills & Qualifications Required * B.S. degree in Electrical or Chemical Engineering (or ...

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All JobsPlc Developer JobsPlc Developer Jobs in Columbia, SC

Plc Developer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$9

$48

$75

How much do plc developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for plc developer in Columbia, SC is $48.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.36 and $55.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 systems, which can influence earning potential. Overall, PLC development is considered a well-paying field within industrial automation roles.

What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Plc Developer jobs?

Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Plc Developer job openings:

Plc Developer jobs near you

PLC Programmer

Prime Partners

Columbia, SC

$90K - $120K/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Seeking a talented PLC Programmer with a passion for developing innovative solutions in industrial automation. This role offers the opportunity to design and implement advanced PLC programs for mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems, work across diverse industries, and make a meaningful impact by streamlining operations and enhancing system efficiencies. Join a dynamic environment where your technical expertise and leadership skills will thrive.

PLC Programmer

Key Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with design engineers to develop system control strategies.
  • Develop Rockwell and Siemens PLC programs utilizing:
    • Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
    • Sequence of operation documentation.
    • Project plans and specifications.
    • Customer requirements and standards.
  • Integrate various communication protocols, including Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus, and BACnet.
  • Work closely with SCADA developers to implement Human-Machine Interface (HMI) integration and control via SCADA software.
  • Develop simulation, bench test, and factory acceptance test protocol documentation.
  • Conduct simulations, bench tests, factory witness tests, and on-site commissioning tests for each program.
  • Travel up to 30% to customer sites for deployment and post-deployment support activities.

Qualifications

Required:

  • 2+ years of experience with Rockwell and Siemens PLCs.
  • Understanding of Building Automation Systems (BAS) controls and process plant controls in various environments.
  • Ability to initiate and execute programming tasks independently or as part of a team, ensuring successful client delivery.
  • Proficiency in reading electrical and process control drawings, including P&IDs.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and process systems.
  • Good understanding of IT networks.
  • Experience with multiple communication protocols and gateway networking:
    • Modbus
    • Ethernet/IP
    • Profibus
    • BACnet

Preferred:

  • Bachelors degree in Systems Engineering, Controls Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or Computer Science.
  • Experience with Direct Digital Control (DDC), Tridium, or other BAS control systems.

Company-Provided Benefits:

  • Competitive pay, commensurate with experience.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) plan with company match.
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • Participation in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), providing you with an ownership stake in the company.

Why Work for Us?
We aren't looking for ordinary people. This is not an ordinary company. We are looking for curious people who are passionate about their work. We need innovators and detail-driven technicians, engineers, and project managers. We seek people who are ready to think and act like a business owner because we own the company.