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Plc Programmer Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Middleton, WI ยท On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Prepare Robot, PLC, Servo, HMI software from existing software libraries. * Confer with mechanical and electrical engineering personnel to prepare software modifications as required. * Interpret ...

Controls Engineer

Middleton, WI ยท On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Prepare Robot, PLC, Servo, HMI software from existing software libraries. * Confer with mechanical and electrical engineering personnel to prepare software modifications as required. * Interpret ...

Controls Engineer

Middleton, WI ยท On-site

$83K - $108K/yr

Prepare Robot, PLC, Servo, HMI software from existing software libraries. * Confer with mechanical and electrical engineering personnel to prepare software modifications as required. * Interpret ...

The ideal candidate will blend strong leadership skills with hands-on expertise in PLC programming, robotics, and automation systems. This role is integral in mentoring engineers, providing project ...

New

Software Engineering Manager

Windsor, WI ยท Hybrid

$135K - $160K/yr

Genus PLC has an exciting opportunity. We are looking for a Software Engineering Manager to lead a multi-domain software team building embedded firmware, HMI/SCADA systems, instrument applications ...

Software Engineering Manager

Windsor, WI ยท On-site +1

$135K - $160K/yr

Role Overview Genus PLC has an exciting opportunity. We are looking for a Software Engineering Manager to lead a multi-domain software team building embedded firmware, HMI/SCADA systems, instrument ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Windsor, WI ยท On-site

$69K - $85K/yr

This is a great opportunity for an earlycareer engineer looking to develop handson experience in a ... Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and ...

Software Engineering Manager

Windsor, WI ยท On-site +1

$135K - $160K/yr

Role Overview Genus PLC has an exciting opportunity. We are looking for a Software Engineering Manager to lead a multi-domain software team building embedded firmware, HMI/SCADA systems, instrument ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waunakee, WI ยท On-site

$69K - $85K/yr

This is a great opportunity for an earlycareer engineer looking to develop handson experience in a ... Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and ...

This is a great opportunity for an earlycareer engineer looking to develop handson experience in a ... Genus PLC has a presence in over 70 countries and a global workforce of over 3,000 employees and ...

Support PLC programming, automation integration, and instrumentation selection to optimize plant performance. * Troubleshoot electrical and control systems during commissioning and operation.

Senior Automation Engineer

Sun Prairie, WI ยท On-site

$101K - $132K/yr

Advanced degree in relevantfieldplus 5+yearsprofessional experience. * 5+ years in PLC programming ... troubleshooting, and modification, as well as HMI and control networks, SCADA systems, and motor ...

Prepare PLC, Servo, and HMI software from existing software libraries. * Confer with mechanical and electrical engineering personnel to prepare software modifications as required. * Interpret ...

Field Service Engineer

Middleton, WI ยท On-site +1

$40 - $52/hr

... Service Engineer. In this role, you'll support the installation, maintenance, and repair of ... Modify and troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLC and HMI programs for existing packaging equipment.

... Service Engineer. In this role, you'll support the installation, maintenance, and repair of ... Modify and troubleshoot Allen Bradley PLC and HMI programs for existing packaging equipment.

Preferred Qualifications: * 2+ years of PLC programming, troubleshooting, and HMI/control network design, along with SCADA systems and KPIs. * Hands-on experience with motor controls (VFDs, DC drives ...

Showing results 21-40

Plc Programmer information

See Madison, WI salary details

$40.8K

$81.3K

$112.9K

How much do plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc programmer in Madison, WI is $81,292.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $93,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC programmer?

To thrive as a PLC Programmer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and programming logic, often supported by a relevant degree or technical diploma. Familiarity with PLC programming languages (such as Ladder Logic), HMI/SCADA systems, and manufacturer-specific software like Siemens STEP 7 or Allen-Bradley RSLogix is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring reliable automation solutions, minimizing downtime, and facilitating smooth collaboration with engineering teams.

Is a PLC programmer in demand?

PLC programmers are in high demand across manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors due to the need for automation and control systems. Skilled professionals with knowledge of ladder logic, programming languages, and experience with PLC hardware are sought after, especially as industries modernize and upgrade existing systems.

What is the difference between Plc Programmer vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc ProgrammerAutomation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical engineering, automation, or related field; certifications in PLC programming are commonOften has technical diploma or associate degree; certifications in PLCs and control systems are beneficial
Work EnvironmentPrimarily office-based for programming; on-site for testing and commissioningPrimarily on-site, maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, process control, and automation industriesCommon in manufacturing, industrial maintenance, and plant operations

While both roles work with automation systems, Plc Programmers focus on developing and testing PLC software, whereas Automation Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation equipment on-site. The roles often collaborate but differ in focus and responsibilities.

Do PLC programmers make good money?

PLC programmers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Skilled programmers with certifications and knowledge of automation tools can command higher wages, especially in manufacturing, energy, and industrial sectors. Overall, the role offers solid earning potential for those with technical expertise in programmable logic controllers.

What are some common challenges a PLC programmer might face when working on industrial automation projects?

PLC Programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation systems with legacy equipment, troubleshooting unexpected machine behavior, and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. They also need to collaborate closely with electrical engineers, maintenance teams, and production staff to understand process requirements and resolve issues quickly. Adaptability and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as priorities can shift rapidly based on production demands.

What is a PLC programmer?

A PLC programmer oversees the programming of various machines functioning on programmable logic controller technology. PLC technology is a digital computer that controls electromagnetic processes, primarily in industrial equipment. As a PLC programmer, you are responsible for the programming and maintenance of these systems. Your duties include developing and programming new machines, reprograming existing machines, and diagnosing and repairing issues with PLC driven systems. You may work in various specialized industries, such as the medical, manufacturing, or agriculture fields. Your job is to create or update computerized machine systems so that the input, output, and control systems function optimally to meet the needs of your employer.

What are the most commonly searched types of Plc Programmer jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Plc Programmer jobs in Madison, WI are:

What are popular job titles related to Plc Programmer jobs in Madison, WI?

For Plc Programmer jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Plc Programmer jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Plc Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Plc Programmer job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,292 per year, or $39.1 per hour.

Automation Engineer

SCIENTIFIC PROTEIN MASTER

Waunakee, WI โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

JOB SUMMARY
Join our team at Scientific Protein Laboratories (SPL), a world leader in biosourced pharmaceuticals, located just outside of Madison, Wisconsin in Waunakee! SPL is an innovative biopharmaceutical leader with unique products and services supporting the pharmaceutical industry globally. For over 40 years, SPL specializes in the development and cGMP compliant manufacturing of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs).
The Automation Engineer is responsible for the development, maintenance, and troubleshooting of PLC and HMI programs for production and utility systems in a cGMP pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. This role requires meticulous attention to detail, strict adherence to programming standards (including ISA-88/S88 batch control standards), and thorough documentation practices to ensure compliance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11, data integrity requirements, and validation protocols. The Automation Engineer will focus primarily on Rockwell Automation platforms including ControlLogix, CompactLogix, PlantPAx, and FactoryTalk View SE applications. This position works cross-functionally with Production, Quality, and Engineering teams to optimize automated systems and advises on automation requirements for capital improvement projects.
Responsibilities include:
  • Develop, maintain, and troubleshoot PLC programs using Rockwell Automation ControlLogix and CompactLogix platforms in compliance with cGMP and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements
  • Design, program, and maintain HMI applications using Rockwell FactoryTalk View Site Edition (SE), ensuring strict adherence to data integrity principles (ALCOA+)
  • Program and maintain PlantPAx distributed control system applications following ISA-88 (S88) batch control standards and established programming conventions
  • Create and maintain accurate, revision-controlled program documentation including functional specifications, code comments, and change logs per pharmaceutical industry standards
  • Document all automation work activities, troubleshooting outcomes, and system modifications in the CMMS (Fiix) to maintain comprehensive equipment history records
  • Implement and validate control system modifications following established change control procedures and validation protocols (IQ/OQ/PQ)
  • Troubleshoot and resolve automation system issues in a timely manner to minimize production downtime while maintaining complete documentation of all actions taken
  • Collaborate with Production, Quality, and other departmental teams to identify, optimize, and resolve pain points with automated system operations
  • Support process validation activities by programming recipe-based batch control systems and ensuring audit trail functionality
  • Collaborate with Quality Assurance to ensure all automation changes meet regulatory requirements and pass internal/external audits
  • Advise Project Engineers on automation requirements for capital projects, including recommendations for large-scale improvements, PLC hardware upgrades, and HMI system enhancements
  • Maintain revision control of all PLC and HMI programs using established version control practices
  • Develop standardized programming templates and reusable code modules following S88 and internal programming standards to ensure consistency across production systems
  • Support maintenance technicians with troubleshooting guides and technical documentation for automated systems
  • Participate in root cause analysis for automation-related deviations and implement corrective actions with appropriate documentation

Additional Responsibilities
  • Support capital projects involving automation system installations and upgrades
  • Assist with network infrastructure maintenance for industrial control systems
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Job Requirements and Qualifications:
Education: Required- associate's degree in industrial Automation, Electronics Technology, Instrumentation, Computer Science, or related technical discipline
Preferred: Bachelor's degree in computer science, Engineering Technology, or related discipline
Experience: Required: 3+ years of hands-on PLC and HMI programming experience with Rockwell Automation platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk View SE)
Preferred: 5+ years in pharmaceutical, API, or FDA-regulated manufacturing environment
Highly Preferred: PlantPAx DCS programming and configuration experience
Technical Skills:
Required: Proficient in Rockwell Studio 5000/RSLogix 5000 for PLC programming (Ladder Logic, Structured Text, Function Block)
Proficient in FactoryTalk View Site Edition (SE) for HMI development
Understanding of industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet)
Experience documenting work activities and equipment history in a CMMS
Preferred: Experience with FactoryTalk Historian and FactoryTalk Batch
Knowledge of FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance and data integrity requirements (ALCOA+)
Highly Preferred: PlantPAx distributed control system programming and configuration
Experience following ISA-88 (S88) batch control programming standards
Compensation range: $70,000-$100,000; based on experience, skills and qualifications
WHY JOIN SPL?
Our employees are our success! We recruit motivated people, recognize their contributions, and support their development to reach their full potential.
Perks include: competitive compensation; excellent benefits package - including Medical, Dental and Vision on Day 1; Life and AD&D Insurance, and Short and Long-term Disability; Health and Flexible Saving Account options; Employee Assistance Program, generous vacation; paid Holidays; 401k; advancement opportunities; team-oriented environment; community involvement; company events and more!
SPL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, creed, disability, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, and any other status protected by applicable local, state or federal law.