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Plc Programmer Jobs in Portland, ME (NOW HIRING)

Vantage Point Recruiting

Controls Engineer

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

Experience with Control Systems, including PLC hardware and programming * Experience with industrial controls and electrical (AC and DC power) * CAD software familiarity * Demonstrated results in ...

Actalent

Controls/Automation Engineer

Westbrook, ME

$80K - $100K/yr

Serve as the main controls programmer for automation projects. * Support project schedules ... Strong PLC programming skills, including ladder logic, with knowledge of structured text or ...

Fiber Materials

Controls Engineer

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Experience with Control Systems, including PLC hardware and programming * Experience with industrial controls and electrical (AC and DC power) * CAD software familiarity and proficiency

Fiber Materials

Composites Engineer

Biddeford, ME · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

PLC programming experience preferred * Experienced in CAD (Solidworks, Abaqus) * Experienced with GD&T and engineering drawings What you'll get from us: * 16 ETO days * 12 paid holidays (including ...

Wood Plc

Water Resources Engineer

Portland, ME · Remote

$80K - $110K/yr

Overview / Responsibilities Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions is currently seeking Water Resources Engineers with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program ...

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All JobsPlc Programmer JobsPlc Programmer Jobs in Portland, ME

Plc Programmer information

See Portland, ME salary details

$41.4K

$82.5K

$114.6K

How much do plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc programmer in Portland, ME is $82,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,600.00 and $94,600.00 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.

More about Plc Programmer jobs
What job categories do people searching Plc Programmer jobs in Portland, ME look for? The top searched job categories for Plc Programmer jobs in Portland, ME are:
Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Programmer job openings in Portland, ME as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,529 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Vantage Point Recruiting

Biddeford, ME • On-site

$87K - $113K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Our client's manufacturing facility has been a leading solutions provider of high temperature materials for the aerospace, medical, space travel and defense industries.

We're seeking an energetic, organized, and driven Controls Engineer to join the Equipment Optimization Team! The Controls Engineer is responsible for supporting current production systems and design of future systems with target improvements in safety, quality, cost, uptime, and cycle time. In this role you will lead automation and control system integration from design of new systems to supporting existing production infrastructure. You will support all aspects of automation projects, make detailed plans to accomplish goals and direct the integration of technical activities to implement process improvements, equipment installation/modification, standardization and material system development. Successful candidates will achieve results in solving technical problems, designing new equipment, improving existing processes, and supporting customer focused programs. There will be opportunities to get hands-on experience in a wide range of development and engineering disciplines.


Job Responsibilities

  • Design, improve, document, and troubleshoot custom built automation systems
  • Develop, implement, and sustain policies and procedures for the technical work performed in a growing production facility
  • Lead integration of new systems and automation equipment
  • Identify, design, implement, test, and document code and control improvements in assigned areas of responsibility using Lean and Six Sigma tools
  • Execute technical assignments with ability to integrate systems adhering to strict schedule and cost considerations
  • Work with internal/external customers to develop and qualify process changes and provide technical services
  • Design and develop new equipment for future production systems
  • Ensure that health and safety policies are integrated early on and followed
  • Apply standards to projects to ensure compliance with certification requirements in plant applications
  • Work with customers to develop and qualify process changes and provide technical services
  • Collaborate with external designers, integrators and manufacturers
  • Support equipment commissioning and qualification

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Computer Science or Equivalent experience
  • Experience in automotive, food, or aerospace industry OR automation engineering experience in an industrial environment
  • Experience within high-rate automated production, industrial engineering systems, motion control systems, PLC programming
  • Experience with Control Systems, including PLC hardware and programming
  • Experience with industrial controls and electrical (AC and DC power)
  • CAD software familiarity
  • Demonstrated results in technical problem solving, product/process development, and supporting customer focused programs/services
  • Familiarity with Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC) principles
  • Familiarity with Lean manufacturing principles
  • Experience with industrial tools and equipment
  • Experience writing basic process procedures or instructions

Company offers competitive benefits and a 9x80 workweek (every other Friday off)