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Plc Programming Jobs in Santa Maria, CA (NOW HIRING)

The Okonite Company

Electronic Technician

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$46.17/hr

PLC programming skills required. Min. Requirements: 3 to 5 years of related industrial experience. Associates Degree in either Electronics or Electrical Technology preferred. Must be able to work any ...

Delectus LLC

Electronic Technician

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$43.56/hr

Strong knowledge of PLC logic analysis and programming. * Familiarity with electrical controls, motors, relays, starters, contactors, and automation components. * Ability to interpret technical ...

Delectus LLC

Electronic Technician

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$43.56/hr

Strong knowledge of PLC logic analysis and programming. * Familiarity with electrical controls, motors, relays, starters, contactors, and automation components. * Ability to interpret technical ...

Acara Solutions

Launch Engineer EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Design, develop, and test controls, communications, human-machine interface, and PLC systems for ... Proficiency in programming/configuring PLCs and HMI systems across multiple platforms * Working ...

Firefly Aerospace

Launch Engineer, EGSE

Lompoc, CA · On-site

Design, develop, and test controls, communications, human-machine interface, and PLC systems for ... Proficiency in programming/configuring PLCs and HMI systems across multiple platforms * Experience ...

All JobsPlc Programming JobsPlc Programming Jobs in Santa Maria, CA

Plc Programming information

See Santa Maria, CA salary details

$41.5K

$82.7K

$114.8K

How much do plc programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for plc programming in Santa Maria, CA is $82,684.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,700.00 and $94,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is PLC programming?

PLC programming refers to creating and modifying the software that runs on Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). PLCs are specialized computers used to automate industrial processes, such as manufacturing lines or machinery. Programming a PLC involves using specific languages like ladder logic, structured text, or function block diagrams to control inputs and outputs based on the needs of the system. Skilled PLC programmers ensure equipment operates efficiently, safely, and reliably.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PLC programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PLC Programmer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, ladder logic, and automation systems, often supported by a degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with PLC platforms such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric, and experience using programming software and troubleshooting tools, are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and resolve issues efficiently. These skills are crucial for ensuring reliable automation processes, minimizing downtime, and delivering successful industrial control solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by PLC programmers when working on large-scale automation projects?

PLC Programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating diverse hardware and software platforms, troubleshooting unexpected system behaviors, and ensuring robust communication between devices. Managing project timelines while adapting to last-minute changes in client requirements can also be demanding. Effective collaboration with electrical engineers, machine operators, and project managers is essential to address these challenges and deliver reliable automation solutions.

What is the difference between Plc Programming vs Automation Technician?

AspectPlc ProgrammingAutomation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree or diploma in electrical, automation, or control systems; certifications in PLC programming are commonOften has similar technical certifications; may also hold electrical or instrumentation licenses
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involves programming, testing, and troubleshooting PLC systems in industrial settingsWorks on installing, maintaining, and repairing automation equipment, including PLCs, sensors, and control panels
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, process control, and automation industriesCommon in manufacturing, industrial plants, and facilities requiring automation maintenance

While both roles involve working with PLC systems, Plc Programming focuses on developing and coding control logic, whereas Automation Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation equipment. Both roles are essential in industrial automation environments and often collaborate to ensure system functionality.

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 ladder logic and industrial automation can command higher wages, especially in manufacturing and engineering environments.

Is plc programming a good career?

PLC programming is a specialized field involving designing and implementing control systems for industrial automation, often requiring knowledge of ladder logic and PLC hardware. It offers steady employment opportunities in manufacturing, automation, and engineering sectors, with potential for advancement and certification. Success in this career depends on technical skills, problem-solving ability, and ongoing learning of new automation technologies.

Is plc programming in high demand?

PLC programming is in high demand across manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors due to the need for efficient control systems. Skilled PLC programmers with knowledge of ladder logic, SCADA systems, and industrial protocols are sought after, especially as automation continues to grow globally.

What are popular job titles related to Plc Programming jobs in Santa Maria, CA?

For Plc Programming jobs in Santa Maria, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plc Programming jobs in Santa Maria, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Plc Programming jobs in Santa Maria, CA are:

What cities near Santa Maria, CA are hiring for Plc Programming jobs?

Cities near Santa Maria, CA with the most Plc Programming job openings:

Plc Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plc Programming job openings in Santa Maria, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 79% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,684 per year, or $39.8 per hour.

Electronic Technician

The Okonite Company

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$46.17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 24 days ago

The Okonite Company rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

The Okonite Company, an employee-owned Manufacturer of medium voltage wire and cable products has an immediate opening for an Industrial Maintenance Electronics Technician / Electrician in a fast-paced, 24/7 manufacturing support role. The successful candidate will have a proven ability to install, modify, troubleshoot and repair a wide variety of equipment and infrastructure in a manufacturing environment. Candidates must have basic electrical trade skills such as the ability to maintain and install simple electrical circuits, lighting, AC & DC motors and drives, machinery control circuits, building controls and power distribution. In addition, the candidate must have a demonstrated knowledge and experience with automation controls including Allen Bradley PLCs, HMI controls, process controllers, data exchange/communications equipment, analog and digital process devices and various sensors related to machine automation control. PLC programming skills required.

Min. Requirements: 3 to 5 years of related industrial experience. Associates Degree in either Electronics or Electrical Technology preferred. Must be able to work any shift of a 3 shift manufacturing facility but will be hired for 2nd or 3rd.

Company Description

The Okonite Company was founded in 1878, making it one of the original insulators of electrical wire and cable in the United States. Earliest customers included Samuel F.B. Morse for his telegraph network and Thomas A. Edison for the Pearl Street Generating Station, the nation's first, built in New York City in 1882.

In June 1976, Okonite became the largest company in the United States to be owned by its employees through an Employees' Stock Ownership Trust. As such, Okonite employees have a unique vested interest in the quality and service we provide.

Today, Okonite is headquartered in Ramsey NJ, approximately 30 miles northwest of New York City. At our six (6) manufacturing facilities, we make cables that range from 300V to 345kV insulated products that include Instrumentation, Power and Control, Medium Voltage, and High Voltage cables.

Okonite serves a multitude of markets including Electric Utility (Distribution, Transmission, and Generation including fossil and nuclear), Oil & Gas (refineries and production platforms), Chemical, Military bases, Railroad, Transit and Pulp & Paper. In addition, we provide cables to various other industrial customers in areas of Hospitals, Colleges & Universities, Water Treatment Plants and Data Centers. With today's focus on renewable energy, Okonite cables can be found at Wind Farms, Solar Farms, and Biofuel generating facilities.

What The Okonite Company employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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About Okonite

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Ramsey, NJ, US

Year founded

1878

Social media

Twitter

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