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Programmer Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Intern Systems Test Engineer assists in verifying that software or hardware systems meet requirements and specifications through various testing methods. Intern Test Engineers shall manage and ...

Test Engineer L1

Atwater, CA · On-site

$104K - $116K/yr

Systems Test Engineer shall be responsible for the evaluation of systems and or features, as well as developing and maintaining evaluation methods. Test Engineers shall manage and execute test ...

Nuclear Engineer

Mariposa, CA

$102K - $122K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

Nuclear Engineer

Waterford, CA

$104K - $125K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

Nuclear Engineer

Le Grand, CA

$117K - $141K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

Nuclear Engineer

Gustine, CA

$107K - $129K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

Nuclear Engineer

Jamestown, CA

$108K - $129K/yr

Nuclear Engineer (Naval Reactors Engineer) Category / Component: Officer • Active Overview Design, regulate, and oversee the Navy's nuclear propulsion program, including reactor design, fleet ...

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Programmer information

See Merced, CA salary details

$12

$41

$72

How much do programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for programmer in Merced, CA is $41.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.16 and $54.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can I make 100k as a software developer?

Software developers can earn $100,000 or more annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, or working in high-demand industries and locations. Factors such as geographic region, level of expertise, and certifications influence salary potential.

What are some common challenges programmers face when working on large, collaborative projects?

Programmers working on large, collaborative projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating code changes with team members, managing version control conflicts, and ensuring consistent coding standards across the project. Effective communication and using tools like Git are essential to prevent overlapping work or integration issues. Additionally, understanding the overall architecture and regularly attending team meetings can help programmers stay aligned with project goals and timelines.

What does a programmer do?

A programmer, sometimes called a software developer or coder, writes and tests code that enables computer programs and applications to function. They use various programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++ to create software solutions, fix bugs, and improve existing programs. Programmers also collaborate with other professionals, such as designers and project managers, to define requirements and ensure that the software meets user needs. Their work is essential in industries ranging from technology and finance to healthcare and entertainment.

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

To thrive as a Programmer, you need strong proficiency in programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving skills, and usually a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and common frameworks or libraries is also important. Attention to detail, effective communication, and adaptability help programmers collaborate and respond to evolving project requirements. These skills ensure code quality, efficient teamwork, and the ability to create robust software solutions in a constantly changing tech landscape.

What job does a programmer do?

A programmer writes, tests, and maintains computer software using programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++. They analyze user needs, develop code solutions, and troubleshoot issues to ensure software functions correctly. Programmers often work in teams and may use development tools like IDEs and version control systems.

What Do Programmers Do?

Programmers write computer software, websites, and mobile applications using computer languages to generate code. Some common programming languages include C#, Python, and Java. Programmers may work as web developers, software developers, analysts, app developers, computer scientists, and firmware developers, depending on their specialty. As a programmer, you take the take the software designs created by developers and translate them into computer language that tells the computer what to do. The language may be simple and straightforward or very complex, depending on what functions your client needs from the application. You are also responsible for updating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the software as necessary.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers or software architects, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and work in high-paying industries like technology or finance.

What kind of jobs can a programmer get?

Programmers can work in various roles such as software developers, web developers, mobile app developers, systems analysts, and database administrators. They often work in industries like technology, finance, healthcare, and gaming, using programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ and may require certifications or knowledge of development tools. Job environments can range from startups to large corporations, with opportunities for remote or on-site work.

What is the difference between Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in computer science or related field; coding certificationsSimilar credentials; often includes additional knowledge of software design and architecture
Work EnvironmentOften focused on coding and debugging within teams or projectsInvolves designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across tech companies, startups, and IT departmentsCommon in software firms, tech companies, and enterprise IT
Search & Comparison IntentPeople compare to understand coding roles and responsibilitiesBroader scope including development lifecycle and project management

While both Programmers and Software Developers write code, Programmers typically focus on coding and debugging specific tasks, whereas Software Developers are involved in designing, developing, and maintaining entire software applications. The roles often overlap, but Developers usually have a broader scope of responsibilities.

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Programmer jobs? Cities near Merced, CA with the most Programmer job openings:
Infographic showing various Programmer job openings in Merced, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 82% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,842 per year, or $41.8 per hour.
Automation Technician / Automation Engineer

Automation Technician / Automation Engineer

The Morning Star Company

Los Banos, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


Automation Technician / Automation Engineer
Location
Liberty Packing Company, LLC

About the Company
The Morning Star Company and its affiliates operate three tomato processing facilities in Central California, processing about 40% of the California processing tomato crop, in addition to tomato growing, transplanting, farming, harvesting and trucking operations.  The company employs approximately 500 year-round and over 3,000 seasonal colleagues, with annual sales of about $1 billion.
The Morning Star Company is the largest producer of bulk tomato ingredient products (tomato paste and diced tomatoes) in the world.  We also produce canned tomatoes, tomato products and specialty sauces in pouches for customers in the retail and food service markets.  The company is known worldwide for its innovation and integrity.
We are organizationally structured through a system we term Mission Focused Self-Management™.  Our company is operated by Colleagues without titles or an appointed hierarchy of authority.  Authority relative to other Colleagues’ activities is lateral, with our Mission as our guiding principle of action, and respect, influence and success built based on each Colleague’s integrity, competency, effort, persistence and straightforward persuasiveness.  Although we have grown significantly, we intend to maintain a culture of individual responsibility and Mission Focused Self-Management.
Role Summary
The Automation Technician / Automation Engineer is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and optimization of industrial automation systems across processing and packaging operations. This role supports reliable plant operation by maintaining PLC, HMI, instrumentation, and electrical control systems while driving continuous improvement, troubleshooting, and automation upgrades in a food and beverage manufacturing environment.
The position works closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, and external vendors to ensure safe, robust, and efficient automation systems that meet production, quality, and food safety requirements.
Key Responsibilities
  • Automation & Controls
    • Design, program, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC-based control systems, including logic, I/O, and communications
    • Develop and support HMI/SCADA systems for process monitoring and operator interaction
    • Diagnose and resolve automation-related downtime in processing and packaging equipment
    • Support startup, commissioning, and validation of new automation systems and equipment
    • Program and troubleshoot servo motors and drives
  • Electrical & Instrumentation
    • Troubleshoot electrical control panels, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, and field devices
    • Maintain and calibrate instrumentation (flow, pressure, temperature, level, pH, etc.)
    • Interpret and update electrical schematics, loop diagrams, and P&IDs
    • Ensure compliance with electrical codes, safety standards, and plant LOTO procedures
  • Continuous Improvement & Projects
    • Identify opportunities to improve OEE, reliability, and process consistency through automation
    • Support capital projects involving new equipment, line upgrades, or controls modernization
    • Standardize controls architectures, programming practices, and documentation
    • Collaborate with vendors, integrators, and internal engineering teams
  • Food & Beverage Manufacturing Support
    • Ensure automation systems support 
  • Food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
    • Participate in CIP/SIP automation, batching, and recipe management systems
    • Support traceability, alarms, data logging, and process controls critical to food production

Required Qualifications
  • Technical Skills
    • Strong working knowledge of PLC platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or equivalent)
    • Experience with HMI/SCADA development and troubleshooting
    • Solid understanding of industrial electrical systems (480V/240V/120V controls, MCCs, VFDs)
    • Experience with process instrumentation and field device integration
    • Ability to read and interpret electrical drawings, P&IDs, and control narratives
Experience
  • Automation Technician:
    • 3–5 years of hands-on industrial automation and controls experience
    • Automation Engineer:
    • 5+ years of automation/controls experience, including system design and project support
    • Preferred experience in food & beverage, CPG, or regulated manufacturing environments
Education (preferred, not mandatory depending on level)
  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Automation, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field
  • Equivalent hands-on experience will be considered in lieu of formal education

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with batching systems, recipe control, or continuous process automation
  • Familiarity with industrial networks (EtherNet/IP, Profibus, Profinet, Modbus, etc.)
  • Experience supporting capital projects and equipment commissioning
  • Understanding of GMP, HACCP, and food safety requirements
  • Ability to work independently in a fast-paced production environment

Soft Skills & Attributes
  • Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills
  • Ability to work cross-functionally with Operations, Maintenance, and Engineering
  • Clear communicator with operators, technicians, and management
  • Detail-oriented with strong documentation habits
  • Comfortable supporting off-hours troubleshooting during critical production periods

Compensation
The salary for this role is $180,000-$200,000, depending heavily upon qualifications.
Benefits
Morning Star offers a top-tier, comprehensive health plan, including medical, dental, and vision, and we pay the full monthly premiums for the Colleague and all eligible family members. The company also contributes to Colleagues' Health Savings Accounts. Year-round Colleagues are eligible to enroll in our 401K plan, with 4% match. 

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