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Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Programmer

Quick Facts

Median Salary$91,152
Most Common EducationBachelor's degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+11.01%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment

What They Do

A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Programmer programs and operates PLC systems used to automate processes in manufacturing and other industries. Installs systems with electronic controls for mechanical equipment. Monitors system operations and troubleshoots system problems.


Core Tasks:

  • Draft detail and assembly drawings of design components, circuitry or printed circuit boards, using computer-assisted equipment or standard drafting techniques and devices.
  • Draft working drawings, wiring diagrams, wiring connection specifications, or cross-sections of underground cables, as required for instructions to installation crew.
  • Assemble documentation packages and produce drawing sets to be checked by an engineer or an architect.
  • Review completed construction drawings and cost estimates for accuracy and conformity to standards and regulations.
  • Consult with engineers to discuss or interpret design concepts, or determine requirements of detailed working drawings.
  • Confer with engineering staff and other personnel to resolve problems.
  • Measure factors that affect installation and arrangement of equipment, such as distances to be spanned by wire and cable.
  • Design electrical systems, such as lighting systems.
  • Draw master sketches to scale showing relation of proposed installations to existing facilities and exact specifications and dimensions.
  • Review work orders or procedural manuals and confer with vendors or design staff to resolve problems or modify design.
  • Locate files relating to specified design project in database library, load program into computer, and record completed job data.
  • Examine electronic schematics and supporting documents to develop, compute, and verify specifications for drafting data, such as configuration of parts, dimensions, or tolerances.
  • Compare logic element configuration on display screen with engineering schematics and calculate figures to convert, redesign, or modify element.
  • Review blueprints to determine customer requirements and consult with assembler regarding schematics, wiring procedures, or conductor paths.
  • Study work order requests to determine type of service, such as lighting or power, demanded by installation.
  • Explain drawings to production or construction teams and provide adjustments, as necessary.
  • Reproduce working drawings on copy machines or trace drawings in ink.

What to expect as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Programmer

1Earn a Bachelor's degree

41% of people achieve this level of education.

3Land a job

233 openings for Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) Programmers

Career Progression

in United States (Nation)

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