Electrical PLC Programmer

Electrical PLC Programmers Play a Vital Role in Present-Day Manufacturing

If people from prior generations could somehow return to life today, they could not be faulted if they expressed healthy skepticism about the impact of computer technology on modern-day society. There would probably be considerable doubt about the capabilities to bank or shop without leaving home or to communicate in real time with people around the world instead of sending a hand-written letter.

Yet all of the above, and so much more, are indeed possible today, due to advancements in the development and use of computers; yes, as many of the current generation have undoubtedly said and/or heard many times, it is simply amazing what computers can do. What should not be overlooked in this euphoria, though, are the contributions made by the people who program the computers to deliver their remarkable services and outputs.

Within the industrial or manufacturing sectors, these individuals are commonly known as electrical PLC programmers. PLC is the initialism for programmable logic controller; this device is essentially a digital computer that has been specifically-designed to operate in reliable fashion under harsh conditions like strong vibrations, extreme temperatures, and high-moisture environments.

A job description for an electrical PLC programmer would possibly include several of the following duties/responsibilities:<

  • Create and read/understand logic and flow diagrams
  • Interact/collaborate with customers on design concepts
  • Design computer programs for simulation, testing, start-up
  • Programming of automation and control systems that use PLCs
  • Monitoring of operational systems and troubleshooting problems
  • Integrating electrical wiring with pneumatic or hydraulic systems
  • Preparing detailed project documentation and post-project reports

Many industries today have automated processes for which the equipment/machinery is controlled and/or operated by computers. For that reason, the employment potential for electrical PLC programmers is rather widespread; a selection of the various industries that require the knowledge and skills of electrical PLC programmers would consist of:

  • Aviation
  • Automotive
  • Medical Devices
  • Food Processing
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Waste Management

In terms of educational background, entry to the specialty of electrical PLC programming will require a post-secondary degree/diploma, usually in one of the following disciplines:

Electronics

Electrical Technician

Electrical Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Automation Technology

Electrical PLC programmers will primarily work in office-based settings, testing facilities, or repair facilities; consequently, proficiencies in oral and written communication, project management, problem solving, and teamwork/collaboration would be of benefit.

Essential PLC Programmer Skills

  • Design Skills
    This includes having good knowledge of program architecture principles and knowing how to draft blueprints or 3D drawings.
  • Engineering Knowledge
    PLC programmers are required to have a strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering concepts and principles to manage automated processes.
  • Mechanical Expertise
    PLC programmers need to be well-versed in the technical aspects to put together the processes physically.
  • Logical Reasoning
    In addition to using PLC programming languages such as ladder logic, the professionals are also aware of mathematical concepts and rational steps to prepare project flows.
  • Problem-Solving Skills
    As a PLC programmer, you must know how to identify the sources of a problem and determine the best solution accordingly to ensure the work is smooth and without disruptions.
  • Ability to Work Under Pressure
    This is a crucial skill required if you are a PLC Programmer because it will help you create cost-effective, efficient, and practical solutions for the organization.
  • Capacity to Work on Multiple Projects Simultaneously
    Being a multi-tasker is an essential skill for a PLC technician because they are responsible for system maintenance and other electrical applications even in a moment of crisis.

Tools of the Trade

  • PLC Programming Languages – These include sequential function charts, ladder logic, structured text, function block diagrams, and instruction lists.
  • Automation Equipment – You may use equipment from Allen-Bradley and other brands.
  • Automation Software – This includes Siemens TIA Portal, Sysmac Studio, Omron CX-Programmer, and more.

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Recruitment Agencies Are Often Retained to Find Qualified PLC Programmers

Whether an individual has intentions to begin or advance their career as an electrical PLC programmer, there can be some intense competition when such jobs become available in the manufacturing sector. The importance of this position to overall business operations also means that employers will demand high-quality individuals with the work experience and/or educational backgrounds to in turn contribute as expected/required.

To that end, these employers will often retain the services of an experienced recruiting agency, like Winters Technical Staffing, to manage the search and hiring processes for manufacturing jobs such as electrical PLC programming; these recruitment efforts can be preferred by employers who feel that concentrated searches of this nature may be highly time-consuming and non-cost-effective if handled by internal resources.

Under these circumstances, candidates looking for work as an electrical PLC programmer could benefit by synergizing their search efforts with an established recruitment agency like Winters Technical Staffing.  Furthermore, several types of manufacturing jobs might not be advertised publicly by the employers, thereby adding a degree of complexity for those seeking employment in this sector.

For over 40 years, the professionals from Winters Technical Staffing have helped resolve the staffing needs of employers in many areas of manufacturing; from the candidate’s perspective, the industry expertise and network of contacts established and maintained by the Winters Technical Staffing consultants offers a sound foundation from which to conduct targeted and more effective job searches.

Contact Winters Today

Are you looking for employment as an electrical PLC programmer? Call the recruiting professionals from Winters Technical Staffing today at 416-495-7422 to schedule a complimentary discussion on your career goals.