The field of automation is rapidly expanding, and at its heart lies the crucial role of the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programmer. If you’re exploring career paths that offer both intellectual stimulation and financial rewards, you might be asking yourself, “Is Plc Programming A Good Career?” For those eager to design and implement sophisticated control systems across vital industries like oil, gas, and manufacturing, the answer is a resounding yes. A career as a PLC programmer not only presents opportunities to shape cutting-edge technology but also promises a comfortable lifestyle thanks to competitive salaries.
However, the path to becoming a PLC programmer might seem daunting, especially if you’re a recent graduate or someone transitioning careers with limited direct experience. You might wonder if PLC programmer roles, often requiring years of experience, are out of reach.
Let me assure you, this perceived obstacle is actually a stepping stone. The dedication to overcome this initial hurdle is what sets apart those who succeed in this field. Many individuals give up after facing initial rejections, settling for less fulfilling roles and abandoning their aspirations. But for someone like you, someone who recognizes the immense value and potential of a PLC programming career and is determined to break into the industry, the path to success is wide open and incredibly rewarding.
This is the very mindset that propelled me to my fulfilling career as an automation engineer and PLC programmer, even when I started with virtually no practical experience. Over the past seven years, I’ve had the privilege of designing and implementing control systems for major players in the oil, gas, petroleum, and steel sectors. Within just two years of my first role, I advanced to lead the technical department, collaborating with exceptionally talented PLC programmers and automation engineers globally, many of whom possessed extensive backgrounds in the field.
As my career progressed, I realized I could empower others to achieve similar success, regardless of their starting point. This realization sparked the creation of the RealPars platform. The RealPars YouTube channel, launched with the support of my colleagues, has become a leading resource for industrial automation training. We’ve also developed a comprehensive video library of practical PLC programming courses, recognized by automation experts as among the most effective and hands-on training programs available.
Like many entering this field, I encountered job postings that emphasized prior experience. However, my unwavering commitment to becoming a PLC programmer fueled my persistence. Having invested years in education, driven by a long-held dream, turning away was simply not an option.
Recently, I’ve received numerous inquiries about how to secure a job as an automation engineer or PLC programmer without prior experience. While I strive to respond to every question, my current schedule limitations make individual replies challenging. Therefore, I’ve decided to share my insights, both as someone who navigated the job search in this field and as an employer who now reviews resumes, conducts interviews, and hires PLC programmers for diverse projects.
So, let’s delve into key strategies to kickstart your PLC programming career and demonstrate why it’s an excellent career choice.
1. Elevate Your Skills Through Targeted Education
Is PLC programming a good career even if you lack direct experience? Absolutely. One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your commitment and readiness is through proactive education. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Instrument and Control Engineering, I realized that a degree alone wasn’t enough to stand out. Many graduates held similar qualifications, and some had even participated in coveted practical training programs during their studies.
Recognizing the need to differentiate myself, I strategically invested in specialized training courses, despite financial constraints. I prioritized courses directly relevant to my goal of becoming a PLC programmer. While many peers limited themselves to minimal or no extra training beyond their degree, I completed eight distinct courses encompassing PLC programming, WinCC and monitoring systems, and industrial communication protocols like Profibus and Ethernet. This extensive training immediately set me apart from other graduates.
Including these specialized training courses on my resume proved to be a game-changer. It signaled to potential employers that I was not just another graduate. They recognized that hiring me meant onboarding someone already equipped with the fundamental skills needed for a PLC programmer role, minimizing the need for extensive initial training. My proactive approach demonstrated a serious commitment to the profession.
From my current perspective as an employer, this principle remains strikingly relevant. The majority of resumes I review contain few, if any, relevant training courses. However, a resume showcasing seven or eight practical, targeted training courses significantly increases an applicant’s chances of being hired. This demonstrates not only the necessary skills but also a proactive dedication to a PLC programming career. Investing in yourself through targeted education speaks volumes to employers about your seriousness and commitment.
“Position yourself ahead of the competition by maximizing your relevant education and training.”
2. Master the Art of Self-Promotion
Why is PLC programming a good career? Because it’s in demand, and to capitalize on this demand, effective self-promotion is essential. Company leaders are constantly searching for individuals who can bring tangible value to their organizations. When they identify someone with the potential to be a productive and valuable asset, they are eager to bring them on board.
However, you must actively showcase your potential value. If employers are unaware of your capabilities, they cannot recognize you as a valuable addition to their team. It’s akin to having an exceptional product without any marketing – expecting customers to appear without any promotion is unrealistic. You need to develop the ability and willingness to effectively market yourself, demonstrating to employers how you can contribute to their company’s success. If you don’t advocate for yourself, who will?
LinkedIn stands out as a powerful platform for showcasing your skills and experience. Today, numerous international and local companies utilize LinkedIn extensively in their recruitment processes. Research indicates that professionals with well-crafted LinkedIn profiles experience greater job opportunities. If you are a professional in the PLC programming field and lack a strong LinkedIn presence, you are likely missing out on significant career prospects. Optimize your online presence to reflect your skills and career aspirations.
3. Embrace Dedication and Effort in Your Job Search
Is PLC programming a good career for those willing to put in the effort? Absolutely. Persistence and a strong work ethic are crucial in any job search, especially when breaking into a competitive field like PLC programming. When I was actively seeking my first role, my job search was a daily commitment, both online and offline. I diligently submitted my resume to every promising company that was hiring. Geographical limitations didn’t deter me; I applied to positions even if they were outside my immediate city. This often meant long bus journeys, sometimes six or seven hours, to attend interviews, as air travel was financially out of reach at the time.
The typical scenario involved a call from a company secretary expressing interest in my resume and inviting me for an interview the next day. My response was always an immediate “I’ll be there!” This was followed by an overnight bus trip to arrive in time for a brief interview, often lasting fifteen minutes or less.
Securing a job requires the courage and determination to go the extra mile. Surprisingly, some individuals don’t even complete online application forms, then wonder why their job search is unsuccessful. Excuses like “being too busy with my current job” or “other life commitments” are common. However, the reality is that there is always time to prioritize career advancement when it’s a genuine goal. Dedication and effort are key determinants of success in your job search.
“Be prepared to invest significant time and effort – pay the price – to land your desired PLC programming role.”
4. Offer Unique Value to Stand Out
Why is PLC programming a good career path to pursue strategically? Because you can leverage creative approaches to get your foot in the door. During my early job interviews, I proactively sought advice by asking, “Based on my resume and skills, what’s the most effective strategy for me to find a job?” This approach yielded invaluable insights. In one memorable interview, the CEO suggested, “Offer something that’s hard to refuse, perhaps propose working for free for six months.”
Initially, this idea seemed unconventional, but feeling I had explored many traditional approaches, I decided to try it. To my surprise, the company manager, a fair-minded individual, started paying me after just two months, recognizing the value of my contributions. Consider thinking outside the box. Don’t follow conventional approaches blindly. Brainstorm unique ways to demonstrate your value and make yourself an irresistible candidate.
5. Embrace Hands-On Experience from the Ground Up
Is PLC programming a good career even if your first role isn’t glamorous? Absolutely. Many young engineers mistakenly expect to immediately start in a purely design and programming role, assuming their degree entitles them to a desk job from day one. This expectation is often unrealistic and, in fact, missing out on practical, hands-on experience can be detrimental to long-term career growth. If your initial role involves practical tasks, such as physical work or field assignments, embrace these opportunities – they are incredibly valuable.
When I began my career as an automation engineer, my first eight months involved physically demanding work in challenging conditions. This ranged from wiring control panels at significant heights on cranes to running cables in factory basements. Looking back, these experiences were among the most formative of my career, profoundly shaping my understanding of control systems design and programming. Even now, in more senior roles, I occasionally engage in fieldwork when necessary.
My advice to aspiring PLC programmers is to not shy away from hands-on work. Don’t view it as beneath you or undesirable. Instead, recognize it as a crucial learning experience that will build a strong foundation for becoming a highly skilled and elite automation engineer. Embrace the practical aspects of the field; they are invaluable.
While numerous other tips could be shared, overwhelming you with excessive information is not the goal. Many online resources offer extensive lists of advice, but these can be difficult to remember and apply effectively.
The core message is this: to break into the automation industry without extensive prior experience, you must convincingly demonstrate to employers that you will bring value to their organization. Academic achievements are secondary to your ability to contribute meaningfully. Convince them that you are dedicated, willing to tackle challenging tasks, and eager to learn. From personal experience, this approach significantly increases your chances of getting hired.
Now, it’s your turn to take action and pursue that PLC programming career. I encourage you to share your successes and lessons learned from your interview experiences in the comments below. The RealPars team and I are eager to hear about your journey!
