PLC Programmer Salary in 2025

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programmers play a vital role in modern industrial automation. As industries increasingly rely on automated systems, the demand for skilled PLC professionals continues to grow in 2025. This guide explores the average PLC programmer salary, factors affecting compensation, job market trends, and how education and certifications can influence earnings.

What Is the Average PLC Programmer Salary in 2025?

As of 2025, the average PLC programmer salary in the United States is approximately $83,000 per year. However, salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, industry, and certifications.

Entry-level: $55,000 – $70,000
Mid-level: $70,000 – $90,000
Senior-level: $90,000 – $120,000
Lead or specialist roles: Up to $135,000+

Salary by Experience Level

Entry-Level (0–2 years)

Average Salary: $60,000–$70,000
Often involve basic ladder logic, troubleshooting, and working under supervision.
Most new hires come from a technical degree or trade school background.

Mid-Level (3–7 years)

Average Salary: $75,000–$90,000
Typically handle more complex programming, system integration, and onsite implementation.
May begin to lead small projects or mentor junior team members.

Senior-Level (8+ years)

Average Salary: $100,000–$120,000
These professionals often manage large automation systems, lead teams, and provide strategic input.
Involvement in system architecture and high-level troubleshooting is common.

Factors That Influence PLC Programmer Salary

1. Industry Sector

Manufacturing & Automotive: High demand, above-average pay
Pharmaceuticals: Specialized compliance knowledge leads to higher pay
Energy & Utilities: High complexity systems offer top-tier salaries

2. Location

Higher salaries are common in industrial hubs like:
- Texas (Oil & Gas)
- Michigan (Automotive)
- California (Tech and Advanced Manufacturing)

3. Certifications

Siemens, Allen-Bradley (Rockwell), Schneider Electric certifications are especially valued.
Professionals with these credentials can command 10–20% higher salaries.

4. Education Level

Associate or Bachelor’s degree in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechatronics
- Industrial Automation

Having a degree or formal training can significantly increase earning potential and job stability.

Job Market Trends for PLC Programmers in 2025

Automation Growth: With ongoing digital transformation, automation jobs are on the rise.
IIoT Integration: Industry 4.0 is driving demand for PLCs integrated with IoT sensors and cloud platforms.
Retirement Wave: Many experienced engineers are retiring, opening up senior roles.
Remote and Hybrid Roles: Some companies now allow remote diagnostics and programming, increasing job flexibility.

Benefits Beyond Salary

PLC programming careers also come with several non-monetary benefits:

Job Security: Automation is crucial, and skilled PLC experts remain in demand.
Travel Opportunities: Some roles include domestic and international travel for system installations.
Career Growth: Opportunities to grow into controls engineer, automation manager, or project lead.
Comprehensive Packages: Health insurance, retirement plans, and bonuses are standard in many companies.

Certifications That Impact Salary

If you’re aiming to maximize your earnings, consider these certifications:

Certified Automation Professional (CAP) – ISA
Siemens S7 Programming
Rockwell Automation/Allen-Bradley PLC Certifications
NI LabVIEW Certification (if working in test and measurement sectors)

These credentials not only improve technical skills but also boost your marketability and negotiating power.

Take-Home Pay for a $103K PLC Salary

For a gross salary of $103,000, here’s a rough breakdown of take-home pay in 2025 (assuming a single filer in the U.S.):

Federal and State Taxes: Approx. $22,000–$28,000
Take-Home Pay: Around $75,000–$81,000 annually, or $6,250–$6,750 monthly

This varies depending on tax brackets, benefits contributions, and location.

Conclusion

The PLC programmer role in 2025 remains one of the most promising careers in industrial automation. With salaries ranging from $60,000 to $130,000+, this field offers solid compensation, growth opportunities, and job security. By investing in the right education and certifications, professionals can maximize their earning potential and remain competitive in a growing job market.