PLC Programmer & Automation Engineer - Custom Machinery

M Force Recruiting Partners; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

M Force Partners seeks an experienced PLC Programmer / Automation Engineer to design, program, integrate, and commission custom automated machinery and control systems. You’ll cover the full project lifecycle from programming and integration to startup, troubleshooting, and customer support.

The role requires 3–5 years in industrial automation, machine builds, and controls, with hands‑on work across Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or Keyence platforms and some travel to customer sites.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of experience in PLC programming, industrial automation, or controls engineering.
• Experience programming and troubleshooting Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Keyence PLCs.
• Experience supporting custom machine builds and automation integration projects.
• Basic understanding of HMI programming and controls interfaces.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics and control system documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills.
• Hands‑on experience with industrial automation equipment and machinery.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to customer locations.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States and pass background/drug checks.

Responsibilities

• Program, modify, troubleshoot, and commission PLC-based automation systems.
• Develop and support PLC programs on Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or Keyence platforms.
• Support the integration and startup of custom automated machinery and machine builds.
• Assist with integration of industrial and collaborative robotic systems.
• Install, debug, test, and commission automated equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical, controls, and automation issues independently and with project teams.
• Develop and modify HMI applications and operator interfaces.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, control panel drawings, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate with engineers throughout the machine build process.
• Provide technical support during customer installations, startups, and commissioning activities.
• Maintain project documentation and support schedules and deliverables.
• Travel occasionally to customer sites for installation and support.

Skills

PLC programming

Industrial automation

Troubleshooting

Customer service

Willingness to travel

Tools

Allen-Bradley PLCs

Siemens PLCs

Keyence PLCs

Job description

M Force Partners seeks an experienced PLC Programmer / Automation Engineer to design, program, integrate, and commission custom automated machinery and control systems. You’ll cover the full project lifecycle from programming and integration to startup, troubleshooting, and customer support.

The role requires 3–5 years in industrial automation, machine builds, and controls, with hands‑on work across Allen‑Bradley, Siemens, or Keyence platforms and some travel to customer sites.