PLC Programmer – Allen-Bradley Controls
Location: Sterling, VA
Salary Range: $90,000–$125,000
Job Type: Full-Time
Project Focus: Data Center Construction | Mission Critical Systems
Travel: Approximately 10%–40%
Department: Controls / Mission Critical Systems
We are seeking an experienced PLC Programmer to develop, configure, integrate, troubleshoot, and commission automation and control systems supporting mission-critical data center infrastructure.
This highly technical position requires strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley PLCs, ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000, HMI/SCADA systems, and industrial networking.
The PLC Programmer will work closely with commissioning teams, electrical and mechanical contractors, engineers, project management, and data center representatives to ensure automation systems operate safely, reliably, and according to design.
Key ResponsibilitiesPLC Programming & Development
- Develop PLC programs using Studio 5000 Logix Designer
- Program and configure Allen-Bradley ControlLogix and CompactLogix controllers
- Develop and troubleshoot ladder logic, structured text, and function blocks
- Configure PLC I/O modules, remote I/O racks, and distributed control systems
- Troubleshoot and modify PLC programs during installation, startup, and commissioning
- Maintain organized program documentation and software revision control
Mission-Critical Systems Integration
Program, integrate, and support controls for critical data center infrastructure, including:
- Backup diesel generators
- Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems
- Electrical switchgear and power monitoring
- Chiller plants and cooling towers
- CRAH and CRAC systems
- Fuel monitoring systems
- Environmental monitoring systems
- Other mission-critical mechanical and electrical infrastructure
Industrial Networks & Communications
- Configure and troubleshoot EtherNet/IP networks
- Integrate PLC systems with HMI and SCADA platforms
- Develop and support FactoryTalk View applications
- Coordinate PLC communication with Building Management Systems (BMS), Energy Management Systems (EMS), and power monitoring systems
- Troubleshoot network, device, communication, and I/O issues
- Support redundant and fault-tolerant control architectures
Commissioning & Startup
- Support Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT)
- Participate in Site Acceptance Testing (SAT)
- Support Integrated Systems Testing (IST) in mission-critical environments
- Troubleshoot controls during equipment startup and commissioning
- Validate sequences of operation with commissioning agents and project teams
- Diagnose PLC logic, hardware, communication, and field-device issues
- Modify programming based on testing results and field conditions
- Provide onsite technical support during installation, startup, and system integration
Documentation & Project Coordination
- Develop and maintain control narratives, PLC program documentation, I/O lists, and network architecture diagrams
- Prepare and maintain as-built documentation
- Maintain PLC software revision control
- Coordinate with electrical and mechanical contractors
- Work closely with commissioning teams, engineers, and owner representatives
- Communicate technical issues, corrective actions, and system status to project stakeholders
Required Qualifications
- 3–7+ years of PLC programming experience
- Strong hands-on experience with Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation PLC platforms
- Proficiency with ControlLogix and CompactLogix
- Strong experience with Studio 5000 Logix Designer
- Experience programming ladder logic and structured text
- HMI/SCADA development experience
- Strong knowledge of EtherNet/IP and industrial networking
- Experience with electrical control systems
- Experience supporting system startup and commissioning
- Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
- Ability to read and interpret electrical and controls drawings
- Ability to collaborate effectively with construction, engineering, controls, and commissioning teams
Preferred Qualifications
- Data center construction or commissioning experience
- Mission-critical controls experience
- FactoryTalk View experience
- Power generation control systems
- UPS and electrical switchgear monitoring
- BMS and power monitoring integration
- Experience with N+1 or 2N redundant control architectures
- Tier III or Tier IV data center commissioning
- Large-scale industrial automation or construction project experience
Education
Associate's or Bachelor's degree preferred in Electrical Engineering, Automation Engineering, Mechatronics, Industrial Controls, Controls Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
Equivalent industry experience will also be considered.
Benefits Package
- Competitive salary of $90,000–$125,000, based on experience
- Company-provided phone and laptop
- Vehicle allowance or mileage reimbursement
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan with employer match
- Short- and long-term disability insurance
- Paid time off and holidays
- Ongoing technical training and professional development
- Stable, year-round work with long-term growth potential
Travel & Work Environment
This position is based in Sterling, VA and supports data center and mission-critical construction projects.
Travel to project sites may range from approximately 10%–40%, depending on project requirements. Work will include a combination of office, construction site, and active data center environments.
Occasional nights, weekends, or off-hours work may be required during startup, commissioning, and Integrated Systems Testing.
Why Join Us?
- Work on sophisticated mission-critical data center projects
- Program and commission advanced Allen-Bradley control systems
- Gain exposure to complex electrical, mechanical, and building infrastructure
- Participate in systems from development through startup and final commissioning
- Collaborate with experienced controls, engineering, construction, and commissioning professionals
- Build specialized expertise in a high-demand controls market
- Develop a long-term career in automation, commissioning, and mission-critical construction
Work Authorization
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire.
This employer does not provide current or future visa sponsorship or transfer sponsorship for employment.
Write the logic. Commission the system. Keep mission-critical infrastructure running.
Apply today to advance your PLC programming career on technically challenging data center projects in Sterling, VA.
Equal Opportunity Employer: M/W/Disability/Veterans
Kodiak Construction Talent Solutions, formerly known as Pivot Workforce, brings over a century of combined experience specializing in the commercial and industrial construction sectors. We excel at connecting top-tier professionals with leading AEC, MEP, and industrial contractors through our extensive network and tailored placement services.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
