PLC Programmer Salary in Canada (2026 Guide)
PLC programmers are among the most in-demand professionals in the industrial automation sector. As factories and manufacturing plants across Canada continue to automate their operations, the demand for skilled PLC programmers continues to grow.
Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) are used to control machines, production lines, robotics systems, and industrial processes. Companies rely on PLC programmers to design, troubleshoot, and maintain these systems.
Because of the technical skills required, PLC programmers often earn strong salaries compared to many other technical careers.
If you are interested in entering this field, read our guide on How to Become a PLC Programmer.
Average PLC Programmer Salary in Canada
The average PLC programmer salary in Canada typically ranges between $80,000 and $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry.
Here is a typical salary breakdown:
Mid-Level PLC Programmer: $80,000 – $105,000
Senior PLC Programmer: $110,000 – $140,000+
Senior automation engineers working on large industrial systems or robotics integration projects can earn even higher salaries, especially when travel or contract work is involved.
PLC Programmer Salary by Experience
Experience plays a major role in determining PLC programmer salaries.
Entry Level (0–2 Years)
Entry-level PLC programmers usually work as junior automation technicians or controls engineers. At this stage, engineers are learning industrial programming environments such as Siemens TIA Portal or Allen Bradley Studio 5000.
Typical salary range:
Mid-Career (3–7 Years)
After gaining experience with industrial equipment, motion control systems, and robotics integration, PLC programmers often move into mid-level roles. At this stage, professionals may be responsible for designing automation systems or commissioning new equipment.
Typical salary range:
Senior PLC Programmer (8+ Years)
Senior PLC programmers often lead automation projects or work as controls engineers for large manufacturing operations or systems integrators.
These professionals typically work with advanced automation technologies such as robotics, SCADA systems, machine vision, and industrial networking.
Typical salary range:
Contract automation engineers or consultants can earn even more depending on project scope.
Industries Hiring PLC Programmers
PLC programmers work across many industries where automation is used.
Common industries include:
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Automotive manufacturing
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Robotics integration
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Food and beverage processing
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Packaging automation
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Energy and utilities
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Pharmaceutical manufacturing
These industries rely heavily on PLC-controlled systems to manage production processes and improve efficiency.
Cities with the Most PLC Programming Jobs in Canada
PLC programming jobs are typically concentrated around major manufacturing hubs.
Some of the top cities for automation careers include:
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Toronto
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Windsor
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London, Ontario
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Kitchener-Waterloo
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Hamilton
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Cambridge
These regions have strong manufacturing sectors and large numbers of industrial automation companies.
Skills That Increase PLC Programmer Salary
Certain technical skills can significantly increase earning potential.
Examples include experience with:
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Siemens PLC systems
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Allen Bradley / Rockwell Automation
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Fanuc robotics
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SCADA systems
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Machine vision systems
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Industrial networking
Engineers who can work across multiple automation platforms are often highly valued by employers.
Browse PLC Programmer Jobs
If you are interested in pursuing a career in industrial automation, you can explore current PLC programming roles here:
👉 Browse PLC Programmer Jobs
jobs.factoryautomationjobs.com
If you are exploring careers in industrial automation, you may also want to learn about the
Controls Engineer Salary in Canada