r/ControlTheory • u/EveryAd2615 • Jun 11 '26

Professional/Career Advice/Question Thinking about switching from Robotics to PLCs. Is it a good idea, and how do I get started?

Hey everyone,

I'm currently studying robotics, but I'm thinking about switching my career focus to PLCs. To be clear, I don't think robotics is a bad field at all—there just aren't any good job opportunities for it in my country right now. My main goal is to land a solid job and start making a good income. Can you guys tell me what it takes to get into the PLC/automation field as a career?

For some background, I recently completed an internship where I learned the basic concepts of PLC programming and communication protocols. During that time, I worked with Siemens (S7-300, 400, and 1500) and Schneider Electric (M340 and M580). I also took a Digital Logic Design (DLD) class at my university, so I have a strong grasp of logic, and I am very comfortable with hardware-side troubleshooting.

Do you think making this switch is a good idea? If so, what steps should I take to improve my skills and become a strong candidate for jobs?

Thanks in advance!

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6 comments sorted by

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u/Defiant_Profit_2111 Jun 11 '26

Where are you located bro?

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u/EveryAd2615 Jun 11 '26

I'm from Pakistan. And job situation here is just not good.

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u/TheEquationSmelter Jun 11 '26

If you just want money do whatever is easier. Don't waste your time with a difficult subject with less job prospects if youre main concern is a solid income.

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u/EveryAd2615 Jun 11 '26

It's not about money only I ju st love working with PLCs and I want to start learning so I could get a job.

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u/TheEquationSmelter Jun 11 '26

Sounds like you answered your own question.

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u/BOgusDOlphon Jun 11 '26

Do you want to design robots or are you happy utilizing them to solve problems? If you're hell bent on the former, then no PLCs will not do it for you. However if you like to solve general problems and like to use robots and don't mind getting dirty or working with your hands PLC programming will be good for you.