Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for PLC Programmer Roles – 2025

Preparing for a PLC programmer job interview? These 20 questions and answers cover all aspects of the job, from technical knowledge to problem-solving abilities and cultural fit. Whether you are applying for an entry level position or a senior role, these questions will help you showcase your skills and experience.

General Questions

• 1. Tell me about yourself.
  This question is often used as an icebreaker. Talk briefly about your education, work experience, and why you are interested in the role. Focus on relevant information and avoid personal details.
• 2. Why do you want to work as a PLC programmer?
  This question allows you to demonstrate your passion and interest in the job. Highlight your technical skills and how you enjoy solving complex problems and working with technology.
• 3. What do you know about our company and our products?
  Research the company and their products before the interview. Share your knowledge and mention any interesting facts or achievements that caught your attention.
• 4. How do you stay updated with the latest developments in PLC programming?
  PLC programming is a constantly evolving field. Show the interviewer that you are committed to learning and staying updated by mentioning relevant resources such as industry publications, online courses, or professional networks.
• 5. What is your experience with project management and meeting deadlines?
  PLC programming often involves working on projects with strict timelines. Provide examples of projects you have worked on and how you managed to deliver them on time, including any challenges you encountered and how you overcame them.

Technical Skills & Experience

• 6. Can you give an example of a complex project you have worked on and how you approached it?
  This question evaluates your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. Choose a project that showcases your abilities and explain your approach in a clear and concise manner.
• 7. What programming languages are you proficient in?
  PLC programmers should be proficient in multiple programming languages. Mention the languages you have experience with, your level of proficiency, and which language you prefer to work in.
• 8. How do you troubleshoot and resolve programming errors or bugs?
  This question evaluates your problem-solving abilities and technical skills. Explain your process for troubleshooting and resolving programming errors, including any tools or methods you use.
• 9. Can you explain the difference between ladder logic and function block diagrams?
  PLC programming involves working with different programming languages and logic diagrams. Show your knowledge by explaining the differences between these two commonly used diagrams.
• 10. Have you ever implemented a safety system in a PLC program? How did you ensure it was effective?
  Safety is a crucial aspect of PLC programming, and implementing safety systems requires attention to detail. Share an example of a safety system you have implemented and how you ensured it was effective.
• 11. What is your experience with HMI (Human Machine Interface) programming?
  HMI programming is an essential aspect of PLC programming. Mention any experience you have with HMI programming and any tools or software you have used.
• 12. How do you handle communication and collaboration with other team members?
  PLC programming often involves working in a team. Talk about your communication and collaboration skills, including how you share information, resolve conflicts, and work towards a common goal.

Behavioral and Situational Questions

• 13. Can you give an example of a time when you encountered a difficult problem while programming a PLC? How did you solve it?
  This question evaluates your problem-solving abilities and how you handle challenges. Be specific and describe your approach, including any tools or techniques you used to solve the problem.
• 14. How do you handle pressure and tight deadlines?
  PLC programming often involves working under pressure to meet project deadlines. Talk about how you handle stress and manage your workload effectively.
• 15. Describe a situation where a project you were working on was behind schedule. How did you handle it?
  This question assesses your project management skills and ability to prioritize tasks. Mention a specific example and explain how you managed to bring the project back on track.
• 16. Have you ever had a conflicting opinion with a team member? How did you resolve it?
  Working in a team can lead to disagreements. Share an example of a conflicting opinion you had with a team member and how you handled it professionally.
• 17. How do you stay motivated and engaged in your work?
  Motivation is crucial for job satisfaction and success. Share how you stay motivated and enthusiastic about your work, especially during challenging projects.
• 18. Describe a time when you had to adapt your programming process to meet changing project requirements.
  PLC programming often involves working on projects with evolving requirements. Share an example of a time when you had to adapt your programming process to meet changing project needs.

Culture Fit

• 19. How do you handle feedback and constructive criticism?
  Constructive feedback is essential for professional growth. Talk about how you handle feedback and use it to improve your skills and performance.
• 20. Why do you think you would be a good fit for our company?
  This question evaluates your understanding of the company culture and values. Mention specific aspects of the company's culture that align with your own values and why you believe you would fit in well with the team.