Can you transfer your PLC programming skills?

Dan Talliss • 24 October 2019

How easy is it to transfer your PLC programming skills from one platform to another?


We’ve recruited within the controls and automation industry for a number of years here at ASC. In recent times, we have seen a common theme surrounding the ability to transfer your PLC programming skills. In various candidate and client conversations the team have had, there has been a difference of opinion.


Candidates tell us time and again it’s easy to transfer between platforms and that if you can programme a PLC it doesn’t matter which platform it is.


On the other hand, most (not all) clients will only consider plc programmers who have worked on their platform. Any engineers who could be the right fit culturally, have the technical knowledge and are willing to adapt to another platform are dismissed.


In a candidate led market with a worsening skills shortage should companies be more flexible when considering candidates?


To investigate this further and understand:


  • Why employers feel this way
  • If engineers had transferred PLC programming skills how easy was it
  • If we should encourage employers to change their mindset


We asked the team to reach out to their network. The results made us realise that although technically it is considered to be relatively easy to transfer your PLC programming skills, changing the mindset of employers is not so easy.


Why do employers feel this way?


In short, from the responses received from those hiring, and engineers, it’s not as simple as just considering transferable skills. It becomes complicated when there is a time constraint in terms of delivery deadlines or a customer is working with a specific set of industry standards. This is where companies feel they require an expert but this then puts pressure on the engineer. For example, some company’s may need this expertise straight away and can’t afford to spend time waiting for the new employee to get to grips with the new platform.


However, on the flip side of this, if you consider the time it takes to hire the right person who has experience of your PLC platform, there is a cost impact on your business for each day there is no engineer to take your project forward. But, an engineer without your platform expertise could have got up to speed in the same time. Double-sided sword maybe?


Therefore, should employers change the way they think about recruiting controls and automation engineers for their projects?


Opinion: Should employers change their mindset?


YES


Those that were of the opinion of yes believed it is relatively easy to transfer between platforms and that employers should be assessing the whole package as opposed to just looking at tick boxes. Furthermore, if someone is going to be a good fit and demonstrates the ability and willingness to transfer skills, they should definitely be considered.


Yes, they may need more time to adjust to your platform because there are small differences between each. It was even suggested that some platforms such as Rockwell would only take a few weeks to develop the knowledge required. Whereas Siemens can take a while longer to understand. Does this suggest, it depends on the platform? Also if you have other employees on-site that are experts in this area then they can support a new person get up to speed.


However, for employers to be more open on considering the transferable skills option, it’s important to fully assess ability. Do the applicants’ understand the basics? As one person mentioned “PLC programming is just a tool to implement a control system. If a person has taken the time to learn and understand process control, automation systems and software design best practices, they will not have much trouble moving from one PLC programming platform to another. However, if someone only knows the PLC programming part, and doesn’t understand the WHY part of automatic control systems, they will have a lot of difficulty moving from one PLC platform to another” How familiar are they? Can they hit the ground running?


It was also brought to our attention that it depends on whether the company has considered the long term objective of why they want to hire someone with PLC programming skills. Are they looking for someone to simply work on a short term project or do they want someone who in the long run can improve the running of their facility? If it is the latter, then asking for a specific plc programming skillset isn’t necessary and their wider skills and the value they can bring to the business should be the focus.


NO


The main reason behind the opinion of ‘no employers shouldn’t change their mindset’ is business needs. Therefore it’s not a straight-out ‘no’ but more looking at each role on a case by case basis. For example, if a company only needs a contractor for a month, they won’t be able to afford to give them the time to get up to speed with their platform.


There is also the issue around different industry standards. Automotive having different standards to FMCG for example. Although the standards were meant to make life easier and everything more uniform, they have actually made things more compartmentalised.


Before the standards came in, most engineers could work at most companies. Nowadays, each company will use different platforms. Unless you keep moving from one platform to another, you become an expert of one platform rather than having general/good knowledge of 2 or more.


Do we, therefore, need more of these types of engineers? But is this really plausible? In one sense, no because when we had more engineers like this, the systems were mechanically driven. The factory/plant technology and the environment has evolved. Not only do we have PLC platforms but also complementary technologies. It makes everything a lot more complicated which is why experts in niche areas are required.


However, a new underdeveloped standard called O-PAS could see things changing. It is suggested that once O-PAS is fully defined it will allow for the construction of safe, reliable, secure process automation systems that are scalable & do not require system shutdowns to perform updates. Thus, creating more uniform standards across various industries and there will not be a need for employers to change their mindset about transferring PLC programming skills across platforms.


In conclusion….


What we have taken from this is, it is possible to transfer your PLC programming skills between platforms but due to the complexity of the modern-day platforms and increased functionality within these platforms, it’s not actually that easy when you start getting to the nitty-gritty of it.


We do understand where employers are coming from, in terms of looking at it from a cost point of view. However, although it may not be that easy, we believe each role should be looked at individually and as already mentioned in this article, what is it you want them to achieve and in what time frame? More long term roles, maybe be a little more flexible. It will be interesting to see how standards and technologies evolve. Will we need these niche skill-sets in the future or will they become even more niche? Let’s see what the future holds.


We hope you have found the article and debate interesting. It would be great to hear your opinion, please leave your thoughts below.


If you’re on the lookout for a new role or struggling to hire the right engineer, let’s open up a conversation, get in touch with the team here.

Dan has worked for 7+ years within the engineering recruitment sector and has a good in-depth understanding of the Controls & Automation sector. He is particularly interested in its exciting development and has a real passion for recruiting great talent to help its growth.

SHARE BLOG
28 March 2025
Finding the right talent at the right time is a challenge for many businesses. Whether you’re managing seasonal peaks, covering staff absences or scaling operations, temporary staffing can be a game-changer. By leveraging flexible hiring solutions, businesses can remain agile, control costs and access skilled professionals without long-term commitments. In this article, we explore the key benefits of temporary staffing and how it can drive business growth. 1. Scalability and Flexibility Business demands fluctuate and workforce needs change accordingly. Temporary staffing allows you to scale up or down depending on workload and market conditions. Retailers benefit from temporary hires during busy seasons. Event companies can staff up for major conferences and exhibitions. Manufacturing firms can adjust workforce levels to meet production demands. By integrating temporary workers, businesses avoid the risk of overstaffing during slow periods and understaffing during peak times. 2. Reduced Hiring Risks and Costs Permanent hires come with significant financial commitments, from salaries to benefits and severance packages. Temporary staffing offers a cost-effective alternative. No long-term salary commitments Reduced expenses on benefits and training Minimised legal and compliance risks Recruitment agencies handle vetting, onboarding and payroll, allowing businesses to focus on core operations while ensuring they have access to qualified professionals. 3. Access to Specialised Skills Certain projects or short-term needs require niche expertise that may not exist in-house. Temporary staffing enables businesses to bring in specialists without the cost of a full-time hire. Engineering firms can contract design engineers for specific product development. Manufacturing companies can hire CNC machinists to manage increased production. Warehousing operations can bring in forklift operators and logistics coordinators to handle inventory surges. With an extensive pool of pre-screened professionals, recruitment agencies can match businesses with the right talent quickly and efficiently. 4. Faster Hiring Process Time-to-hire is a critical factor in maintaining business efficiency. Traditional hiring processes can take weeks, but recruitment agencies can provide qualified candidates within days. Pre-screened candidates are ready to start immediately. Agencies manage the recruitment process, saving businesses time. Temporary hires can be converted to permanent roles if they prove to be a great fit. This agility allows businesses to maintain momentum and productivity without prolonged gaps. Overall Temporary staffing is a powerful strategy that helps businesses stay competitive, responsive and cost-effective. Whether you need to fill short-term gaps, scale your workforce or access specialised skills, flexible hiring solutions provide a reliable answer. Looking for the right temporary staff for your business? Get in touch with us today and let our experts connect you with top talent, exactly when you need it!
A person is stacking wooden blocks with arrows on them on a table.
28 February 2025
The job market is rapidly changing because of technological progress, evolving worker expectations and shifts in the economy. By 2025, it's crucial for both employers and job seekers to stay informed about hiring trends to remain competitive. Here are the major trends influencing recruitment in 2025: AI and Automation in Recruitment AI is revolutionising the hiring process. It automates CV screening, facilitates candidate chats and predicts the best job matches. Recruiters use AI tools to streamline hiring, speed up processes and ensure fairness. Companies investing in AI gain an advantage in attracting and hiring top talent. Skills Over Degrees Companies are changing how they hire. They aren't as focused on degrees anymore. Instead, they care more about the skills you have. Employers are looking for practical skills, certifications and real-world experience. They want to know what you can do, not just what you studied in university. People with the right skills are finding more job opportunities, even if they learned through online classes or training programs. It's crucial to show what you can do and the skills you've gained, no matter where or how you learned them. Hybrid and Remote Work Becoming the Norm The need for flexible work setups is rising. People often prefer hybrid work, splitting time between home and the office or working entirely from home. As a result, companies are developing policies to support employees working from various locations. Those businesses that provide these flexible options are more likely to draw in and keep talented professionals, especially in a competitive job market. Focus on Employee Well-being and Work-Life Balance Balancing work and personal life, along with focusing on mental health, is crucial for hiring. Companies invest in wellness programs, mental health support and flexible work hours to increase employee happiness. By creating a healthy and supportive workplace, businesses become more attractive to job seekers. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) at the Forefront Employing individuals from diverse backgrounds is essential for companies. They strive to build workplaces where everyone feels included and valued. To accomplish this, businesses employ strategies like blind hiring, which hides names and backgrounds during the initial selection process. They also make sure their interview panels are made up of people from different backgrounds. Additionally, they actively seek out talented individuals who are underrepresented in their fields. Work environments that embrace diversity tend to generate innovative ideas and achieve better business outcomes. Rise of the Freelance Workforce The freelance economy is growing and more people are choosing freelance or project-based work instead of traditional full-time jobs. Companies are turning to online platforms to find skilled workers for short-term projects. By adopting this flexible hiring model, businesses can access a wider range of talented individuals. Generative AI and Upskilling in the Workplace With AI tools like ChatGPT changing industries, employees need to learn new technology skills. Companies are providing training programs to help workers get AI expertise, ensuring they remain competitive in the shifting job market. Being open to learning and adapting is essential for career success. Data-Driven Hiring Decisions Recruiters are enhancing their hiring strategies through data analysis. By forecasting trends, planning workforce requirements and monitoring employee performance, businesses can make more informed hiring decisions. Companies that prioritize data-driven hiring will attract better candidates and decrease employee turnover. Employer Branding Matters More Than Ever Candidates looking for jobs these days do a lot of research on companies before they apply. Companies that have a good reputation, share positive stories from their employees and have clear values tend to attract the best candidates. When a company communicates openly and supports its workers, it really stands out from the competition. Final Thoughts In 2025, the way companies hire is changing a lot, driven by technology, flexibility and inclusivity. Businesses that adopt AI, focus on hiring for skills and support work-life balance are likely to attract the best employees. Job seekers should align with these new expectations to remain competitive. Keeping informed and taking proactive steps are crucial for success in this evolving job landscape.
A group of people are sitting around a table with laptops.
31 January 2025
In today’s workforce, multiple generations work side by side, each bringing unique perspectives, values and work styles. Understanding these generational differences is key to fostering a productive and harmonious work environment. The Generations at Work Baby Boomers (Born 1946-1964) Baby Boomers value loyalty, hard work and hierarchical structures. They tend to prefer face-to-face communication and have a strong work ethic, often associating job success with long hours and dedication. Generation X (Born 1965-1980) Often called the “middle child” of generations, Gen Xers are independent, resourceful and adaptable. They witnessed the rise of technology and value work-life balance. They prefer direct communication and are comfortable with both traditional and digital communication methods. Millennials (Born 1981-1996) Millennials prioritise collaboration, purpose-driven work and flexibility. They are tech-savvy and prefer open, transparent communication. They seek regular feedback and value career development opportunities, often looking for meaningful work over long-term job security. Generation Z (Born 1997-2012) The newest entrants into the workforce, Gen Zers are true digital natives. They value diversity, inclusion and innovation. They prefer instant communication methods, such as messaging apps and social media, and are drawn to organisations that align with their values and offer work-life integration. Bridging the Generational Gap To create an inclusive workplace that leverages the strengths of each generation, organisations can implement the following strategies: Encourage Open Communication : Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable sharing their perspectives. Utilising multiple communication channels (emails, meetings, messaging apps) ensures that all generations stay informed. Emphasize Mentorship and Reverse Mentorship : Pairing Baby Boomers or Gen X employees with Millennials or Gen Zers promotes knowledge exchange and strengthens intergenerational relationships. Promote Flexibility : Recognising different work styles and preferences—such as remote work options or flexible schedules—can increase job satisfaction and productivity. Leverage Strengths : Assign roles and responsibilities that align with generational strengths. For example, Gen Z’s digital fluency can drive technological innovation, while Baby Boomers’ experience can guide strategic decision-making. Invest in Training and Development : Providing continuous learning opportunities appeals to all generations, particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who seek professional growth. Generational diversity is an asset when managed effectively. By understanding and embracing the differences in work styles, communication preferences and values, organisations can create a more inclusive and dynamic work environment. The key is to find common ground, respect varying perspectives and cultivate a culture of mutual learning and collaboration.
Share by: