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PLC Commissioning Engineer

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

PLC Commissioning Engineers ensure Programmable Logic Controllers function correctly. They test, troubleshoot, and optimize PLC systems for industrial automation.

Average Salary

₹6,00,000

Growth

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Satisfaction

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for a PLC Commissioning Engineer

To become a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) Commissioning Engineer in India, a strong educational foundation in engineering is essential. Here's a breakdown of the typical educational path:

  • Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in one of the following engineering disciplines is generally required:

    • Electrical Engineering
    • Electronics Engineering
    • Instrumentation Engineering
    • Control Systems Engineering
    • Mechatronics Engineering

  • Diploma: A diploma in a relevant engineering field can be a starting point, but further education (like a bachelor's degree) is often needed for career advancement.

  • Core Coursework: The curriculum should cover key areas such as:

    • PLC Programming (Ladder Logic, Function Block Diagram, etc.)
    • Industrial Automation
    • Control Systems
    • Instrumentation
    • Electrical Circuits
    • Networking
    • SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition)

  • Certifications: While not always mandatory, certifications in PLC programming from leading manufacturers (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation, Schneider Electric) can significantly enhance job prospects.

  • Skills:

    • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
    • Excellent understanding of electrical and electronic systems.
    • Proficiency in PLC programming languages.
    • Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
    • Good communication and teamwork skills.

  • Experience: Practical experience through internships or entry-level positions is highly valuable. Many companies prefer candidates with some hands-on experience in PLC systems and industrial automation.

Study Path
Top Colleges

To pursue a career as a PLC Commissioning Engineer in India, consider these top colleges and institutions offering relevant courses:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs):

    • IIT Delhi, IIT Mumbai, IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur: Offer excellent B.Tech and M.Tech programs in Electrical, Electronics, and Instrumentation Engineering.

  • National Institutes of Technology (NITs):

    • NIT Trichy, NIT Warangal, NIT Surathkal: Known for their strong engineering programs and focus on practical skills.

  • Other Reputed Engineering Colleges:

    • BITS Pilani: Offers quality engineering education with a focus on industry-relevant skills.
    • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT): Provides a wide range of engineering programs and good placement opportunities.
    • SRM Institute of Science and Technology: Known for its strong industry connections and diverse engineering programs.

  • Top Polytechnic Colleges:

    • Government Polytechnic Mumbai: Offers diploma courses in Electrical and Electronics Engineering.
    • MS Ramaiah Polytechnic, Bangalore: Provides diploma programs with a focus on practical training.

  • Specialized Training Institutes:

    • Protech Skills: Offers specialized PLC training courses with hands-on experience.
    • iFluids Engineering: Provides comprehensive training in industrial automation and PLC programming.
Fees

The cost of education to become a PLC Commissioning Engineer in India can vary widely depending on the type of institution and the specific program. Here's a general overview:

  • Bachelor's Degree:

    • Government Colleges: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year. Total cost: ₹80,000 to ₹2,00,000 for a 4-year program.
    • Private Colleges: ₹80,000 to ₹3,00,000 per year. Total cost: ₹3,20,000 to ₹12,00,000 for a 4-year program.

  • Master's Degree (M.Tech):

    • Government Colleges (after GATE): ₹30,000 to ₹70,000 per year. Total cost: ₹60,000 to ₹1,40,000 for a 2-year program.
    • Private Colleges: ₹1,00,000 to ₹4,00,000 per year. Total cost: ₹2,00,000 to ₹8,00,000 for a 2-year program.

  • Diploma Courses:

    • Polytechnic Colleges (Government): ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year.
    • Private Institutes: ₹30,000 to ₹1,00,000 per year.

  • PLC Certification Courses:

    • Manufacturer-Specific Courses: ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per course (e.g., Siemens, Allen-Bradley).
    • Private Training Institutes: ₹15,000 to ₹40,000 per course.
Related Exams

To excel as a PLC Commissioning Engineer, focusing on relevant exams and certifications can significantly boost your career. While there isn't one specific entrance exam directly for this role, several certifications and educational paths can help you gain expertise.

  • Engineering Entrance Exams: Cracking engineering entrance exams like JEE Main and JEE Advanced is the first step to getting into top engineering colleges in India. These exams pave the way for a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronics, Instrumentation, or Mechatronics Engineering.

  • GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): After your bachelor's, GATE can help you get into top-tier colleges for masters.

  • PLC Certification Exams: Many PLC manufacturers offer certifications that validate your skills in their specific systems. Some popular certifications include:

    • Siemens PLC Certification
    • Allen-Bradley/Rockwell Automation PLC Certification
    • Schneider Electric PLC Certification

  • Professional Certifications: Consider certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) from ISA (International Society of Automation) to demonstrate a broad understanding of automation principles.

Exam NameExam Date
Pros And Cons

Pros

  1. High demand in manufacturing and automation industries.
  2. Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technology.
  3. Competitive salary and benefits packages.
  4. Intellectually stimulating and challenging work.
  5. Scope for continuous learning and development.
  6. Opportunity to travel to different sites for commissioning.
  7. Contributes to improving efficiency and safety.
  8. Job security due to the importance of automation.
  9. Potential for career advancement into management roles.
  10. Satisfaction of seeing systems come to life.

Cons

  1. Can involve working in challenging environments.
  2. Requires continuous learning to stay updated.
  3. May involve travel to remote locations.
  4. High-pressure situations during commissioning.
  5. Responsibility for ensuring system reliability.
  6. Potential for long hours during critical phases.
  7. Requires strong problem-solving under pressure.
  8. Dealing with complex and integrated systems.
  9. Risk of errors leading to costly downtime.
  10. Can be physically demanding at times.