If you are a qualified electrician or electrical engineer considering a move into industrial automation, you are in an excellent position. Your existing skills provide a strong foundation, and the transition is more achievable than you might think. This guide maps out exactly how to make it happen.
Why Electrical Engineers Have an Advantage
Electrical engineers and qualified electricians already possess several skills that are fundamental to automation work:
- Circuit understanding — You can read and interpret electrical schematics, which is essential for understanding PLC I/O wiring.
- Safety awareness — You understand electrical safety regulations, isolation procedures, and safe systems of work.
- Hardware familiarity — You have worked with contactors, relays, motor starters, and sensors — the very devices that PLCs control.
- Troubleshooting mindset — Diagnosing electrical faults develops the logical thinking that PLC programming requires.
Many PLC engineers started exactly where you are now. The transition from understanding how circuits work to programming the controllers that manage them is a natural progression.
What You Need to Learn
The gap between electrical engineering and automation centres on three areas:
PLC Programming
This is the core skill. You need to learn:
- Ladder logic — The most common PLC programming language, and one that will feel familiar because it resembles electrical relay diagrams.
- Structured text — A text-based language similar to Pascal, used for complex calculations and data handling.
- Function block diagrams — A graphical language for process control applications.
Start with Siemens TIA Portal or Allen-Bradley Studio 5000, as these are the two most widely used platforms in the UK.
SCADA and HMI
Understanding how operators interact with automation systems is important. You will need to learn how to configure Human-Machine Interfaces and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems.
Industrial Networking
Modern automation relies on industrial Ethernet protocols like PROFINET and EtherNet/IP. You need a basic understanding of IP addressing, network topology, and how PLCs communicate with other devices.
A Practical Transition Plan
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-3)
- Enrol in a CPD-accredited PLC programming course. <a href="/automation-engineer-career-guide">EDWartens' automation career guide</a> provides structured learning paths for career changers.
- Learn ladder logic fundamentals — your relay circuit knowledge makes this intuitive.
- Practice with simulation software alongside your current job.
Phase 2: Skills Building (Months 3-6)
- Complete intermediate PLC training covering timers, counters, data handling, and analogue I/O.
- Start learning HMI configuration.
- Build a portfolio of training projects.
Phase 3: Job Search (Months 6-12)
- Apply for junior controls engineer or commissioning assistant roles.
- Leverage your electrical background in applications — employers value engineers who can wire panels and program PLCs.
- Consider internal transfers if your current employer has an automation department.
Roles to Target
As an electrician transitioning to automation, these roles are realistic targets:
- Junior Controls Engineer — GBP 30,000 to GBP 38,000
- Commissioning Technician — GBP 32,000 to GBP 40,000
- Maintenance Controls Engineer — GBP 35,000 to GBP 45,000
- Panel Build and Test Engineer — GBP 28,000 to GBP 36,000
Within two to three years of focused automation work, you can progress to mid-level controls engineer roles earning GBP 42,000 to GBP 55,000.
Common Concerns Addressed
Will I need a degree? No. Many successful PLC engineers hold HNC/HND qualifications or completed apprenticeships. Practical ability and CPD-accredited training are valued equally alongside formal degrees.
Am I too old to switch? Absolutely not. Automation engineering values experience and maturity. Career changers in their 30s and 40s are common and welcomed by employers.
Can I study alongside my current job? Yes. Most quality training courses are available in intensive formats spanning three to five days, or can be completed over weekends and evenings.
Taking the First Step
The automation industry needs your electrical skills. The UK faces a significant shortage of engineers who combine hands-on electrical knowledge with PLC programming ability. By investing in structured training, you can access a career with higher salaries, better progression, and more intellectually stimulating work.