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Additional Posts in Mechanical Engineering
Hmm. I’m attracted to engineers..
What field is everyone here working in?
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It depends on what you enjoy doing. Find your niche. It wouldn't hurt to get familiar with both CAD and PLCs if you have the opportunity. Then, determine what you like best to pursue going forward.
I have a lot of experience in controls, but not with PLCs. My background is in high-level system modeling, simulation, and the design of control algorithms in a software engineering environment, which is associated with product design, not controlling the factories that manufacture the product. PLCs are about factory automation.
However, I'm constantly contacted by recruiters looking for control people with PLC experience. As factories migrate toward Industry 4.0, PLC control might be a good focus for you if you enjoy this kind of work.
Manufacturing
You’re off the will and out of the family
I don't have a lot (or any really) experience in PLCs. That said, I've used CAD almost my whole career and love that part of my job. Anytime I've ever felt the need to move on from a company, I haven't had to look for long. Some offers even came my way without looking.
Depends on what your priorities are. PLC guys are always in demand, but depending on the role it can be mission critical work. Design varies a lot by role as well but is generally more 9-5 M-F. But you could have lots of designs going at the same time. In general, if either role expects more than 40 hrs/week, I strongly recommend an hourly pay role vs salary.