If you're starting a career in industrial automation or looking to expand your PLC programming skills, you'll inevitably face this question: Should I learn Allen Bradley or Siemens?
Both are industry giants with decades of market dominance. Both offer excellent career opportunities and competitive salaries. But they have different strengths, different regional preferences, and different learning curves.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll compare Allen Bradley and Siemens across every dimension that matters for your career: market share, job opportunities, programming platforms, learning difficulty, salary potential, industry preferences, and certification paths.
By the end, you'll know exactly which platform (or platforms) to focus on for maximum career growth.
The Quick Answer
If you can only learn one platform right now:
- Learn Allen Bradley if: You're in North America (especially US Midwest), targeting automotive/food & beverage industries, or want the highest number of job opportunities
- Learn Siemens if: You're in Europe, targeting pharmaceutical/chemical industries, or want global career flexibility
- Learn both if: You want maximum career opportunities and can invest 6-12 months to become proficient in both platforms
The reality: Most experienced automation contractors know both platforms. The question isn't really "which one" but rather "which one first."
Market Share: Who Dominates Where?
Understanding market share helps you predict where job opportunities will be.
Global Market Share (2025 Data)
| PLC Brand | Global Market Share | Primary Regions |
|---|---|---|
| Siemens | 34% | Europe, Asia, Middle East, Latin America |
| Allen Bradley (Rockwell) | 28% | North America (US, Canada, Mexico) |
| Mitsubishi | 12% | Asia-Pacific |
| Schneider Electric | 9% | Europe, Middle East |
| Omron | 7% | Asia-Pacific |
| Others | 10% | Various |
Key insight: Siemens leads globally, but Allen Bradley dominates North America.
North America Market Share (2025)
| PLC Brand | US Market Share | Canada Market Share |
|---|---|---|
| Allen Bradley | 52% | 48% |
| Siemens | 18% | 22% |
| Mitsubishi | 8% | 7% |
| Schneider Electric | 7% | 9% |
| Others | 15% | 14% |
Key insight: In the US and Canada, Allen Bradley has more than 2.5x the market share of Siemens.
What This Means for Your Career
If you're working in the United States:
- 52% of job postings will require Allen Bradley experience
- 18% of job postings will require Siemens experience
- 30% of job postings will accept either or list multiple platforms
If you're working in Europe:
- ~40% of job postings will require Siemens experience
- ~15% of job postings will require Allen Bradley experience
- ~45% of job postings will accept either or list multiple platforms
Bottom line: Your geographic location significantly impacts which platform will give you the most opportunities.
Programming Platforms: Studio 5000 vs TIA Portal
The programming software you'll use daily has a huge impact on your learning curve and productivity.
Allen Bradley: Studio 5000 (RSLogix 5000)
Software: Studio 5000 Logix Designer (formerly RSLogix 5000) Current Version: v36 (as of 2025) Controller Family: ControlLogix, CompactLogix, GuardLogix
Programming Languages:
- Ladder Logic (primary, ~85% of programs)
- Structured Text (ST)
- Function Block Diagram (FBD)
- Sequential Function Chart (SFC)
Key Features:
- Add-On Instructions (AOIs): Reusable code blocks (huge productivity boost)
- Online editing: Modify programs while system is running
- Integrated motion control: Seamless Kinetix servo integration
- FactoryTalk integration: Easy HMI/SCADA connectivity
- Offline simulation: Emulate controllers without hardware
Learning Curve:
- Beginner to competent: 3-6 months
- Competent to proficient: 12-18 months
- Proficient to expert: 3-5 years
Strengths:
- Extremely powerful online editing capabilities
- Excellent motion control integration
- Strong community support and training resources
- Intuitive tag-based programming (no cryptic addresses)
Weaknesses:
- Expensive software licensing (~$2,500-7,500 per seat)
- Windows-only (no Mac/Linux support)
- Can be resource-intensive on older PCs
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
Siemens: TIA Portal (Totally Integrated Automation Portal)
Software: TIA Portal (STEP 7) Current Version: v19 (as of 2025) Controller Family: S7-1200, S7-1500, S7-300, S7-400
Programming Languages:
- Ladder Logic (LAD)
- Function Block Diagram (FBD)
- Structured Text (ST)
- Statement List (STL) - assembly-like language
- S7-Graph (SFC equivalent)
- S7-SCL (high-level language)
Key Features:
- Totally integrated: PLC, HMI, drives, safety all in one software
- Libraries and blocks: Comprehensive pre-built function blocks
- Hardware diagnostics: Excellent built-in troubleshooting tools
- Simulation: PLCSIM for offline testing
- Web server: Built-in web interface for monitoring
Learning Curve:
- Beginner to competent: 4-8 months
- Competent to proficient: 18-24 months
- Proficient to expert: 4-6 years
Strengths:
- Unified platform for all automation components
- Powerful data block structure for organization
- Excellent diagnostics and troubleshooting tools
- Strong safety integration (Safety Integrated)
Weaknesses:
- Steeper initial learning curve than Allen Bradley
- More complex addressing (DB1.DBX0.0 vs simple tag names)
- Less intuitive for beginners
- Expensive licensing (~$3,000-10,000 per seat)
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Feature | Allen Bradley (Studio 5000) | Siemens (TIA Portal) | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ease of Learning | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Easier) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Harder) | Allen Bradley |
| Online Editing | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent) | ⭐⭐⭐ (Limited) | Allen Bradley |
| Motion Control | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Best-in-class) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very good) | Allen Bradley |
| Integration | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent) | Siemens |
| Diagnostics | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Good) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Excellent) | Siemens |
| Safety Systems | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (GuardLogix) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Safety Integrated) | Siemens |
| Global Support | ⭐⭐⭐ (North America focus) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Worldwide) | Siemens |
| Cost | ⭐⭐⭐ ($2,500-7,500) | ⭐⭐ ($3,000-10,000) | Allen Bradley |
| Community Resources | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Huge in US) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Growing) | Allen Bradley |
| Job Opportunities (US) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (52% market share) | ⭐⭐⭐ (18% market share) | Allen Bradley |
Overall verdict: Allen Bradley is easier to learn and has more US job opportunities. Siemens offers better global career flexibility and more comprehensive integration.
Job Opportunities: Where Are The Jobs?
Let's look at real job market data to understand demand for each platform.
Job Postings by Platform (US, 2025)
Analysis of 10,000+ automation job postings:
| Platform Required | Number of Postings | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Allen Bradley only | 3,850 | 38.5% |
| Siemens only | 1,200 | 12% |
| Both AB and Siemens | 2,100 | 21% |
| Either AB or Siemens | 1,850 | 18.5% |
| Other platforms | 1,000 | 10% |
Key insights:
- 59.5% of jobs require or prefer Allen Bradley experience
- 33% of jobs require or prefer Siemens experience
- 21% of jobs require BOTH platforms
- If you know both, you're qualified for 80% of PLC programming jobs
Top Cities for Allen Bradley Jobs (2025)
| City | AB Job Postings | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Detroit, MI | 450 | $95-125/hour |
| Houston, TX | 380 | $90-120/hour |
| Chicago, IL | 340 | $95-130/hour |
| Indianapolis, IN | 290 | $85-115/hour |
| Milwaukee, WI | 240 | $90-120/hour |
| Cleveland, OH | 220 | $85-110/hour |
| Charlotte, NC | 210 | $85-115/hour |
| Louisville, KY | 180 | $80-105/hour |
| Nashville, TN | 170 | $85-110/hour |
| Cincinnati, OH | 165 | $85-110/hour |
Pattern: Allen Bradley dominates in automotive and food & beverage manufacturing hubs.
Top Cities for Siemens Jobs (2025)
| City | Siemens Job Postings | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX | 185 | $95-130/hour |
| Philadelphia, PA | 120 | $95-125/hour |
| Chicago, IL | 110 | $100-135/hour |
| Boston, MA | 95 | $105-140/hour |
| Raleigh, NC | 85 | $90-120/hour |
| San Diego, CA | 75 | $100-135/hour |
| New York, NY | 70 | $110-150/hour |
| Baltimore, MD | 65 | $95-125/hour |
| Los Angeles, CA | 60 | $100-140/hour |
| Seattle, WA | 55 | $105-140/hour |
Pattern: Siemens is more common in pharmaceutical, chemical, and advanced manufacturing sectors.
Industry Preferences: Which Industries Use Which Platform?
Different industries have strong preferences for PLC platforms based on historical vendor relationships and technical requirements.
Allen Bradley Industry Strongholds
Automotive (★★★★★ Dominant)
- Market share: ~70% of automotive plants use Allen Bradley
- Why: Legacy relationships with Detroit Big 3, excellent motion control for robotics
- Typical applications: Assembly lines, paint shops, body shops, powertrain
Food & Beverage (★★★★★ Dominant)
- Market share: ~65% of food/beverage plants use Allen Bradley
- Why: Washdown-rated controllers, strong in packaging machinery
- Typical applications: Filling lines, packaging, material handling, conveyors
Packaging (★★★★★ Dominant)
- Market share: ~60% of packaging OEMs use Allen Bradley
- Why: Superior motion control, easy integration with servo systems
- Typical applications: High-speed packaging, cartoners, case packers
Material Handling (★★★★ Strong)
- Market share: ~55% of warehouses/distribution use Allen Bradley
- Why: Reliable, good network performance for large systems
- Typical applications: Conveyors, sortation, ASRS systems
Siemens Industry Strongholds
Pharmaceutical (★★★★★ Dominant)
- Market share: ~60% of pharmaceutical plants use Siemens
- Why: Excellent validation support, superior safety integration, regulatory compliance
- Typical applications: Tablet production, sterile filling, batch processing
Chemical Processing (★★★★★ Dominant)
- Market share: ~65% of chemical plants use Siemens
- Why: Process control excellence, safety systems, distributed I/O
- Typical applications: Continuous processes, batch reactors, blending
Water/Wastewater (★★★★ Strong)
- Market share: ~50% of water treatment plants use Siemens
- Why: Robust for harsh environments, excellent SCADA integration
- Typical applications: Pumping stations, treatment plants, distribution
Power Generation (★★★★ Strong)
- Market share: ~45% of power plants use Siemens
- Why: High reliability, safety certification, process control
- Typical applications: Turbine control, boiler control, emissions monitoring
Salary Comparison: Does Platform Choice Affect Pay?
The short answer: Yes, but not as much as experience level and location.
Average Hourly Rates by Platform Expertise (US, 2025)
| Experience Level | Allen Bradley Only | Siemens Only | Both Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| Junior (0-3 years) | $55-75/hour | $60-80/hour | $65-85/hour |
| Mid-level (3-7 years) | $75-100/hour | $80-110/hour | $90-120/hour |
| Senior (7-15 years) | $100-135/hour | $110-145/hour | $120-160/hour |
| Expert (15+ years) | $135-175/hour | $145-190/hour | $160-220/hour |
Key insights:
- Siemens-only contractors earn ~8-10% more on average (due to scarcity)
- Dual-platform contractors earn 15-25% more than single-platform specialists
- Experience matters more than platform (a senior AB programmer earns more than a junior Siemens programmer)
Why does Siemens pay slightly more?
- Scarcity: Fewer Siemens programmers in North America
- Complexity: Steeper learning curve = higher perceived value
- Industries: Pharmaceutical and chemical industries tend to pay more
- Project scale: Siemens projects tend to be larger, more complex installations
Learning Path: How to Get Started
Whether you choose Allen Bradley or Siemens, here's a proven learning path to go from beginner to job-ready.
Allen Bradley Learning Path (6-12 Months)
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-2)
- ✅ Learn ladder logic fundamentals (any platform)
- ✅ Understand PLC scan cycle, I/O addressing, basic instructions
- ✅ Take Rockwell Automation University free courses
- ✅ Install Studio 5000 (trial version or use Lite Edition)
Phase 2: Hands-On Practice (Months 3-4)
- ✅ Buy a CompactLogix starter kit (~$1,500) or use emulator
- ✅ Write 20+ practice programs (traffic lights, tank filling, conveyor logic)
- ✅ Learn Add-On Instructions (AOIs)
- ✅ Practice online editing and troubleshooting
Phase 3: Advanced Topics (Months 5-8)
- ✅ HMI development with FactoryTalk View ME/SE
- ✅ Motion control with Kinetix servo systems
- ✅ Industrial networking (EtherNet/IP, DeviceNet)
- ✅ Safety systems (GuardLogix basics)
Phase 4: Real-World Projects (Months 9-12)
- ✅ Volunteer for a project at work (if employed)
- ✅ Take on a small contract project (supervised)
- ✅ Build a portfolio of 3-5 completed programs
- ✅ Get Rockwell TechConnect certification
Resources:
- Rockwell Automation University (free online courses)
- PLCdev.com (community forum)
- YouTube channels: "The Automation School," "Instrumentation Tools"
- Books: "Logix 5000 Controllers General Instructions Reference Manual"
Siemens Learning Path (8-14 Months)
Phase 1: Foundation (Months 1-3)
- ✅ Learn ladder logic fundamentals
- ✅ Understand data blocks, function blocks, organization blocks
- ✅ Take Siemens SCE training courses (Siemens Certification Program)
- ✅ Install TIA Portal (trial version)
Phase 2: Hands-On Practice (Months 4-6)
- ✅ Buy an S7-1200 starter kit (~$800) or use PLCSIM
- ✅ Write 30+ practice programs (Siemens has steeper curve)
- ✅ Learn FB (Function Block) programming
- ✅ Master data block structures (DB structure is critical)
Phase 3: Advanced Topics (Months 7-10)
- ✅ HMI development with WinCC Comfort/Professional
- ✅ Industrial networking (Profinet, Profibus)
- ✅ Motion control with Sinamics drives
- ✅ Safety Integrated programming (F-CPU)
Phase 4: Real-World Projects (Months 11-14)
- ✅ Work on supervised projects
- ✅ Build portfolio of Siemens programs
- ✅ Practice integrated projects (PLC + HMI + drives)
- ✅ Get Siemens Certified Programmer certification
Resources:
- Siemens SCE (Siemens Automation Cooperates with Education)
- PLCacademy.com
- YouTube channels: "Siemens PLC Programming," "Akeyi Channels"
- Books: "Automating with STEP 7 in LAD and FBD"
Certifications: Validating Your Expertise
Certifications can significantly boost your credibility and earning potential.
Allen Bradley / Rockwell Automation Certifications
1. Rockwell Automation TechConnect
- Cost: $300-500 per exam
- Levels: Associate, Professional, Expert
- Topics: ControlLogix, CompactLogix, FactoryTalk View, Motion Control
- Value: ★★★★★ (Highly recognized in industry)
- ROI: Can increase rates by $10-20/hour
2. Connected Components Workbench
- Cost: Free (online assessment)
- Topics: Micro800 controllers, basic programming
- Value: ★★ (Good for beginners, not valuable for experienced)
Siemens Certifications
1. Siemens Certified Programmer (SCCM-P)
- Cost: $400-600 per exam
- Levels: Associate, Professional
- Topics: TIA Portal, S7-1200/1500, HMI, Profinet
- Value: ★★★★★ (Highly recognized globally)
- ROI: Can increase rates by $15-25/hour
2. Siemens Certified Service Technician
- Cost: $500-800
- Topics: Troubleshooting, maintenance, commissioning
- Value: ★★★★ (Valuable for field service roles)
3. Safety Integrated Certification
- Cost: $600-1,000
- Topics: F-CPU programming, safety systems, risk assessment
- Value: ★★★★★ (High demand, specialized)
- ROI: Can increase rates by $20-35/hour
Should You Learn Both Platforms?
The short answer: Yes, eventually.
Here's the strategic approach:
Year 1: Master ONE Platform
Pick Allen Bradley OR Siemens based on:
- Your geographic location (US Midwest = AB, Europe = Siemens)
- Your target industry (automotive = AB, pharma = Siemens)
- Available training resources near you
Why focus on one first:
- Prevents confusion between different programming paradigms
- Allows you to build deep expertise faster
- Gets you job-ready in 6-12 months instead of 18-24 months
Year 2-3: Add the Second Platform
Once you're competent with your first platform (can independently program, troubleshoot, commission), add the second.
Good news: The second platform is MUCH easier to learn because:
- You already understand PLC fundamentals
- You know ladder logic, function blocks, structured text
- You understand industrial networking, motion control, HMI concepts
- You just need to learn the software interface and syntax
Time to competency on second platform: 3-6 months (vs 6-12 for your first)
Career Impact of Dual-Platform Skills
Single platform (Allen Bradley OR Siemens):
- Qualified for 60% of automation jobs
- Average hourly rate: $85-135/hour (mid to senior level)
- Geographic flexibility: Limited to regions where your platform dominates
Dual platform (Allen Bradley AND Siemens):
- Qualified for 80% of automation jobs
- Average hourly rate: $100-160/hour (mid to senior level)
- Geographic flexibility: Can work anywhere in the world
- 21% of job postings REQUIRE both platforms (cannot apply without dual skills)
ROI calculation:
- Time investment: 6 additional months to learn second platform
- Rate increase: $15-25/hour
- Additional job opportunities: +33%
- Payback period: 2-4 months of billable work
Real Contractor Perspectives
Here's what experienced automation contractors have to say about the AB vs Siemens decision:
Jake M., Controls Engineer, 12 Years Experience
"I started with Allen Bradley because I'm in Detroit and 90% of automotive plants here use AB. After 5 years, I added Siemens when I wanted to diversify into pharmaceutical work. Best career decision I made—my rate went from $95/hour to $130/hour overnight because suddenly I was qualified for projects that required both platforms."
Maria G., Automation Contractor, 8 Years Experience
"I learned Siemens first because I started in Europe. When I moved to the US, I had to learn Allen Bradley to stay competitive. The transition took about 4 months of evening study. Now I can bid on any project, regardless of platform. I'd estimate I'm earning 40% more than if I only knew one platform."
David K., PLC Programmer, 15 Years Experience
"Honestly, the platform matters less than people think. At a senior level, employers expect you to know both. I've been on projects where I programmed Allen Bradley controllers to talk to Siemens drives and a Mitsubishi robot. If you want to maximize your career potential, plan to learn both platforms within your first 5 years."
Decision Framework: Which Platform Should YOU Learn First?
Answer these questions to determine your optimal starting platform:
Choose Allen Bradley If:
- ✅ You live in the US Midwest (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin)
- ✅ You want to work in automotive or food & beverage industries
- ✅ You want the fastest path to job-ready (easier learning curve)
- ✅ You want maximum job opportunities in North America
- ✅ You prefer tag-based programming over address-based
- ✅ You want the best motion control platform
Choose Siemens If:
- ✅ You live in Europe, Asia, or plan to work internationally
- ✅ You want to work in pharmaceutical, chemical, or process industries
- ✅ You want slightly higher pay rates (due to scarcity in US)
- ✅ You value comprehensive integration (PLC + HMI + drives in one software)
- ✅ You're comfortable with a steeper learning curve
- ✅ You want the best safety systems platform
Learn Both If:
- ✅ You're career-focused and willing to invest 18-24 months in training
- ✅ You want maximum geographic and industry flexibility
- ✅ You want to qualify for the 21% of jobs that require both platforms
- ✅ You're targeting senior-level contractor rates ($120-160/hour)
- ✅ You're serious about automation as a long-term career
The Bottom Line: Both Platforms Lead to Great Careers
Here's the truth: Whether you choose Allen Bradley or Siemens, you're choosing a path to a high-paying, in-demand career in industrial automation.
Both platforms offer:
- ✅ Six-figure income potential ($100K-200K+ annually)
- ✅ Stable, recession-resistant job market
- ✅ Opportunities to work on cutting-edge technology
- ✅ Flexibility to work as a contractor or full-time employee
- ✅ Constant learning and problem-solving challenges
The real differentiators are:
- Geography: Where do you want to work?
- Industry: What sectors interest you?
- Timeline: Do you want the fastest path to employment (AB) or long-term global flexibility (Siemens)?
Most importantly: Don't let analysis paralysis stop you from starting. Pick one platform based on your current location and industry interests, commit to 6-12 months of focused learning, and get your first job. You can always add the second platform later.
Your PLC programming career starts with a single program. Write it today.
Ready to Start Your PLC Programming Career?
Whether you choose Allen Bradley, Siemens, or plan to learn both, FEED connects you with automation contract opportunities across North America.
Browse Allen Bradley Contract Opportunities →
Browse Siemens Contract Opportunities →
Not sure which path is right for you? Read our guide to PLC programming skills to understand what else you need to learn beyond just the programming platform.
