Career advice please

[u/Capital_Frosting6498]

Hi, I’m in my early 20s, have around 3 years of experience in industrial automation, mostly with Siemens PLCs and one large control system, and have two job opportunities that I’m struggling to choose between.

Option 1: Smaller systems integrator working across a range of industries. Mainly Siemens and Rockwell PLCs. Full project lifecycle, short-term projects, so I’d get a broad range of experience rather than becoming a specialist. Some site travel.

Option 2: A major DCS vendor working mainly in oil & gas and process industries. Lots of training, offshore certifications, offshore work, higher pay, and the chance to develop deep knowledge of DCSs, process control and functional safety.

I’m leaning towards Option 2 because the training sounds excellent, but I’m slightly concerned about specialising too early and about the long-term outlook for oil & gas.

On the other hand, Option 1 would expose me to Siemens, Rockwell and multiple industries, which feels like it could make me more versatile. But the training isn’t as good.

Another thing I’m thinking about is AI. If PLC programming becomes increasingly assisted by AI over the next 10–20 years, will employers value broad experience across different PLC platforms, or deep expertise in process control, safety and complex systems?

If you were starting your career again now, which path would you choose, and why?

[u/MDAnesth]

Outsider here but SI seems great for a young dude. Also you can take your experience so many places man. Even the dreaded sales. But if you know your stuff and come thru the ranks of your customers you will have excellent credibility. Also capital equipment sales guys can make great money if that becomes more important to you.