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Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer Jobs in Rice Lake, WI

Cloud Systems Engineer

Rice Lake, WI · On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

Microsoft or other relevant IT certifications are preferred. * 5-7 years of experience in Windows ... NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration ...

Cloud Systems Engineer

Rice Lake, WI · On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

Microsoft or other relevant IT certifications are preferred. * 5-7 years of experience in Windows ... NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration ...

Machine Operator

Barronett, WI · On-site

$16.50 - $19.75/hr

You get there by tackling the impossible, working around it, designing through it and engineering i ... Basic LEAN manufacturing knowledge or the ability to obtain 5-S certification within 6 months of ...

Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer information

See Rice Lake, WI salary details

$14

$46

$130

How much do freelance certified manufacturing engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance certified manufacturing engineer in Rice Lake, WI is $46.94, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.89 and $60.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer do?

A Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and optimizes manufacturing processes on a contract or project basis, rather than as a full-time employee. They apply engineering principles to improve productivity, efficiency, and quality in manufacturing operations, often working with multiple clients across different industries. Their responsibilities may include process analysis, equipment selection, workflow optimization, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Certification demonstrates their expertise and commitment to best practices in manufacturing engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer, you need a solid background in manufacturing processes, quality control, and process optimization, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and certification such as CMfgE from SME. Familiarity with CAD/CAM software, ERP systems, and lean manufacturing methodologies is typically required. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate with clients and manage multiple projects independently. These skills and qualifications are vital to deliver high-quality engineering solutions, maintain client satisfaction, and ensure efficient production outcomes.

What are some common challenges freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineers face when working with multiple clients?

Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting quickly to different company processes, balancing multiple project timelines, and ensuring clear communication across diverse client teams. Each client may use unique manufacturing technologies or software, requiring rapid learning and flexibility. Additionally, freelancers must independently manage project scopes, budgets, and deliverables, which can be demanding but offers valuable experience and autonomy.

What is the difference between Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer vs Certified Manufacturing Engineer?

AspectFreelance Certified Manufacturing EngineerCertified Manufacturing Engineer
CredentialsTypically holds a professional certification like CMfgE, but works independentlyHolds a professional certification like CMfgE, usually employed full-time
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, project-based, often remote or on-site at client locationsCorporate manufacturing facilities or industrial settings
Employer/Industry UsageServes multiple clients across industries as an independent consultantWorks for manufacturing companies or industry organizations

In summary, a Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer operates independently, providing specialized services to various clients, while a Certified Manufacturing Engineer is typically employed full-time within a manufacturing organization. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in work setting and employment structure.

What cities near Rice Lake, WI are hiring for Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rice Lake, WI with the most Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Certified Manufacturing Engineer job openings in Rice Lake, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,644 per year, or $46.9 per hour.

Cloud Systems Engineer

Quanex

Rice Lake, WI • On-site

$92K - $112K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Support the deployment, maintenance, and support of cloud and on-premises system infrastructures.

  • Monitor system performance, identify issues, and perform root cause analysis to implement corrective measures.

  • Design and implement system improvements and support major IT infrastructure projects.


Quanex rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

461st of 545 rated manufacturers


Job description

Quanex is looking for a Cloud Systems Engineer in Cambridge, OH, Houston, TX, Owatonna, MN, Rice Lake, WI, Akron, OH or in Sioux Falls, SD.

The Cloud Systems Engineer will play an integral role in supporting the systems engineering activities of the organization with a key focus on the deployment of system infrastructures. The successful candidate will be a key contributor to many IT infrastructure projects.

We Offer You! 

  • Competitive Salary
  • 401K Match w/ 2-year vesting period
  • Bonus Potential
  • Medical, Dental & Vision Plans
  • Paid Time Off & Holidays
  • Various Work Schedules
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Wellness/Fitness Resources
  • Training/Development
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Dynamic Culture & People - just to name a few!

What’s attractive about the Cloud Systems Engineer position? 

  • Opportunity to work with modern Microsoft Cloud technologies 
  • Hands-on role with meaningful technical ownership across cloud and on-premises infrastructure
  • Collaboration with internal teams and external technology partners
  • Exposure to major IT infrastructure projects

What Success Looks Like: 

  • Cloud environments are effectively engineered, maintained, planned, and supported.
  • Provides advanced technical support and effectively manages ServiceNow incidents.
  • Proactively monitors system performance, identifies potential issues, and addresses them accordingly.
  • Performs effective root cause analysis on failed system components and implements corrective measures.
  • Successfully designs and implements system improvements.
  • Major IT infrastructure projects are successfully implemented and rolled out.
  • Provides clear and detailed technical documentation and knowledge materials.
  • Maintains strong relationships with staff, contracting agencies, and outsourced service providers.
  • Demonstrates a strong customer service-oriented attitude when supporting users and resolving IT issues.
  • Uses strong analytical and technical skills to resolve issues with a strong sense of urgency, especially those that could impact the business.
  • Effectively participates in disaster recovery exercises and helps support business continuity.
  • Uses PowerShell scripting and coding skills to support systems administration and improve processes.
  • Successfully works with limited direction while delivering results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Is willing and able to travel up to 10% and work extended hours/weekends as needed to support business and infrastructure needs.

What You Bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field. Will consider years of experience in lieu of degree.
  • Microsoft or other relevant IT certifications are preferred.
  • 5-7 years of experience in Windows Server and Active Directory administration.
  • Experience administering public cloud environments, Azure preferred.
  • Experience with PowerShell and other programming/scripting languages.
  • Experience with Enterprise level Identity Management using Azure.
  • Working knowledge of LAN/WAN networking to supporting server and Active Directory.
  • Experience with enterprise backups and disaster recovery strategies.
  • Intermediate knowledge of and ability to implement semi-complex IT security best practices.
  • Experience with enterprise-grade monitoring, alerting, and management platforms such as System Center, Solar Winds Orion, Splunk, etc.

The salary range for this position is $92K-$112K with the potential to earn an annual

About Quanex, A Part of Something Bigger

Quanex (NYSE: NX) is a global, publicly traded manufacturing company primarily serving OEMs in the fenestration, cabinetry, solar, refrigeration and outdoor products markets. We are A Part of Something Bigger by improving the performance and aesthetics of end products through continuous innovation, helping customers achieve greater production efficiencies, dedication to giving back to communities where we operate, producing shareholder value and helping our employees learn, grow, and thrive. Learn more at Quanex.com.

#LI-MB1

Company Description

With locations around the world, Quanex Building Products Corporation is an industry-leading manufacturer of components sold to Original Equipment Manufacturers in the building products industry. Quanex designs and produces energy-efficient fenestration products in addition to kitchen and bath cabinet components.


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