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Freelance Control Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Control Systems Engineer As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

The team is seeking an exceptional control systems engineer with broad skills to design and develop the next generation of camera technology. As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved ...

MSCCN

Control Systems Engineer

Orange, TX · On-site

Control Systems Engineer As the Control Systems Engineer you will be responsible for managing, coordinating and developing all aspects of Continuous Emission Monitoring Systems and Distributive ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

The team is seeking an exceptional control systems engineer with broad skills to design and develop the next generation of camera technology. As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will be involved ...

Thermo Systems

... control systems integration partner, delivering world-class automation solutions in the District Energy, Life Sciences, and Mission Critical markets. Our diverse leadership and dedicated engineering ...

Apple

Control Systems Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA · On-site

$181K - $318K/yr

The team is seeking an exceptional control systems engineer with broad skills to design and develop the next generation of camera technology. Description As a Camera System Controls Engineer you will ...

Thermo Systems

Control Systems Engineer

East Windsor, NJ · On-site

... control systems integration partner, delivering world-class automation solutions in the District Energy, Life Sciences, and Mission Critical markets. Our diverse leadership and dedicated engineering ...

Thermo Systems

Control Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

... control systems integration partner, delivering world-class automation solutions in the District Energy, Life Sciences, and Mission Critical markets. Our diverse leadership and dedicated engineering ...

Thermo Systems

Control Systems Engineer

Duquesne, PA · On-site

... control systems integration partner, delivering world-class automation solutions in the District Energy, Life Sciences, and Mission Critical markets. Our diverse leadership and dedicated engineering ...

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All JobsFreelance Control Systems Engineer Jobs

Freelance Control Systems Engineer information

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$61K

$108.8K

$175.5K

How much do freelance control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance control systems engineer in the United States is $108,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Control Systems Engineer vs Control Systems Technician?

AspectFreelance Control Systems EngineerControl Systems Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like PLC or SCADA are commonTechnical diploma or associate degree; specialized training in control systems
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site at client facilitiesOn-site at industrial plants or manufacturing facilities
Employer & IndustryIndependent contractors serving multiple clients across industriesEmployers in manufacturing, automation, and industrial sectors
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for freelance control system design, integration, or consultingSeeking maintenance, troubleshooting, or installation of control systems

The main difference is that Freelance Control Systems Engineers focus on designing and integrating control systems independently, often working on a project basis, while Control Systems Technicians handle installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting within industrial settings. Both roles require technical knowledge, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Control Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Control Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or automation engineering, proficiency in system design, and experience with PLCs and SCADA systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with industry-standard tools such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric platforms, and certifications like ISA CAP or TUV Functional Safety are typically valuable. Strong problem-solving, self-management, and communication skills help in managing projects independently and collaborating with diverse clients. These skills are crucial for delivering reliable automation solutions, meeting client expectations, and maintaining a competitive edge in a dynamic freelance market.

How does a Freelance Control Systems Engineer typically collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams during a project?

As a Freelance Control Systems Engineer, you often work closely with clients to define project specifications, provide technical consultation, and ensure deliverables align with their operational needs. Collaboration frequently involves remote meetings, regular progress reports, and integration with other engineering disciplines such as mechanical, electrical, and software teams. Effective communication and flexibility are essential, as you may need to adapt to different workflows and project management tools set by various clients. Building strong client relationships and demonstrating reliability can lead to repeat business and referrals.

What is a Freelance Control Systems Engineer?

A Freelance Control Systems Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery or processes, typically working on a contract or project basis rather than as a permanent employee. These engineers often work with automation systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or transportation. Their responsibilities include programming controllers, troubleshooting control systems, and ensuring optimal system performance. As freelancers, they enjoy flexibility in choosing projects and clients, but they also manage their own business operations, such as client communication and billing.
More about Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Control Systems Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Systems Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Control Systems Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Control Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Control Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,776 per year, or $52.3 per hour.
Control Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Control Systems Engineer
As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine performance, productivity, automation, and operator experience.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement control systems for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain, and machine implement systems.
  • Create and maintain control system models using MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Perform simulations and virtual testing to evaluate system performance.
  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, and control system tuning.
  • Analyze machine and sensor data to improve system performance and reliability.
  • Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions.
  • Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements.
  • Support product development activities from concept through production.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation related to control system development and testing.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
  • Understanding of control systems, hydraulics, powertrain systems, robotics, or vehicle dynamics.
  • Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience designing, implementing, or validating control systems.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, Simscape, or similar modeling and simulation tools.
  • Experience with embedded software development or controls integration.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic systems, powertrain systems, robotics, or autonomous machine technologies.
  • Experience operating, testing, or developing construction, agricultural, mining, or other off-highway equipment.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensor technologies, and machine diagnostics.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$100,000 - Commensurate with experience
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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