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Freelance Dcs Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Danaher

Automation Engineer (DCS)

Muskegon, MI · On-site

The Automation Engineer (DCS) role will support Cytiva's new plant for manufacturing of chromatography resins located in Muskegon, MI. This exciting role will lead start-up and establishment of ...

Danaher

Automation Engineer (DCS)

Muskegon, MI · On-site

The Automation Engineer (DCS) role will support Cytiva's new plant for manufacturing of chromatography resins located in Muskegon, MI. This exciting role will lead start-up and establishment of ...

R.E. Mason

Automation Engineer - DCS

Elkton, VA · On-site

$50K - $200K/yr

The Automation Engineer will work in the development, delivery, and commissioning of ... Implement control strategies within the DeltaV DCS that are used to interface with and control ...

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Freelance Dcs Automation Engineer information

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$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do freelance dcs automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance dcs automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance DCS automation engineer?

A Freelance DCS Automation Engineer is an independent professional who specializes in designing, implementing, and maintaining Distributed Control Systems (DCS) for industrial processes. They work on a contract basis for various clients, providing expertise in configuring control systems to automate and monitor manufacturing or production environments. Their role often includes programming controllers, troubleshooting system issues, integrating hardware and software, and ensuring optimal system performance. Freelance DCS Automation Engineers may work remotely or on-site, depending on project requirements and client needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance DCS automation engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance DCS Automation Engineer, you need expertise in distributed control systems (DCS), process automation, and strong engineering fundamentals, usually supported by a degree in engineering and experience with industrial automation. Familiarity with major DCS platforms (such as Siemens, Emerson, or ABB), programming languages (like PLC and SCADA), and relevant certifications (e.g., ISA Certified Automation Professional) is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to work independently are essential soft skills in this freelance role. These skills ensure successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and adaptability to varied automation environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance DCS automation engineers, and how can they be managed effectively?

Freelance DCS Automation Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating with existing client teams, adapting to various Distributed Control System (DCS) platforms, and managing project deadlines independently. To address these, it's important to develop strong communication skills, stay current with multiple DCS technologies, and use project management tools to track progress and deliverables. Building a reliable professional network can also help with troubleshooting and knowledge sharing, making it easier to deliver high-quality solutions to clients.

What is the difference between Freelance Dcs Automation Engineer vs DCS Control Technician?

AspectFreelance Dcs Automation EngineerDCS Control Technician
CredentialsTypically requires engineering degrees and certifications in automation and control systemsUsually holds technical diplomas or certifications in control systems and maintenance
Work EnvironmentProject-based, often remote or on-site at client facilities, working on system design and programmingPrimarily on-site, focusing on system troubleshooting, maintenance, and operation
Employer & IndustryFreelance consultants or contractors serving industries like oil & gas, manufacturing, power plantsIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, and power stations

In summary, Freelance Dcs Automation Engineers focus on designing and programming control systems on a project basis, often working remotely or at client sites. DCS Control Technicians primarily handle system maintenance and troubleshooting on-site. Both roles require knowledge of control systems but differ in scope, credentials, and work environment.

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Freelance Dcs Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Dcs Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,126 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Automation Engineer (DCS/DeltaV) - Bioprocess Manufacturing Support - (JP15648)

3 Key Consulting

Thousand Oaks, CA

$40 - $46/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and support process control applications via DCS, HMI, SCADA, and PLC systems.

  • Collaborate with scientific and operational staff to translate process requirements into automation and engineering design.

  • Participate in technical root cause analysis, incident investigations, and troubleshooting on process control issues.

Job description

Job Title: Automation Engineer (DCS/DeltaV) - Bioprocess Manufacturing Support - (JP15648)
Location: Thousand Oaks, CA. 91320
Employment Type: Contract
Business Unit: Advanced Technology & Automation
Duration: 1+ year (with likely extensions and/or conversion to permanent)
Posting Date: 07/30/2026
Pay Rate: $40 - $46/hour W2 with benefits
Notes: Only qualified candidates need apply.  Monday - Friday - 8am - 5:00pm. Must be willing to be on call - After hours support once every 6 weeks (Manufacturing calls that come in, resolve any issues that come up) - 1 call per week (call is 2 hours)
3 Key Consulting is hiring an Senior DeltaV/DCS Automation Engineer – Bioprocess Manufacturing Support for a consulting engagement with our direct client, a leading global biopharmaceutical company.
Job Description:
Our client is seeking an External Automation Engineer based in Thousand Oaks, California to augment their MCS F&E Automation team. This role will support ongoing biological processes by updating, maintaining, and improving DeltaV automation systems, and providing critical site support. The successful candidate must exhibit sound analytical thinking and problem-solving skills, exemplary communication and collaboration, and operational excellence. A proven ability to work in cross-functional teams is critical for this role.
Why is the Position Open?
Supplement additional workload on team
Top Must Have Skills:
  • Strong control system automation background in design, installation, programming, and validation of automated processes.
  • Ability to read and follow electrical and P&ID drawings.
  • Must be independent, self-motivated, organized, and able to multi-task.

Day to Day Responsibilities:
  • Develop and support process control applications via Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Human Machine Interfaces (HMI), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition systems (SCADA), and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
  • Collaborate with scientific and operational staff to help translate process requirements into automation and engineering design.
  • Participate in technical root cause analysis, incident investigations, and troubleshooting on process control issues related to instrumentation and control systems.
  • Design and test of automated process equipment. Support new product and technology introductions by performing engineering assessments, implementing automation system configuration changes, and supporting engineering runs.
  • Support capital projects by applying advanced automation engineering principles in the design, specification, configuration, startup, and commissioning of process equipment and systems for capital projects of significant scope and complexity. Demonstrated understanding of project life cycles is preferred. Candidate should be familiar with engineering processes from initial conceptualization through project turnover to operations.
  • Development of detailed specification, engineering documents, SOPs, and operating standards.

Basic Qualifications:
Master degree OR Bachelor degree and 2 years of experience OR Associate degree and 6 years of experience OR High school diploma / GED and 8 years of experience
Preferred Qualifications:
  • *Education: B.S or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Biotech, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related technical field that reviews automation or engineering control.
  • Working knowledge on networking and virtual server architecture
  • Strong control system automation background in design, installation, programming, and validation of automated processes.
  • Working knowledge of manufacturing IT networks and network communication (TCP/IP, Profibus, Ethernet, wireless, fieldbus, WAGO IO, etc.)
  • Ability to read and follow electrical and P&ID drawings.
  • Direct experience with bioprocess unit operations such as bioreactors, chromatography, filtration, et cetera.
  • Strong communication/presentation skills especially with engineering documentation.
  • *Must have knowledge level to independently coordinate with vendors to renew service
  • *Must be independent, self-motivated, organized, and able to multi-task.
  • *Engineering experience- from college grad to 2 years
  • *Must be willing to be on call

Red Flags:
  • Inability to discuss skills listed on their resume during the job interview
  • Multiple short contracts

Interview process:
  • Virtual interview with manager
  • Vqirtual interview with team members next

We invite qualified candidates to send your resume to resumes@3keyconsulting.com.  If you decide that you’re not interested in pursuing this particular position, please feel free to take a look at the other positions on our website www.3keyconsulting.com/careers. You are also welcome to share this opportunity with anyone you think might be interested in applying for this role.