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Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Industrial Automation Engineer Location:Cupertino or San Diego, CA Duration: Fulltime only Must-haves: 7+ years of PLC programming experience, with strong focus on Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 / Structured ...

Nucor Steel Lexington is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Industrial Automation Engineer. Duties include: * Design, implement, and configure new automation systems, upgrade older ...

Industrial Automation Technician/Engineer Location: Onsite, Leetsdale, Pittsburgh Employment Type: Full Time Company: Impact Guard, website: WHO WE ARE Impact Guard's vision is to build a Great ...

Automation Engineer Work Location: • Greer, SC or Troy, MI • This person will transfer ... Customer/Industrial projects activities Validate technical feasibility of Vision PLC & Robotics ...

Title: Automation Engineer Work Location: Greer, SC or Troy, MI This person will transfer ... Elaborate and transfers the technical data to the development, industrial and/or plant teams, with ...

Automation Engineer Work Location: • Greer, SC or Troy, MI • This person will transfer ... Elaborate and transfers the technical data to the development, industrial and/or plant teams, with ...

$140 - $165/hr

Machina Labs is seeking a Senior Industrial Automation Engineer to help design, develop, and deploy the automation systems that power our next-generation robotic manufacturing platform. In this role ...

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Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer information

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$51.5K

$93.2K

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

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance industrial automation engineer in the United States is $93,222.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a freelance industrial automation engineer do?

A Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer designs, develops, tests, and implements automated systems and processes for industrial settings on a contract basis. They work with clients from various industries to optimize production efficiency, reduce human error, and improve safety using technologies such as PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, and sensors. Their responsibilities may include system integration, troubleshooting, programming, and providing technical support or training. As freelancers, they often manage multiple projects and clients independently, offering flexibility and specialized expertise.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation systems, and control theory, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and practical experience. Proficiency with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI interfaces, and certifications such as Siemens, Rockwell, or ISA are often required. Strong problem-solving, client communication, and project management skills help set you apart in freelance roles. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering reliable automation solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance industrial automation engineers when managing multiple projects for different clients?

Freelance industrial automation engineers often juggle several projects simultaneously, each with its own set of requirements, timelines, and client expectations. Managing these diverse projects can be challenging due to varying communication styles, differing technical standards, and the need to stay updated on multiple control systems and software platforms. Effective time management, clear documentation, and strong organizational skills are essential to ensure deadlines are met and quality is maintained. Additionally, freelancers must proactively communicate with clients to clarify project scopes and promptly address any issues that arise.

What is the difference between Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer vs Industrial Automation Technician?

AspectFreelance Industrial Automation EngineerIndustrial Automation Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like PLC or SCADA programmingUsually holds technical diplomas or certifications in automation or electronics
Work EnvironmentWorks independently on projects, often remotely or on-site for clientsWorks primarily on-site maintaining and troubleshooting automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageServes multiple clients across industries like manufacturing, energy, and roboticsEmployed by companies or contractors to support automation systems in factories

The main difference is that Freelance Industrial Automation Engineers design and develop automation solutions independently, often working on diverse projects, while Industrial Automation Technicians focus on maintaining and troubleshooting existing automation systems within a specific facility or company.

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Cities with the most Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer job openings:

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What states have the most Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs include:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,222 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Industrial Automation Engineer

Matrix Technologies

Edina, MN • On-site

$79 - $101/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Industrial Automation Engineer

Join our team as an Industrial Automation Engineer! This is a hybrid role based out of our Minneapolis, MN office. The position is salaried and includes eligibility for overtime pay.

Industrial Automation Engineers at Matrix Technologies work on a variety of automation projects in multiple industries, ultimately solving client problems through the design, programming, testing, and commissioning of PLC-based control systems.

Industrial Automation Engineers in this position work on projects in a team environment under the direction and mentorship of a more senior-level Industrial Automation Engineer. Project work involves a variety of clients in multiple industries using various control platforms. Industrial Automation Engineers interface with both external clients as well as other internal engineering disciplines within the Matrix organization to gather field data, prepare functional specifications, write PLC code, develop HMI graphics, perform client acceptance testing, and start‑up new automation systems.

Key Responsibilities
  • This position is responsible for assisting the project team with the software development process associated with both existing and new PLC‑based control systems. These systems often include the design of new Operator graphic screens, interfaces to other control systems, and interfaces to external computing platforms.
  • As a member of the Industrial Systems Automation team, this position includes assisting more senior engineers with preparing the project functional specification, project test specifications, developing PLC code, developing HMI graphics, executing a software Factory Acceptance Test, and performing on‑site commissioning and start‑up.
  • Project work associated with this position will vary and may involve control system upgrades, control system expansions, and/or new control system deployments.
  • Responsible for control system check‑out, commissioning, and on‑site start‑up activities.
  • Prepare project correspondence as needed.
  • Maintain positive client relationships on projects assigned.
Qualifications
  • Four or more years’ experience as an Industrial Automation Engineer or equivalent.
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Computer Technology, or related field from an ABET‑accredited college or university preferred.
  • Minimum of four years of PLC/HMI programming, automation, electrical troubleshooting and start‑up experience.
  • Preference will be given to candidates with Allen‑Bradley, Rockwell Automation, Siemens, and Aveva experience.
  • Experience with motion control including coordinated motion, Variable Frequency Drive control systems, and servo drive control systems is a plus.
  • Varied industrial background is a plus. Key industries include food, chemical, pharmaceutical, and manufacturing.
  • Ability to develop high‑quality, error‑free industrial software programs in keeping with the defined project requirements.
  • Ability to travel approximately 25%, both locally and overnight.
Physical Requirements
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; stoop, kneel, crouch; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands and arms; talk, and hear.
  • The employee must frequently lift and/or move objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move objects up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • This employee may perform industrial field work which could include exposure to hazardous locations, inclement weather, moving mechanical parts, noise, ladders, uneven ground, and stairs.
  • This employee may perform industrial field work which could include exposure to a wide range of known food allergens.
Benefits Physical and Mental Wellness and Work/Life Balance
  • Health Insurance with Prescription Drug Coverage, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off (Extra Days for Purchase) and Nine Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave, Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Schedules, Work at Home Options
  • Wellness Program with Incentive Dollars, Preventative Health Screenings
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Critical Illness and Accident Insurance
Financial Wellness
  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • 401(k) and Roth Plans with 5% Match and immediate vesting upon enrollment
  • Market‑based competitive Compensation and Overtime Pay for Salaried positions
  • Quarterly Bonus Program and Spot Bonus Program
  • Pre‑Tax Health Savings Account (HSA) with Match, and Pre‑Tax Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Life Insurance Paid by Matrix and Buy‑Up Options
  • Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability Plan Paid by Matrix
Personal and Professional Growth
  • Technical, Managerial, and Administrative Career Paths
  • Onboarding and Mentoring, Internal Training and Cross Training
  • PE Certifications, Registration, and Renewals
  • Assessments and Leadership Development
  • External Certification Programs, Professional Memberships
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
Recognition, Culture, and Other Perks
  • Regular Employee Updates and Town Halls, Annual Engagement Surveys
  • Employee Service Awards and Peer Recognition
  • Strong Fundamentals (Core Values)
  • Employee Referral Program/Bonus
  • Casual Dress
  • Discount Programs
  • Community Involvement Committee
  • Sports Teams and Clubs

We offer market‑competitive compensation for an Industrial Automation Engineer with a base range $79,000 to $101,000 annually/hourly, and a total compensation package that includes profit sharing, ESOP participation, 401(k) matching, and overtime pay. Salaries are based on experience, skills, and qualifications.

Matrix Technologies, Inc. is committed to a policy of Equal Employment Opportunity and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. The information collected by this application is solely to determine suitability for employment, verify identity and maintain employment statistics on applicants.

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