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Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

iFlow Inc

Industrial Automation Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

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

Industrial Automation Engineer

Lexington, NC · On-site

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 ...

Nucor

Industrial Automation Engineer

Lexington, NC · On-site

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 ...

OP Mobility

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION ENGINEER

Troy, MI · On-site

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

OPmobility

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION ENGINEER

Troy, MI · On-site

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 ...

OPmobility

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION ENGINEER

Troy, MI · On-site

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 ...

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Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer information

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$51.5K

$93.2K

$124K

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

As of Jul 29, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer, and why are they important?

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 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.

More about Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Industrial Automation Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Industrial Automation Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs are:
Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Industrial Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,222 per year, or $44.8 per hour.

Industrial Automation Engineer

LanceSoft Inc.

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an experienced Industrial Automation Engineer to support the design, development, commissioning, and optimization of industrial automation systems in a high-volume manufacturing environment. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in Beckhoff PLCs, TwinCAT 3, Structured Text programming, and multi-axis motion control with the ability to troubleshoot and enhance existing PLC code.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, program, and maintain PLC applications using Beckhoff TwinCAT 3 and Structured Text.
  • Develop and optimize multi-axis motion control applications for automated manufacturing systems.
  • Commission, debug, troubleshoot, and enhance PLC-controlled equipment.
  • Analyze and improve existing PLC code, including legacy and inherited automation programs.
  • Support system integration, equipment testing, and production startup activities.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to improve automation performance and reliability.
  • Document automation logic, system changes, and engineering best practices.
  • Participate in root cause analysis and implement corrective actions to improve system uptime.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor''s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation Engineering, or related field.
  • 5+ years of PLC programming experience.
  • Strong expertise with Beckhoff PLCs and TwinCAT 3.
  • Extensive experience with Structured Text (IEC 61131-3) programming.
  • Strong background in multi-axis motion control systems.
  • Experience commissioning, debugging, troubleshooting, and supporting automated manufacturing equipment.
  • Ability to work with existing/legacy PLC code and implement enhancements.
  • Excellent analytical and troubleshooting skills.
  • Ability to work onsite in Cupertino, CA or San Diego, CA.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in consumer electronics or high-volume manufacturing.
  • Experience working with collaborative robots (Cobots).
  • Knowledge of PLC code version control, governance, and configuration management.
  • Familiarity with industrial communication protocols and automation best practices
LanceSoft logo

About LanceSoft

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Established in 2000, LanceSoft is a Certified MBE and Woman-Owned organization. Lancesoft Inc. is one of the highest rated companies in the industry. We have been recognized as one of the Largest Staffing firms and ranked in the top 50 fastest Growing Healthcare Staffing firms in 2022. Lancesoft offers short- and long-term contracts, permanent placements, and travel opportunities to credentialed and experienced professionals throughout the United States. We pride ourselves on having industry leading benefits. We understand the importance of partnering with an expert who values your needs, which is why we're 100% committed to finding you an assignment that best matches your career and lifestyle goals. Our team of experienced career specialists takes the time to understand your needs and match you with the right job Lancesoft has been chosen by Staffing Industry Analysts as one of the Best Staffing Firms to Work for.LanceSoft specializes in providing Registered Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, LPNs/LVNs, Social Workers, Medical Assistants, and Certified Nursing Assistants to work in Acute Care Centers, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Long-Term Care centers, Rehab Facilities, Behavioral Health Centers, Drug & Alcohol Facilities, Home Health & Community Health, Urgent Care Clinics, and many other provider-based facilities.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2000

Social media

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