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Freelance Plant Layout Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Electra

Industrial Systems Designer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Develop and refine industrial system and plant layout designs using 3D modeling software based on defined process requirements, equipment lists, and functional design criteria * Create and maintain ...

System One Holdings, LLC

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

Electra

Industrial Systems Designer

Boulder, CO

$133K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Develop and refine industrial system and plant layout designs using 3D modeling software based on defined process requirements, equipment lists, and functional design criteria * Create and maintain ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

AtkinsRéalis

Lead Layout Mechanical Designer

Henderson, NV · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview We are seeking a Lead Layout Designer to join our team in Henderson, NV to support the continued growth of its Plant Engineering - Minerals & Metals business. The Henderson office supports ...

SNC-Lavalin

Lead Layout Mechanical Designer

Henderson, NV

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Overview We are seeking a Lead Layout Designer to join our team in Henderson, NV to support the continued growth of its Plant Engineering - Minerals & Metals business. The Henderson office supports ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

System One

Senior Piping Designer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$50 - $70/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Lead and execute plant layout design activities, ensuring constructability, safety, maintainability, and compliance with applicable codes and standards. * Support the Department Manager with ...

Drawbridge

Plant Designer

Englewood, CO

$127K/yr

Plant Designer - Mining & Minerals Location: Greenwood Village, Colorado Employment Type: Full-Time ... The ideal candidate will have strong 3D modeling and plant layout experience, a solid understanding ...

Drawbridge

Plant Designer

Englewood, CO · On-site

$127K/yr

Plant Designer - Mining & Minerals Location: Greenwood Village, Colorado Employment Type: Full-Time ... The ideal candidate will have strong 3D modeling and plant layout experience, a solid understanding ...

Polaris

Senior Piping Designer

Lake Charles, LA · On-site

Ownership of plant layout and design * Maintains and promotes a focus on Polaris' products, whether engineering, fabrication, or construction * Piping Designer ensures effective communication among ...

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All JobsPlant Layout Designer JobsFreelance Plant Layout Designer Jobs

Freelance Plant Layout Designer information

See salary details

$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance plant layout designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance plant layout designer in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance plant layout designer?

Freelance plant layout designers are professionals who specialize in creating efficient and functional layouts for manufacturing plants, warehouses, or industrial facilities on a contract or project basis rather than as full-time employees. They analyze workflow, space requirements, and equipment placement to optimize processes and safety within the facility. By working independently, they often collaborate with engineers, architects, and clients to deliver customized solutions tailored to specific production needs. Their expertise helps businesses maximize productivity, minimize waste, and ensure compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Freelance Plant Layout Designer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Plant Layout DesignerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsDesign certifications, CAD skillsEngineering degrees, technical licenses
Work EnvironmentFreelance, client sites, design studiosIndustrial, manufacturing, office settings
Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, food processing plantsAutomotive, aerospace, machinery

While both roles involve technical expertise, Freelance Plant Layout Designers focus on creating efficient plant layouts using CAD tools, often working independently with clients. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, including designing machinery and systems, typically working within companies or engineering firms. The main difference lies in specialization and work environment, with Freelance Plant Layout Designers emphasizing layout design and client-based projects.

What are some common challenges freelance plant layout designers face when collaborating with remote clients?

Freelance plant layout designers often work with clients who are not on-site, which can make communication and understanding project requirements more challenging. Misinterpretations of spatial constraints or workflow needs may occur without direct site visits, so designers must rely heavily on detailed documentation, clear visualizations, and frequent virtual meetings. Additionally, coordinating revisions and obtaining timely feedback can be more complex compared to in-house roles, making proactive project management and regular updates essential for success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance plant layout designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Plant Layout Designer, you need strong spatial awareness, technical drawing skills, and a background in engineering or industrial design. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or Plant 3D) and relevant industry standards or certifications are typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These combined abilities ensure the creation of efficient, safe, and cost-effective plant layouts that meet client requirements and industry regulations.
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Cities with the most Freelance Plant Layout Designer job openings:

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Freelance Plant Layout Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Plant Layout Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Industrial Systems Designer

Electra

Boulder, CO • On-site

$133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Who we are:
Electra is reinventing ironmaking from the ground up with a breakthrough electrochemical technology that produces high-purity, clean iron and critical co-minerals. With two operating pilots in Boulder and a new demonstration facility underway in Jefferson County, we're on track to reach commercial scale by the end of the decade. Backed by over $300 million and strategic partnerships with global leaders across mining, steel, and big tech, momentum is on our side. Recognized by Fast Company as a Most Innovative Company and a Next Big Thing in Tech, and named one of TIME's 100 Climate Leaders, we're building a company shaping the future of industry. If you're looking to make an impact and join a team that's driven, focused, and scaling, we want to hear from you.
What you will do:
As an Industrial Systems Designer, you will design, develop, and document plant systems for Electra's pilot and industrial-scale operations. This role focuses on supporting the development of robust, cost-effective mechanical systems that enable efficient plant performance and reliable operation
Responsibilities include:
  • Develop and refine industrial system and plant layout designs using 3D modeling software based on defined process requirements, equipment lists, and functional design criteria
  • Create and maintain designs and documentation packages for process equipment, skid-mounted systems, tanks, piping, vessels, and associated mechanical, process, instrumentation, and automation systems
  • Apply engineering judgment and problem-solving skills to evaluate design challenges, identify root causes, and develop practical solutions within pilot plant and industrial processing environments
  • Support the development and continuous improvement of pilot plant processing system designs, layouts, and associated engineering documentation
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with process engineers, controls engineers, equipment suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to support installation, startup, commissioning, and issue resolution activities
  • Prepare and maintain general arrangement drawings, piping isometrics, equipment layouts, plan and elevation views, and routing designs using CAD tools for both in-house fabrication and site installation activities
  • Integrate OEM and supplier equipment into broader mechanical and process system designs while ensuring alignment with operational, safety, and functional requirements
  • Utilize PDM/Vault systems to manage revision control, release workflows, engineering documentation, and libraries of 3D models and components
  • Exercise independent judgment in evaluating design approaches, adapting existing solutions, and resolving issues of diverse scope within established engineering practices
  • Build effective working relationships across technical and operational teams while communicating complex design information to varied audiences
  • Read, understand, and comply with workplace health and safety policies, procedures, and safe work practices
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor

What we need you to bring to the team:
Level III Qualifications
  • Associate's degree in Design with 7+ years of professional experience in plant design, industrial systems integration, or equipment layout; OR Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 5+ years of related professional experience (excluding internships, co-ops, and academic projects)
  • Complete knowledge and practical application of industrial design principles, plant layout practices, and mechanical system integration within processing, manufacturing, chemical, minerals, or similar industrial environments
  • Experience developing industrial system layouts, equipment arrangements, and engineering solutions for complex processing or manufacturing operations
  • Proficiency creating 3D equipment layouts, piping and duct routing, and general arrangement drawings using SolidWorks or similar CAD platforms
  • Experience designing or supporting skid-mounted systems, process equipment, tanks, vessels, piping systems, and structural frameworks
  • Working knowledge of integrating automation hardware and controls systems into industrial or process system designs
  • Ability to assess unusual design conditions, evaluate multiple variables, and apply sound technical judgment to develop practical and scalable engineering solutions
  • Ability to work independently on assignments of diverse scope while adapting existing approaches and resolving issues through analysis, evaluation, and interpretation of engineering information
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills with the ability to work effectively across cross-functional teams, suppliers, contractors, and technical stakeholders
  • Understanding of ergonomics, operational safety principles, and industrial design best practices within pilot plant or industrial processing environments

Senior Level Qualifications
  • Associate's degree in Design with 10+ years of progressive experience in industrial plant design, systems integration, equipment layout, or related disciplines; OR Bachelor's degree in Engineering with 8+ years of related professional experience (excluding internships, co-ops, and academic projects)
  • Advanced knowledge and practical application of industrial design principles, plant layout methodologies, and mechanical systems integration within processing, manufacturing, chemical, mining, metals, minerals, or similar industrial environments
  • Demonstrated experience leading the design and execution of complex industrial systems and plant layouts from concept through detailed design with minimal technical oversight
  • Experience serving as a technical lead on multidisciplinary projects, coordinating design activities across engineering disciplines while balancing scope, schedule, and technical requirements
  • Experience mentoring junior designers and engineers through technical guidance, design reviews, problem-solving, and development of engineering best practices
  • Advanced proficiency creating complex 3D equipment layouts, piping and duct routing, general arrangement drawings, and detailed manufacturing documentation using SolidWorks, Plant 3D, or comparable CAD platforms
  • Extensive experience designing process equipment, skid-mounted systems, tanks, vessels, piping systems, structural frameworks, and industrial equipment installations
  • Strong understanding of automation hardware, instrumentation, and controls integration within industrial processing systems
  • Demonstrated ability to evaluate complex technical challenges, assess multiple design alternatives, and apply sound engineering judgment to develop practical, scalable, and maintainable solutions
  • Proven ability to independently manage multiple concurrent projects and deliver high-quality engineering solutions with minimal direction in a fast-paced technical environment
  • Excellent collaboration, communication, and technical leadership skills with experience working effectively across engineering disciplines, operations, suppliers, contractors, and external partners
  • Strong understanding of industrial safety, ergonomics, operability, maintainability, and constructability principles, with experience incorporating these considerations throughout the design process
  • Experience supporting equipment procurement, construction, commissioning, startup, and field troubleshooting is highly desirable
  • Experience working in pilot plant, first-of-a-kind, or rapidly evolving technology environments where engineering solutions must adapt alongside process development

What we want you to bring to the team:
  • Experience serving as a technical lead, coordinating design activities across multiple engineering disciplines and driving projects to successful completion
  • Experience mentoring and providing technical guidance to junior designers and engineers, including design reviews and best practice development
  • Advanced proficiency with AutoCAD P&ID, Plant 3D, or equivalent industrial plant design software
  • Extensive experience developing complex 3D plant layouts, equipment arrangements, piping systems, and routing solutions for industrial processing facilities
  • Experience integrating automation hardware, controls systems, robotics, or instrumentation into industrial plant designs
  • Experience designing systems for corrosive chemicals, aggressive media, or other demanding industrial process environments
  • Familiarity with heavy industrial facilities such as mining, metals, minerals processing, chemical manufacturing, oil & gas, or power generation
  • Experience supporting EPC projects, commissioning, plant construction, and field installation activities
  • Strong understanding of industrial design principles, including safety, operability, maintainability, accessibility, and ergonomics
  • Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks, including PDM/Vault administration, engineering change management, revision control, and release processes
  • Experience working in a startup, pilot plant, or rapidly evolving technology organizations, where design solutions evolve alongside process development

Compensation:
  • This position may be filled at either the Level III or Senior level based on the selected candidate's qualifications. The anticipated starting base salary range is $95,000-$150,000. Starting pay will be determined by the level hired, relevant skills, experience, education, and overall qualifications. Compensation within the range is based on the scope and complexity of a candidate's experience and demonstrated capabilities. Placement near the upper end of the range is typically reserved for candidates who bring extensive relevant experience, demonstrated technical leadership, and specialized or niche expertise that is highly aligned with the Senior-level expectations of the role.

Benefits For You:
  • 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, short-term disability, long-term disability, and basic life insurance plans
  • $1,800 in annual employer HSA contributions (health savings account)

Benefits For Your Family:
  • 100% paid premiums across all medical, dental, vision, and telemedicine plans
  • 12 weeks of paid parental leave

Benefits For Your Future:
  • 401k with up to 5% matching contributions which vest 100% on day one
  • Eligibility for incentive stock options

If you need an accommodation during the application or interview process, reach out to us at careers@electra.earth We're here to help.

Apply