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Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programming Jobs in Waterloo, IL

Project Experience in Industrial Automation platforms (Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC), Distributed Control Systems (DCS), Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) and/or Process ...

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Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programming information

See Waterloo, IL salary details

$37.5K

$74.7K

$103.7K

How much do freelance plc ladder logic programming jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance plc ladder logic programming in Waterloo, IL is $74,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,000.00 and $85,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance PLC ladder logic programming?

Freelance PLC Ladder Logic Programming is a specialized service where independent professionals design, develop, and troubleshoot control systems using ladder logic for Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs). These freelancers work on a project-by-project basis, often helping manufacturers and industrial firms automate machinery and processes. Their responsibilities typically include writing and testing ladder logic code, integrating hardware, and ensuring systems run efficiently and safely. This work requires strong knowledge of electrical engineering, industrial automation, and specific PLC brands. Clients benefit from hiring freelancers for flexible, cost-effective solutions tailored to their automation needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance PLC ladder logic programmer?

To thrive as a Freelance PLC Ladder Logic Programmer, you need strong knowledge of PLC programming concepts, electrical engineering fundamentals, and experience with industrial automation systems, often supported by a degree or relevant certifications. Familiarity with popular PLC platforms (such as Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider Electric), ladder logic software tools, and SCADA/HMI systems is essential. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective client communication are crucial soft skills for managing projects and meeting client needs. These skills ensure accurate system design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful project delivery in diverse industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance PLC ladder logic programmers when working with clients remotely?

Freelance PLC Ladder Logic programmers often encounter challenges such as unclear project specifications, limited access to physical hardware for testing, and communication barriers with clients who may not have technical backgrounds. To address these, it's important to establish clear communication channels, use simulation tools for initial testing, and set expectations regarding project timelines and hardware requirements. Proactively sharing progress updates and documentation can also help build trust and ensure smoother project delivery.

What is the difference between Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programming vs PLC Technician?

AspectFreelance Plc Ladder Logic ProgrammingPLC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires PLC programming certifications and technical trainingRequires PLC certifications, technical diploma, or associate degree
Work EnvironmentOften remote or contract-based, working on specific projectsOn-site in industrial or manufacturing facilities
Employer & IndustryClients across various industries, including automation and manufacturingManufacturing plants, automation companies, industrial facilities
Work FocusDesigning, programming, and troubleshooting PLC ladder logicMaintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting PLC systems

Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programmers focus on creating and optimizing PLC programs for diverse clients, often working remotely. In contrast, PLC Technicians primarily perform on-site maintenance and troubleshooting of PLC systems. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in work environment and daily tasks.

What cities near Waterloo, IL are hiring for Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programming jobs?

Cities near Waterloo, IL with the most Freelance Plc Ladder Logic Programming job openings:

Instrumentation Electrical Tech

Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District

Saint Louis, MO โ€ข On-site

$77K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Maintain, install, and troubleshoot pneumatic, hydraulic, electronic, and computer-based control systems and telemetry stations.

  • Perform planned preventive maintenance, repairs, calibration, and analysis of instruments and control systems.

  • Requisition parts, maintain records in a CMMS, and occasionally serve as lead for other employees.


Job description


Essential Functions:
  • Maintain and install pneumatic, hydraulic, electronic and computer based control systems, and telemetry stations.
  • Carries out a planned preventive maintenance program.
  • Repairs, calibrates, trouble shoots and analyzes instruments and control systems.
  • Install, maintain and adjust radio RF transmitters, receivers, power supplies and associated equipment.
  • Inspect and repair instrumentation sensors, transducers, transmitters, PC's, PLC's, VFD's and associated peripherals.
  • Modifies or improves equipment for best operation.
  • Analyzes, isolates faults, maintains and repairs motor control panels, variable frequency drives, programmable logic controllers, wiring and lighting systems in and around buildings.
  • Performs trouble shooting on a variety of electrical equipment to locate and diagnose source of trouble.
  • Requisitions necessary parts or components.
  • Maintains records in a computerized maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
  • Occasionally serves as lead for one or more employees.
  • Overtime work may be required to meet operational needs.
  • This role offers a 4-day work week schedule, Monday through Thursday day shift.

Additional Responsibilities:
May perform related work as required or as delegated by supervisor.
Physical Demands
  • Stationary Position:
  • Move/Traverse:
  • Stationary Position/Seated:
  • Transport/Lifting:
  • Transport/Carrying:
  • Exerting Force/Pushing:
  • Exerting Force/Pulling:
  • Ascend/Descend:
  • Balancing:
  • Position Self/Stooping:
  • Position Self/Kneeling:
  • Position Self/Crouching:
  • Position Self/Crawling:
  • Reaching:
  • Handling:
  • Grasping:
  • Feeling:
  • Communicate/Talking:
  • Communicate/Hearing:
  • Repetitive Motions:
  • Coordination:
Work Environment
  • Extreme cold:
  • Extreme heat:
  • Humid:
  • Wet :
  • Noise:
  • Hazards:
  • Temperature Change:
  • Atmospheric Conditions:
  • Vibration:

Qualifications
Training and Experience:
  • Graduation from high school, or equivalent, and appropriate vocational school with specialized training in industrial plant electronics, pneumatic and process control instrumentation equipment.
  • Five years of combined electrical/instrumentation experience required. Preferably in the maintenance, installation and calibration of industrial electrical/instrumentation equipment.
  • Must be comfortable working with 480v and 4160v electrical equipment.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Considerable knowledge of pneumatic, electrical, hydraulic and electronic control equipment with emphasis on calibration and analysis.
  • Considerable knowledge of electrical codes.
  • Considerable skill in the use of test equipment such as manometer, volt-ohms meter, oscilloscope, lap top computers and other pneumatic and electronic control elementaries.
  • Ability to understand wiring diagrams and blueprints of electrical installations.
  • Ability to maintain records in a Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and prepare reports.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:
Must possess a valid driver's license issued by the state in which the employee resides.
Pursuant to MSD's "Substance Abuse Policy and Procedures," this position has been designated as safety sensitive and candidate must pass a Non-D.O.T. Drug Test for this position. Employees occupying this position are not subject to Federal (D.O.T.) Drug and Alcohol Testing Regulations.
Employees of MSD must have a Proficient performance rating.
About Us
The Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District provides comprehensive wastewater and storm water management services to residents and businesses in both St. Louis City and County. As one of the most recognized employers in the region and a fixture in the downtown area, MSD employs over 900 individuals in a wide-range of roles including skilled crafts and laborers, engineering, information technology, finance, human resources and administration support. We invite you to be part of the team!