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Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer Jobs in Appleton, WI

The ideal candidate must be proficient in the use of a PC and Microsoft Office Suite and must have experience with PLC program development, and HMI/SCADA development. All Automation Engineers will ...

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Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer information

See Appleton, WI salary details

$36.1K

$104.5K

$159K

How much do freelance plc scada automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance plc scada automation engineer in Appleton, WI is $104,526.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,400.00 and $120,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance PLC SCADA automation engineer?

Freelance PLC SCADA Automation Engineers are independent professionals who design, program, and maintain automation systems using Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) software. They typically work on a project basis for various industries, such as manufacturing, energy, and water treatment, to improve process efficiency and reliability. Their responsibilities include system integration, troubleshooting, and ensuring that automation solutions meet industry standards and client requirements.

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

To thrive as a Freelance PLC SCADA Automation Engineer, you need strong expertise in industrial automation, PLC programming, SCADA system integration, and a relevant engineering degree or certification. Proficiency in tools like Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or Schneider PLCs, along with SCADA platforms such as Wonderware or WinCC, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate with clients and adapt to diverse project needs. These competencies ensure reliable system performance, timely project delivery, and client satisfaction in dynamic industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance PLC SCADA automation engineers when working with multiple clients?

Freelance PLC SCADA Automation Engineers often juggle projects for various clients, which can mean working with different hardware platforms, software versions, and industry standards. Adapting quickly to each client’s unique requirements and maintaining effective communication remotely are key challenges. Additionally, managing project timelines independently and troubleshooting issues without immediate on-site support requires strong organizational and problem-solving skills. Building reliable relationships and setting clear expectations with clients can help ease these challenges and contribute to long-term success.

What is the difference between Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer vs PLC Programmer?

AspectFreelance Plc Scada Automation EngineerPLC Programmer
CredentialsRelevant certifications in PLC and SCADA systems, engineering backgroundPLC programming certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentProject-based, on-site or remote, industrial settingsIndustrial automation, manufacturing facilities, on-site or remote
Industry UsageDesigns, integrates, and tests automation systemsDevelops and codes PLC programs for machinery

The Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer focuses on designing and integrating complete automation systems, including SCADA and PLC components, often working on diverse projects. In contrast, a PLC Programmer primarily writes and tests PLC code for specific machinery. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital in industrial automation, but their scope and responsibilities differ.

What job categories do people searching Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer jobs in Appleton, WI are:

What cities near Appleton, WI are hiring for Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities near Appleton, WI with the most Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer job openings:

Automation Engineer III

Faithtechnologies

Menasha, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Methodically approaches the process startup.

  • Works independently to provide programming, commissioning support, and owns the startup and project scope.

  • Provides mentoring, quality checks, and support to other Automation Engineers and team members.


Faith Technologies rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

206th of 452 rated engineering


Job description

You've discovered something special. A company that cares. Cares about leading the way in construction, engineering, manufacturing and renewable energy. Cares about redefining how energy is designed, applied and consumed. Cares about thoughtfully growing to meet market demands. And as "one of the Healthiest 100 Workplaces in America" is focused on the mind/body/soul of team members through our Culture of Care.

The Automation Engineer III is responsible for the software design and implementation, and support of automation and process control systems projects including new installations, modifications, and customer support. Activities are heavily focused on-site at customer facilities. This position is likely to involve mentoring and training of other team members. Additionally, this person may assist project managers with project scope definition and work planning. The ideal candidate must be proficient in the use of a PC and Microsoft Office Suite and must have experience with PLC program development, and HMI/SCADA development.

All Automation Engineers will participate in an afterhours on-call rotation schedule.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education: Associate Degree in Automated Manufacturing, Electro Mechanical Technology, EET OR

Experience:8 years advanced PLC/HMI/SCADA programming and system startup experience.

Valid state driver's license and satisfactory driving record is required.

Travel: 25-50%

Work Schedule: This position works between the hours of 6 AM and 6 PM, Monday- Friday. Schedule may vary and can include, but is not limited to: nights, weekends, and holidays.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Methodically approaches the process startup.
  • Demonstrates strong leadership skills.
  • Able to work independently; assesses and troubleshoots service needs under stressful conditions. Works through more complicated systems and/or intermittent issues. Troubleshoots and solves issues that less senior Automation Engineers have struggled with.
  • Works with team and provides direction to less senior Automation Engineers.
  • Leads and provides input to team brainstorming activities to contribute to solutions or options. Thinks outside the box and is willing to share ideas. Open to ideas, but able to establish best option and path forward to team and customer.
  • Works advanced level project assignments independently or with team. This includes working directly with team including, Systems Architects, Project Engineers, customers, and delegating work to other Automation Engineers.
  • Quality checks other Automation Engineers' work for accuracy, functionality, and completeness.
  • Works independently, directly provides programming and commissioning support and "owns" the startup and project scope.
  • Provides mentoring to less experienced Automation Engineers or conflict resolution assistance in the field.
  • Provides quality control feedback to other Automation Engineers independently of project assignment.
  • Supports and contributes to Code Streamlining effort and building code library. Supports "buy-in" from all other Programmers in Automation to use and build on to the Code Standards.
  • Actively participates in continued education efforts
  • Performs other related duties as required and assigned.

The job description and responsibilities described are intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended as a comprehensive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills or abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time other than the TN1 Visa (Canadian).

How Does FTI Give YOU the Chance to Thrive?

If you're energized by new challenges, FTI provides you with many opportunities. Joining FTI opens doors to redefine what's possible for your future.

Once you're a team member, you're supported and provided with the knowledge and resources to achieve your career goals with FTI. You're officially in the driver's seat of your career, and FTI's career development and continued education programs give you opportunities to position yourself for success.

FTI is a "merit to the core" organization. We recognize and reward top performers, offering competitive, merit-based compensation, career path development and a flexible and robust benefits package.

Benefits are the Game-Changer

We provide industry-leading benefits as an investment in the lives of team members and their families.You're invited to review the full list of FTI benefits available to regular/full-time team members. Start here. Grow here. Succeed here. If you're ready to learn more about your career with FTI, apply today!

Faith Technologies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer - veterans/disabled.

Employment is contingent upon successfully passing a background and drug test


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