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Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Engineer

South Holland, IL · On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Our client is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to join a growing technology team supporting ... This is a senior-level role that combines hands-on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, project ...

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

WI · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

SCADA and Automation Engineer - Oil and Gas While AI tools may support your application process ... Program, installation, and testing of SCADA and PLC systems, primarily SELRTACs * Produce ...

Automation Engineer

Davie, FL · On-site

$45 - $55/hr

Job Title: Automation Engineer Davie, FL Until end of the year (possible extension) Local ... You'll learn by doing--helping to program and troubleshoot PLC/SCADA and HMI systems, support ...

Automation Engineer

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$95K - $130K/yr

Automation Engineer POSITION DESCRIPTION NUMBER: HR-023-33 DEPARTMENT: Engineering REPORTS TO ... Depending on assignment, this may be DCS, PLC, SCADA, BAS, Validation, Manufacturing and Utilities ...

$125 - $175/hr

SCADA and Automation Engineer - Oil and Gas While AI tools may support your application process, this role is built on human talent. Key Responsibilities * As a SCADA & Automation Engineer in the Oil ...

Automation Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

Automation Engineer Our client is a well-established systems integrator with more than 40 years of ... Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and SCADA systems for municipal water and wastewater ...

Automation Engineer

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

Automation Engineer Our client is a well-established systems integrator with more than 40 years of ... Design, develop, program, and commission PLC and SCADA systems for municipal water and wastewater ...

Hands-on PLC programming experience * MES integration experience (PLC, SCADA, OPC) * Strong understanding of manufacturing automation, machine data collection, and MES concepts * Experience working ...

Lead Automation Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$105K - $139K/yr

Lead Automation Engineer Education & Experience : Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ... You'll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring ...

Lead Automation Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Lead Automation Engineer Education & Experience : Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field ... You'll play a key role in DCS/PLC programming and SCADA/HMI development, while also mentoring ...

What You Will Do Lancium is seeking a SCADA/Automation engineer to assist in planning/developing ... Hands-on PLC configuration, troubleshooting, and basic programming. * Experience with industrial ...

Showing results 41-60

Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer information

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$37K

$107.1K

$163K

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

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance plc scada automation engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 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.

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

Infographic showing various Freelance Plc Scada Automation Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,126 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Sr. Automation Engineer

Automationtechies

South Holland, IL • On-site

$96K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Our client is seeking a Sr. Automation Engineer to join a growing technology team supporting industrial and municipal control system projects. This is a senior-level role that combines hands-on PLC/SCADA programming, troubleshooting, project execution, and technical leadership.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys solving complex controls problems, working directly with customers, mentoring other technical team members, and staying involved in both office-based project work and field commissioning. This role will be the foundation of the automation department and you will be the person leading it!

What You'll Do

  • Lead PLC/SCADA projects from scope through startup and customer handoff
  • Program, modify, upgrade, and troubleshoot PLC systems
  • Develop and support Windows-based SCADA systems, including alarming, trending, reporting, and system integration
  • Develop and modify OIT/HMI applications for equipment control and operator usability
  • Troubleshoot instrumentation, pumps, valves, field devices, networks, and control system interfaces
  • Establish and follow best practices for programming standards, documentation, backups, testing, FAT/SAT, commissioning, and turnover
  • Serve as a technical resource for customers and internal team members
  • Mentor and coordinate other SCADA technicians/integrators
  • Support estimating, scheduling, manhour estimates, and technical project planning

What We're Looking For

  • 7+ years of PLC/SCADA integration experience
  • Strong hands-on controls, automation, and troubleshooting skills
  • Experience with SCADA, HMI/OIT development, PLC programming, industrial communications, and instrumentation
  • Ability to lead projects and provide technical guidance to others
  • Strong customer service and communication skills
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Windows operating systems and Office products
  • Electrical/panel troubleshooting experience preferred
  • Ability to develop electrical schematics, system diagrams, and engineering specifications is a plus
  • Experience in water/wastewater treatment is not required, but would be a plus
  • Degree in Industrial Electronics, Automation/Controls, or equivalent education and experience

Additional Requirements

  • Valid driver's license, vehicle, and insurance
  • Ability to travel for field service and commissioning work within the regional territory
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States for any employer

Why This Role?

This is a strong opportunity for an experienced automation professional who wants a senior technical role with variety, customer interaction, project ownership, and the ability to mentor others while remaining hands-on with PLC/SCADA systems.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the US. Hiring company is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

To comply with some state laws, the annual base salary range for this position has been provided. The range given is broad and should be considered as a guideline only. Our client will consider a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, the salaries of current employees in similar roles, and other factors when extending an offer.