Freelance Python Automation Engineer Jobs in Kansas City, MO

Do you enjoy developing automation solutions that improve manufacturing efficiency and safety?
Are you passionate about combining programming, robotics, and engineering to drive advanced manufacturing innovation?

Join our Team!

Baker Hughes is a global energy technology company operating in over 120 countries. Our teams deliver advanced manufacturing and engineering solutions that improve product quality, operational efficiency, and safety. By combining automation, digital technologies, and engineering expertise, we are driving innovation across industrial manufacturing processes.

Partnering with the Best

As a Programming and Automation Engineer, you are executing automation and programming projects to support advanced manufacturing processes. You are developing automation systems that enhance productivity, improve quality, and reduce safety risks. You are collaborating with production and engineering teams to design and implement automated solutions, develop control systems, and support continuous improvement initiatives. You are leveraging programming tools, robotics platforms, and data systems to optimize manufacturing operations.

As a Programming and Automation Engineer, you are responsible for:

• Leading development of new process technologies to support manufacturing of new and existing products.

• Designing and developing automation systems internally or with third-party partners.

• Creating CAD models, BOMs, and drawings required to build automated systems.

• Ensuring automation systems are designed with a strong focus on safety and usability.

• Developing LabVIEW programs to monitor and control manufacturing processes.

• Developing PLC ladder logic programs and configuring HMIs for process control.

• Creating software solutions using SQL, MS Access, and Python to collect and analyze operational data.

• Working with robotics platforms to support automation system development and deployment.

• Writing and updating manufacturing and engineering procedures.

• Troubleshooting existing automated systems and machinery.

• Designing tools, dies, and equipment as required.

• Providing training to production teams on new systems and processes.

• Supporting continuous improvement and quality initiatives within manufacturing.

Fuel Your Passion

To be successful in this role you will:

• Have a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.

• Have 3+ years of experience in programming, automation, and mechanical design (preferred).

• Have experience with LabVIEW programming (certification preferred).

• Have experience with PLC configuration and ladder logic programming.

• Have knowledge of industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, Ethernet/IP, OPC UA, and serial communication.

• Have experience using Python and SQL for data analysis and automation tasks.

• Have experience with CAD/CAM tools (SolidWorks preferred).

• Have the ability to design and interpret mechanical drawings and electrical schematics.

• Have knowledge of industrial machinery, tooling systems, and manufacturing processes.

• Have strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical and electrical systems.

• Have familiarity with robotics platforms and automation technologies.

• Have strong mathematical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Have strong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionally.

• Have proficiency with computer applications including ERP systems and Microsoft Office tools.

• Must currently hold valid US citizenship status

Behavioral Competencies

• Have a strong passion for learning new technologies and continuous development.

• Have strong attention to detail, quality, and safety.

• Have the ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.

• Have a positive attitude and collaborative approach to teamwork.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to use computers, tools, and manufacturing equipment effectively.

• Ability to sit, stand, and walk for extended periods across office and shop environments.

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs as required.

• Ability to wear appropriate PPE including safety glasses, shoes, and hearing protection.

Work in a Way That Works for You

We recognize that everyone is different and that the way in which people want to work and deliver at their best is different for everyone too. In this role, we can offer the following flexible working patterns:

Working flexible hours - flexing the times when you work in the day to help you fit everything in and work when you are the most productive.

Working With Us

Our people are at the heart of what we do. We know we are better when our teams feel supported, engaged, and empowered. We invest in the wellbeing of our workforce, provide opportunities for growth, and build leaders who bring out the best in others.

Working For You

At Baker Hughes, we reward those who embrace change and contribute to our ongoing success. You can expect:

• Contemporary work-life balance policies and wellbeing activities

• Comprehensive private medical care options

• Safety net of life insurance and disability programs

• Tailored financial programs.

• Additionalelected or voluntary benefits.

This position requires current work authorization in the country of employment. The employer is unable to provide or continue work authorization sponsorship for this role.

You will be eligible to participate in Company-sponsored benefit programs, including health & welfare programs and the Thrift Plan (401k). You will have a choice of coverage options that best suit your needs. Coverage options and contribution amounts are related to your benefit elections, base salary level, and specific requirements of each of these plans.

This position is eligible for our comprehensive and competitive benefits package, which can be found here, and is further eligible for additional forms of compensation such as bonuses subject to the terms of the applicable benefit plans or policies.