Freelance Python Automation Engineer Jobs in Spring Lake, NC

"Please note, this role is not able to offer visa transfer or sponsorship now or in the future."

As an AVEVA PI Integration Lead, you will make an impact by designing, implementing, and optimizing enterprise-wide industrial data integration solutions that connect manufacturing operations with business systems. You will be a valued member of the Digital Manufacturing team and work collaboratively with automation engineers, manufacturing operations, IT/OT teams, data architects, and business stakeholders to deliver scalable, secure, and reliable data solutions.

• Lead the architecture, deployment, and lifecycle management of AVEVA PI System components, including PI Data Archive, PI AF, PI Vision, PI Integrators, and data connectors.
• Design and implement integrations between manufacturing systems such as DCS, SCADA, MES, PLCs, and enterprise applications to enable real-time operational visibility and analytics.
• Develop and maintain PI Asset Framework structures, templates, dashboards, and visualizations that support operational and business decision-making.
• Establish data governance standards and ensure high levels of system performance, reliability, cybersecurity, and data integrity.
• Provide technical leadership, troubleshooting expertise, and mentorship while supporting system upgrades, disaster recovery planning, and continuous improvement initiatives.

At Cognizant, we strive to provide flexibility wherever possible, and we are here to support a healthy work-life balance though our various wellbeing programs. Based on this role’s business requirements, this is an onsite position requiring 3-4 days a week in a client or Cognizant office.

The working arrangements for this role are accurate as of the date of posting. This may change based on the project you’re engaged in, as well as business and client requirements. Rest assured; we will always be clear about role expectations.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Instrumentation, Information Technology, or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with the AVEVA PI System, including PI Data Archive, PI AF, PI Vision, PI DataLink, and PI Integrators.
• Strong experience integrating industrial systems such as DCS, SCADA, MES, PLCs, and ERP platforms within manufacturing environments.
• Deep knowledge of industrial communication protocols including OPC UA/DA, Modbus, MQTT, and related data acquisition technologies.
• Experience with scripting and automation technologies such as Python, SQL, PowerShell, or .NET, along with strong understanding of IT/OT architecture and cybersecurity best practices.

• AVEVA PI System certifications.
• Experience working in regulated industries such as Life Sciences, Pharmaceuticals, Chemicals, or Oil & Gas.
• Knowledge of validation lifecycle documentation and GxP compliance requirements, including IQ/OQ/PQ processes.
• Experience integrating PI data with cloud platforms such as Azure or AWS and analytics tools such as Power BI or Seeq.
• Familiarity with manufacturing platforms such as Emerson DeltaV, Syncade, POMSnet, or similar MES and automation technologies.

The annual salary for this position is between $110,000 - $128,000 depending on experience and other qualifications of the successful candidate.

This position is also eligible for Cognizant’s discretionary annual incentive program, based on performance and subject to the terms of Cognizant’s applicable plans.

Cognizant offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements:

• Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance
• Paid holidays plus Paid Time Off
• 401(k) plan and contributions
• Long-term/Short-term Disability
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Disclaimer: The salary, other compensation, and benefits information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.