You have been programming PLCs for five years. You have commissioned lines, debugged faults at midnight, and trained operators. You know you are good at what you do. And you have been thinking about contracts.
The professionals on Automate America who work contracts earn $60 to $135 per hour. The math is obvious. But the transition from employee to contractor is intimidating because nobody tells you how it actually works. This guide does.
## Step 1: Know What You Are Selling
Companies hire contractors because they have a specific problem and they need someone who can solve it without hand-holding. Before you create your profile, answer honestly: What platforms can you program from scratch? What industries have you worked in? What is your strongest skill?
## Step 2: Build Your Profile
Your Automate America profile is your resume, portfolio, and sales pitch combined. Fill out everything: occupations (up to 5), skills with honest self-ratings, work history with real projects, certifications, endorsements from former coworkers, and a professional photo.
Write a real About Me. Example that works: '15 years in automotive controls. I program Allen-Bradley and FANUC, I commission lines, and I troubleshoot problems other people gave up on.' Example that does not work: 'Motivated self-starter seeking opportunities in a dynamic environment.'
## Step 3: Set Your Rate
Take your current hourly salary equivalent. Multiply by 1.5 to account for self-employment taxes, insurance, and bench time. That is your minimum. Example: $85,000 per year salary equals $40.87 per hour. Multiply by 1.5 equals $61.30 per hour minimum. Most controls engineers with 5+ years bill $75 to $95 per hour.
On White Glove contracts, Automate America handles rate negotiation with the customer. You set your desired pay rate and the company pays a bill rate that includes a 15 to 20% margin.
## Step 4: Apply Strategically
Apply to contracts where you meet at least 80% of the requirements. Read the full posting. Mention specific requirements you meet. Ask a smart question about the project. Keep it to three paragraphs maximum.
## Step 5: Nail the First Contract
Show up early. Ask questions on day one. Document your work. Communicate problems early. Finish what you start.
## Step 6: Build Your Reputation
Ask for an endorsement after a successful project. Stay in touch with the project manager. Keep your profile updated with new projects and skills.
## Common Mistakes
1. Pricing too low. 2. Overstating skills. 3. Ignoring your profile. 4. Not being willing to travel. 5. Burning bridges.
Your first contract is the hardest to get. After that, your work speaks for itself.
