Automation • Manufacturing • Engineering — News, Contracts & Careers
Your hub for automation contractors, robotics engineers, PLC programmers, industrial electricians, designers, and the companies that need them.
Your hub for automation contractors, robotics engineers, PLC programmers, industrial electricians, designers, and the companies that need them.
Automation Contractors and Jobs is where manufacturers, system integrators, and professionals find real-time contracts, RFQs, and news on robotics, controls, PLCs, design, simulation, pneumatics, and project management—powered by Automate America’s 40,000-strong network. For broader industry trends, see the latest reports at the International Federation of Robotics. (https://ifr.org)
Latest Articles & Open Contracts
Stay on top of breakthrough projects, RFQs, hardware/software reviews, and live contract opportunities across North America.
Elite Vision System Programming in Birmingham: Why Two-Week Specialist Contracts Represent Career Mastery
Birmingham, Alabama needs a vision specialist for a two-week contract on a Fanuc spot welding cell with Apera AI inspection. This $76-152/hour opportunity represents exactly why elite automation professionals should transition to specialist contracting at career peak.
Controls Engineer Needed in Warren, Michigan: Allen Bradley and Siemens Production Support
Warren, Michigan manufacturers need a Controls Engineer skilled in both Allen Bradley and Siemens platforms for long-term production support. This contract starts November 3rd and offers consistent overtime opportunities across a seven-day schedule. The dual-platform requirement and focused production support scope make this ideal for engineers seeking stable income and technical growth.
The 2.1 Million Job Gap: Why Manufacturing’s Labor Crisis is Forcing the Contract Revolution
American manufacturing faces a crisis: 2.1 million jobs could go unfilled by 2030, with 449,000 positions empty today. However, 40% of workers discovered the solution, and 80% of manufacturers now adopt flexible workforce models. The contract revolution is here.
Senior Controls Engineer in Greenville, Wisconsin: Master Web Handling Multi-Axis Drive Systems
Master web handling automation as a Senior Controls Engineer in Greenville, Wisconsin. This contract pays $68/hr base plus overtime and covers all travel expenses for work across plastic extrusion, laminating, coating, and converting operations. You’ll program Allen Bradley ControlLogix platforms and commission multi-axis PowerFlex drive systems coordinating up to 20 synchronized axes.
Two Controls Engineers Needed in Waterloo: Advanced Tire Manufacturing Automation Project
Waterloo, Iowa has two outstanding controls engineering opportunities for experienced professionals skilled in Allen Bradley PLC programming, FANUC robotics, and Keyence vision systems. This doubles the opportunity for qualified automation engineers in the region. These substantial contracts support automated tire manufacturing for agricultural equipment with competitive compensation at $76 per hour and strong potential for extension through February 2026 and beyond.
The 20/80 Rule: Why America’s Smartest Manufacturers Keep Only 20% Full-Time
The most competitive manufacturers in America have discovered a workforce strategy that traditional companies are missing: 20% permanent employees, 80% on-demand contractors. This isn’t a temporary trend—it’s the new standard for operational excellence. Learn why the true cost of full-time hiring is bankrupting your flexibility and how to access 40,000+ automation professionals exactly when you need them.
ABB SafeMove Contract $80-128/Hour – Your Safety Certification Experts
ABB SafeMove certified engineers command premium rates for specialized robotic safety validation. Discover why a Windsor automotive manufacturer is paying up to $128/hour for cylinder head assembly line commissioning and how the on-demand expertise model is reshaping American manufacturing workforce strategy.
The $2.3 Million Bench Cost: What Your Automation Engineers Really Cost When They’re Not Billing
Every automation service company faces the same problem: engineers on the bench generating zero revenue while costing $165K annually. This is the real math behind bench cost and why contract professionals are the solution.
Why Renewable Energy Needs Automation Expertise Now
SCADA technology is the heartbeat of modern renewable energy. From wind farms to solar arrays, these systems connect data, control, and human skill into a single operational force. Automate America empowers the engineers and integrators driving this transformation forward.
Fanuc CRX Collaborative Robot Programmer Needed for Aerospace
A Fanuc CRX-20iA/L collaborative robot system in Ontario, California needs final commissioning for precision aerospace CNC machine tending. This one-week contract at $77/hour represents the kind of specialized automation work that builds exceptional engineering careers. Learn why independent contracting through Automate America connects the best programmers with critical manufacturing projects.
Siemens S7-300 PLC Programmer Needed in Belleville, Michigan: Why Short-Term Contracts Deliver Long-Term Value
A high-value Siemens S7-300 programming contract in Belleville, Michigan needs an experienced PLC professional ready to deliver results. Discover why working across industries through Automate America’s contract network is the path to becoming a world-class automation engineer.
The New Reality of Automation Staffing: Why Project-Based Contracts Outperform Fixed Overhead in 2025
The demand for flexible, expert automation talent is intense. Manufacturers urgently need specialized contractors for high-impact roles like Fanuc optimization and Motoman/Omron Body-in-White commissioning. Leverage our network to find your next high-value project.
Your Hiring Process Is Holding Your Company Hostage. Here’s How to Break Free.
Your Hiring Process Is Holding Your Company Hostage. Here's How to Break Free. Does your manufacturing hiring process drain time...
Revenue Per Employee: The New Wall Street Metric That’s Forcing Companies to Ditch Traditional Hiring
Wall Street is shifting its focus to a new killer metric: Revenue Per Employee. This article explores why RPE is a better indicator of business health and how it’s fueling the move towards a flexible, on-demand professional workforce.
Calling All Innovators: South Carolina’s Robotics Revolution Needs You! (Up to $75K + Benefits)
Discover a premier Robot Technician job in Wellford, South Carolina, offering up to $75,000 plus excellent benefits. This direct-hire opportunity, starting October 6, 2025, is perfect for skilled automation professionals. Learn why Automate America is the top platform for connecting talent with leading companies.
2 New Production Support Contracts – and The Death of Manufacturing Employment: Why Smart Companies Are Firing Everyone
American manufacturing is being crippled by the outdated, expensive model of traditional employment. Smart companies are realizing the immense cost savings, efficiency gains, and liability protection offered by a contract-based workforce. This article breaks down why the contract model is not just a trend, but the key to future dominance.
Kawasaki Robot Programming Contract in Eastlake: How Premium Opportunities Get Filled Instantly When You Have 40,000 Automation Professionals
Premium $60/hour Kawasaki D Controller programming contract available in Eastlake, Ohio for aerospace shell dipping systems. Join 40,000+ automation professionals in our network for instant access to top-tier robotics opportunities.
URGENT: $72/Hour Motoman Contract – Starts THIS TUESDAY!
An immediate, high-paying contract is available for a senior Yaskawa/Motoman robot programmer in Newark, CA. This urgent role requires expert-level NX100 controller experience for a system rehabilitation and torch cutting project. Apply now to secure this opportunity offering up to $144/hour with a full travel package.
2 MACHINE TOOL ELECTRICIANS, AUSTIN, TX $68/Hour
🔧⚡ MACHINE TOOL ELECTRICIANS NEEDED - AUSTIN, TX $68/Hour⚡🔧 Exciting new production line installation project at an Automotive...
The MIT Factor: How Elite Research Creates Premium Automation Contracts
Experienced automation professionals know the frustration of finding low-paying work. This analysis reveals how elite research and new technologies are creating the next wave of high-value opportunities.