Automation Engineer – 2-Month Contract

About the role

We are looking for a freelance Automation Engineer to lead the design and implementation of a complete control system for a Horizontal Form Fill Seal (HFFS) packaging line. The role is a 2‑month full‑time contract (approximately 100–160 hours) based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.

Key responsibilities

• Design electrical control panels, including motor starters, VFDs, safety relays and circuit protection.
• Select and integrate sensors (proximity, pressure, temperature, speed, photo‑eye) and plan PLC I/O layout.
• Develop and program PLC logic for HFFS, conveyor and labeling sequencing, ensuring speed synchronization and safety interlocks.
• Implement PLC‑to‑PLC communication using Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP or Profibus.
• Create error detection, recovery logic and predictive‑maintenance functions for month 2.
• Produce operator manuals, technician guides, troubleshooting procedures and maintenance plans.
• Provide post‑launch support and commissioning assistance.

Required profile

• Minimum 3 years of automation engineering experience.
• Proven ability to work independently on electrical design, PLC programming and system integration.
• Experience with packaging machinery, especially HFFS or similar intermittent production equipment.

Required skills

• PLC programming: Siemens, Allen‑Bradley, Mitsubishi.
• Communication protocols: Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, Profibus.
• Electrical design: motor control, VFD integration, safety circuits, panel layout.
• Sensor integration: proximity, pressure, temperature, speed sensors.
• Speed synchronization and timing logic.
• Predictive maintenance implementation.
• Technical documentation and troubleshooting.