Freelance PLC and controls programmer

Small and mid-sized manufacturers, food and packaging plants, machine builders and larger integrators that subcontract.

Hourly or day rate for programming and support, fixed quotes for small upgrades, and paid support or call-out agreements after a job is finished.

• PLC programming and industrial controls knowledge
• Reading electrical drawings
• Clear communication with plant staff
• Careful documentation and testing

• Engineering rules: check your provincial engineering regulator on whether your work needs a P.Eng. or sign-off, and avoid using protected titles such as 'engineer' unless licensed
• Electrical wiring and panel work usually needs licensed electricians or certified panel shops, check provincial rules
• Machine safety standards (such as CSA Z432 and Z434 for robots), you are responsible for safe designs
• Professional liability and commercial general liability insurance, since a faulty program can stop a production line
• Software licences can be costly, check licence terms for contractors
• Site safety training and PPE requirements at plants, and registration with WCB/WSIB if you hire help

Startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000 CAD, depending on your laptop, software licences, insurance and any training. Check licence terms for contractors, as software can be costly. These are estimates, not quotes.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $15,000 CAD, depending on the hours you work, the projects you win and your rates. The low end assumes roughly 15 hours a week. Revenue is not profit.

Check your provincial engineering regulator on whether your work needs a P.Eng. or sign-off, and avoid protected titles like 'engineer' unless licensed. Also check electrical wiring rules, machine safety standards such as CSA Z432 and Z434, and insurance needs.