Hello everyone, I go by the name Melaku, and I am a newcomer seeking guidance on pursuing a career as an automation engineer. Holding a Bsc in electromechanical engineering, I am deeply passionate about transitioning into the field of automation engineering. My experience includes programming with Arduino and successfully completing over six projects from concept to prototype development. Currently, I aim to expand my expertise in PLC programming and control system integration. While I have made some attempts to learn through YouTube, I am eager for recommendations on reliable sources for practical knowledge. I am particularly interested in securing a freelance remote position due to limited onsite job opportunities in my country. Can someone please advise me on which areas to concentrate on to enhance my skills and identify freelance job prospects on platforms like Upwork? Thank you for your assistance.
It seems like you are well-prepared to pursue a career in automation engineering. Your location seems to be the primary hurdle rather than your knowledge or intelligence. While you can seek advice here, it may be more beneficial to seek career guidance from individuals with expertise in Ethiopia.
Feeling at ease with a remote-only automation engineer can be challenging, especially if they lack hands-on experience with running machinery. It's important for an engineer to have felt the vibrations, heard the noises, smelled overheating components, and seen the potential damage caused by machinery malfunctions. My recommendation is to gain practical experience in a factory setting before attempting to automate one remotely.
Steve Bailey emphasized the importance of hands-on experience for automation engineers, highlighting the necessity of being familiar with the vibrations, sounds, smells, and potential damages associated with running machinery. It is crucial for professionals in this field to have a deep understanding of the physical aspects of automation before delving into remote-only work. In agreement, it has been noted that attempting to use remote resources for PLC work, such as outsourcing programming to countries like India, can lead to challenges and unsatisfactory outcomes. Field work and hands-on experience are essential for success in automation engineering, with no shortcuts available. For those looking to specialize in HMI development, specializing in platforms like Wonderware, Ignition, or FactoryTalk could be a viable option. Integrators often require assistance with developing basic HMI interfaces, providing a niche market for those with expertise in this area. However, establishing a clientele and promoting services will be a key challenge for aspiring automation engineers.
Standing by Steve's side, I recommend considering a position as a factory maintenance technician. Don't be deterred if you're deemed overqualified due to your education. The practical experience gained from hands-on repairs and getting your hands dirty will not only boost your confidence but also signal to potential employers your ability to troubleshoot and comprehend industrial machinery in real-world settings.
Steve Bailey emphasizes the importance of hands-on experience for automation engineers. He believes that remote-only engineers may lack crucial sensory experiences like feeling the vibrations of running machinery, hearing the different noises it makes, smelling overheated components, and witnessing the potential damage caused by out-of-control mechanisms. Bailey advises aspiring engineers to gain real-world experience in a factory setting before attempting remote automation work. This advice is applicable across different industries and countries, as engineering standards vary. It is crucial to understand industry standards and gain practical experience to excel in the field. Remote jobs in controls engineering are rare, typically requiring extensive experience in the oil and gas sector.
Hi Melaku! Welcome to the forum and great to see your passion for automation engineering. Since you've already had some hands-on experience with Arduino, transitioning to PLC shouldn't be too big of a jump. Websites like Pluralsight and Coursera offer credible courses on PLC programming which could be really beneficial. Once you start feeling confident, consider building a portfolio showcasing your projects completed with PLC. As for freelance opportunities, properly showcasing your skills on platforms like Upwork will definitely increase your visibility. Remember, client reviews are the key - start with smaller projects and gradually undertake complex ones. Also, look into specializing in specific sectors (like Automotive, Oil & Gas, Manufacturing etc.) as it's typically niches that have higher demand. Good luck with your journey!
Hi Melaku, welcome to the forum! Your background in electromechanical engineering along with your hands-on experience with Arduino provides an excellent foundation for your transition into automation engineering. For practical knowledge, apart from YouTube, websites like Coursera and Udemy offer courses on PLC programming and control system integration. Try focusing on mastering popularly used software like RSLogix and Siemens TIA Portal. Also, understanding firmware coding, industrial networking, and human-machine interface configuration will enhance your employability. Regarding the freelance job prospects, begin by creating a strong profile on platforms like Upwork, highlighting your skills, projects, and ability to work independently. You might also want to consider obtaining specific industry certifications to stand out. Joining LinkedIn groups related to automation engineering is another excellent way to network and discover job opportunities. All the best in your journey!
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Answer: - To enhance your skills as an automation engineer, focus on areas such as PLC programming, control system integration, industrial communication protocols, HMI design, and advanced automation technologies like IoT and machine learning.
Answer: - Apart from YouTube, you can explore online learning platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and edX for courses on automation engineering. You can also consider joining professional organizations or attending workshops and seminars to gain practical knowledge.
Answer: - To identify freelance job opportunities on platforms like Upwork, create a detailed profile highlighting your skills and experience in automation engineering. Use relevant keywords in your profile to attract potential clients searching for automation engineers. Additionally, regularly browse job listings on Upwork and submit proposals showcasing your expertise.
Answer: - To transition from electromechanical engineering to automation engineering, focus on gaining practical experience in automation technologies, such as PLC programming and control system integration. Enroll in relevant courses, work on automation projects, and network with professionals in the field to enhance your skills and expand your opportunities.
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