Part-Time Automation Consultant Needed

About the project

# Motion Control Engineer / Automation Consultant (Part-Time) – Pipe Bending Machine Development ## Project Overview We are developing a new CNC/automated pipe bending machine that is currently under fabrication. We are looking for an experienced **Motion Control Engineer** or **Automation Consultant** to join us on a **part-time consulting basis** during the final design and automation integration phases. The ideal candidate will review our current design, identify improvements, and guide our team in implementing a reliable and efficient motion control system. ## Responsibilities * Review the current machine design and provide technical recommendations. * Guide the integration of servo motors, servo drives, or proportional hydraulic valves. * Recommend suitable motion control architecture and automation components. * Assist in selecting and integrating feedback devices such as rotary encoders, linear encoders, pressure transducers, and position sensors. * Review control algorithms and machine sequence logic. * Advise on communication between PLC, HMI, and motion controller. * Support simulation, testing, and validation before commissioning. * Provide technical guidance during fabrication so that necessary design changes can be implemented in time. ## Our Team We already have internal resources for: * 3D CAD design * Mechanical manufacturing * PLC programming We are looking for an expert who can review our work, guide us technically, and help us make the right engineering decisions. ## Required Experience We are looking for candidates with experience in one or more of the following: * Motion control systems * Servo motor applications * Hydraulic or electro-hydraulic motion control * PLC programming * Industrial automation * Machine building * CNC machinery * Pipe bending or forming machines (preferred) * Robotics or mechatronics Experience with communication protocols such as **EtherCAT, CANopen, Modbus, EtherNet/IP, or Profinet** is highly desirable. ## Initial Scope (First 2–3 Weeks) During the initial engagement, we expect the consultant to: * Review our existing mechanical design * Review the machine concept and working sequence * Identify potential design issues * Recommend improvements before fabrication progresses further * Suggest suitable automation architecture * Recommend motion hardware and sensors * Assist with simulation and validation * Participate in technical discussions and provide engineering guidance ## Questions for Applicants Please answer the following in your proposal: 1. Describe your experience with motion control and industrial automation projects. 2. Have you worked on CNC machines, pipe bending machines, hydraulic systems, or similar equipment? 3. Which communication protocols have you used between HMI, PLC, and motion controllers (EtherCAT, CANopen, Modbus, Profinet, EtherNet/IP, etc.)? 4. Which PLC platforms and servo systems have you worked with? 5. Can you support the Requirements Review and Simulation phase over the next 2–3 weeks? 6. What deliverables would you provide during this period? 7. Will you be available for regular technical discussions and design reviews during fabrication? 8. What open-source software tools would you recommend for simulation and development? 9. What are your hourly or fixed-price consulting charges? 10. Please share relevant projects, portfolio, or case studies. ## Engagement * Part-time * Remote * Flexible working hours * Potential for long-term collaboration based on project progress We are looking for someone who can become a technical partner in this project and help ensure that the machine is designed correctly before manufacturing advances further.

Skills required