Freelance Siemens Automation Engineer (ZZP) – Machine Building – Amsterdam Area
Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 6 months plus extensions (freelance ZZP contract)
Sector: Machine Building / Industrial Automation
Scope: Siemens PLC / HMI – TIA Portal – System Upgrades & Retrofits
We are seeking a freelance Siemens Automation Engineer (ZZP) to support a major control system upgrade project for a machine-building company in the Amsterdam area. The role focuses on migrating legacy automation platforms to Siemens TIA Portal, upgrading PLC/HMI architectures, and ensuring seamless integration of new systems with existing production equipment.
Your Role
- Upgrade and migrate existing Siemens S7-300/400 systems to S7-1500 platforms using TIA Portal
- Redesign and standardize PLC/HMI software structures to improve maintainability and scalability
- Develop and test automation programs for production machines, conveyors, and robotic interfaces
- Conduct detailed I/O checks, troubleshooting, and fault diagnostics on upgraded systems
- Support FAT/SAT for upgraded machines, ensuring minimal downtime during commissioning
- Integrate new safety systems (e.g., PROFIsafe, failsafe PLCs) in line with EN ISO 13849 / IEC 62061 standards
- Collaborate with mechanical and electrical design teams to align automation with machine modifications
- Provide technical documentation, updated electrical schematics (EPLAN), and operator manuals
- Train in-house technicians and operators on the new Siemens automation environment
Your Profile
- 5+ years of experience in industrial automation, preferably in machine building or system integration
- Strong knowledge of Siemens TIA Portal (Step 7, WinCC, Safety Integrated)
- Hands-on experience with PLC upgrades, retrofits, and migration projects
- Familiar with communication protocols such as Profinet, Profibus, OPC UA, and Industrial Ethernet
- Proficiency in electrical design tools (EPLAN or AutoCAD Electrical)
- Understanding of industrial safety standards and CE compliance requirements
- Track record in upgrading legacy Siemens systems with minimal production disruption
- Strong communicator, able to interface with project managers, workshop teams, and end clients
- Fluent in English; Dutch is an advantage
- Registered ZZP’er with the right to work in the Netherlands
- Available for regular site presence in the Amsterdam region
Bonus Skills
- Experience with SCADA migration projects (WinCC, PCS7, or similar)
- Knowledge of motion control / servo drives (Siemens Sinamics, Simotion)
- Background in robotics integration (KUKA, ABB, Fanuc)
- Experience with remote access, cybersecurity, and secure industrial networks
- Ability to support preventive maintenance strategies and digital twin simulations
If this sounds like the right fit, apply now – the client is eager to move quickly with interviews,