Getting Started with FEED: A Contractor's Guide

Welcome to AutomateAmerica FEED—the leading marketplace connecting automation contractors with employers nationwide. Whether you're a PLC programmer, robotics engineer, or controls specialist, FEED helps you find your next contract faster.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to get started, from creating your profile to landing your first client. Let's dive in.

What is AutomateAmerica FEED?

FEED is a specialized platform connecting 4,500+ automation contractors with employers who need industrial automation expertise. Unlike generic freelance platforms (Upwork, Freelancer), we focus exclusively on:

• PLC programming
• SCADA & DCS systems
• Robotic programming
• HMI development
• Motion control
• Safety systems
• Process automation
• Industrial networking

Why FEED Works:

• Industry-Specific: Employers come here specifically for automation talent
• Quality Clients: Manufacturers, integrators, and engineering firms (not random startups)
• Fair Rates: Contractors set their own hourly rates (no platform fees on earnings)
• Transparent Process: See project details before applying

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Step 1: Create Your Contractor Profile (15 minutes)

Your profile is your digital resume. A complete, well-optimized profile gets 3x more views than incomplete profiles.

What You'll Need:

1. Professional Photo

   • Headshot or photo in industrial setting
   • Clear, well-lit, professional attire
   • No selfies or group photos

2. Contact Information

   • Email address (verified)
   • Phone number (optional but recommended)
   • Location (city, state)

3. Work Experience

   • Previous automation projects
   • Employers/clients
   • Roles and responsibilities
   • Technologies used

4. Skills & Certifications

   • PLC platforms (Allen Bradley, Siemens, etc.)
   • Programming languages
   • Software tools
   • Manufacturer certifications
   • Safety certifications (optional)

5. Hourly Rate

   • Your desired hourly rate
   • We recommend researching local market rates first
   • See our contractor rate survey →

Profile Creation Flow:

Step 1: Click "Sign Up" → Choose "I'm a Contractor"

Step 2: Basic Info

• First name, last name
• Email, password
• Location (city, state)
• Primary skill (PLC Programmer, Robotics Engineer, etc.)

Step 3: Upload Photo

• Professional headshot (JPG, PNG)
• Max 5MB file size
• Square crop works best (800x800px)

Step 4: Add Work Experience

• Company name
• Job title
• Start date → End date (or "Current")
• Description of responsibilities and accomplishments
• Pro Tip: Use bullet points and quantify results
  • ✅ "Programmed 12 ControlLogix PLCs for automotive assembly line, reducing cycle time 15%"
  • ❌ "Programmed PLCs"

Step 5: Add Skills

• Select from dropdown (e.g., "Allen Bradley ControlLogix")
• Set proficiency level (Beginner, Intermediate, Expert)
• Add manufacturer logos automatically display

Pro Tip: Add at least 5-8 skills. Contractors with 8+ skills listed get 2.5x more profile views.

Step 6: Add Certifications (Optional but Recommended)

• Rockwell Automation certifications
• Siemens certifications
• Safety certifications (TÜV Functional Safety Engineer, etc.)
• Upload certificate PDF if available

Step 7: Set Your Hourly Rate

• Enter your desired rate (e.g., $95/hour)
• This is visible to employers
• You can adjust anytime

Step 8: Write Your Bio (300-500 words)

• Summarize your experience
• Highlight specializations
• Mention industries you've worked in
• Keep it professional but personable

Example Bio:

"I'm a PLC programmer with 8 years of experience specializing in automotive assembly line automation. My expertise includes Allen Bradley ControlLogix, FANUC robot programming, and HMI development with FactoryTalk View. I've commissioned 20+ automotive plants across Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana, delivering projects on time and under budget. I hold Rockwell Automation certifications in ControlLogix programming and safety systems (GuardLogix). Available for on-site or remote contracts."

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Step 2: Complete Your Profile (Boost Visibility)

Profile Completion Matters:

• 0-30% complete: Low visibility (buried in search results)
• 31-70% complete: Medium visibility
• 71-99% complete: High visibility
• 100% complete: Maximum visibility + "Verified" badge

Additional Profile Sections to Complete:

Education:

• Degree, university, graduation year
• Relevant coursework or projects
• Technical school certifications

Portfolio (Highly Recommended):

• Upload photos of completed projects
• HMI screenshots
• Control panel photos
• Before/after videos
• Pro Tip: Blur proprietary information, get client permission

Availability:

• Set your availability status:
  • Available now
  • Available in [X weeks]
  • Not available (profile still visible, but marked)
• Update this regularly!

Willing to Travel:

• Local only (within 50 miles)
• Regional (within 200 miles)
• National (anywhere in U.S.)
• This affects which contracts you'll see

Work Preferences:

• On-site, remote, or hybrid
• Contract duration preferences (short-term vs long-term)
• Industries you prefer (automotive, pharma, food & beverage, etc.)

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Step 3: Browse Contracts (Find Opportunities)

Once your profile is live, you can browse active contracts.

How to Find Contracts:

Browse Feed:

• Homepage shows all active contracts
• Scroll through the feed
• Click any contract to view details

Filter by Location:

• Use the location filter
• Find contracts near you: Detroit, Houston, Chicago

Filter by Skill:

• Select your primary skill (e.g., "Allen Bradley")
• See only relevant contracts

Filter by Rate:

• Set your minimum acceptable rate
• Only see contracts within your range

Understanding Contract Details:

Each contract shows:

• Project Title: "ControlLogix Programmer Needed for Automotive Line"
• Location: Detroit, MI (or "Remote")
• Duration: 3 months, 6 months, ongoing, etc.
• Hourly Rate: $95-$120/hour (or "Negotiable")
• Start Date: Immediate, 2 weeks, etc.
• Description: Project scope, requirements, expectations
• Required Skills: Allen Bradley, FANUC, HMI, etc.
• Employer: Company name (or "AutomateAmerica White Glove" for managed projects)

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Step 4: Apply to Contracts (Land Your First Client)

Found a contract that fits? Here's how to apply effectively.

Application Best Practices:

1. Read the Full Description

• Make sure you have the required skills
• Check location requirements (on-site vs remote)
• Verify rate expectations align with yours

2. Write a Custom Cover Letter (Don't Use Templates!)

Bad Example:

"Hi, I'm interested in this project. I have experience with PLCs. Let me know if you'd like to discuss. Thanks."

Good Example:

"Hello, I'm a ControlLogix programmer with 8 years of automotive experience. I've commissioned similar assembly lines at Ford and GM plants in Michigan. I'm available to start immediately and can be on-site full-time. My rate is $105/hour. I'd be happy to discuss your project timeline and technical requirements. I can provide references from recent automotive projects. Looking forward to connecting."

3. Highlight Relevant Experience

• Mention similar projects you've completed
• Reference specific skills from the job posting
• Quantify results when possible

4. Be Clear About Availability

• State when you can start
• Confirm location requirements (on-site/remote/hybrid)
• Mention any scheduling constraints upfront

5. Attach Portfolio Items (If Relevant)

• HMI screenshots showing similar work
• Project photos
• Reference letters (with permission)

6. Follow Up

• If no response in 3-5 business days, send a polite follow-up message
• Don't spam or send multiple applications

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Step 5: Communicate with Employers

Once an employer responds, keep communication professional and prompt.

Communication Tips:

Respond Quickly:

• Reply within 24 hours (faster is better)
• Employers often interview multiple contractors—first responders have an advantage

Ask Good Questions:

• "What's the project timeline and key milestones?"
• "What PLC platform and software version are you using?"
• "Will I need to be on-site full-time, or is hybrid possible?"
• "What's the commissioning schedule?"
• "Are there any safety certifications required?"

Be Professional:

• Use proper grammar and spelling
• Address employers respectfully
• Don't haggle aggressively on rate (but do negotiate fairly)

Clarify Scope:

• Get details in writing before starting
• Understand deliverables and timeline
• Confirm hourly rate or fixed price

Discuss Logistics:

• Travel reimbursement (if applicable)
• Equipment provided by employer or contractor
• Software licenses (who provides?)
• Invoice schedule (weekly, biweekly, upon completion)

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Step 6: Close the Deal (Contract & Payment)

Standard Contract Flow:

1. Agree on Terms

• Hourly rate or fixed price
• Project duration
• Deliverables and milestones
• Payment schedule

2. Sign Contract (Optional)

• Some employers use FEED's standard contract template
• Others provide their own
• Review carefully before signing

3. Set Up Invoicing

• Most contractors invoice weekly or biweekly
• FEED doesn't handle payments directly (you invoice employer)
• Include: Hours worked, rate, project description, payment terms

4. Start Work

• Begin on agreed start date
• Communicate progress regularly
• Flag any issues early

5. Get Paid

• Submit invoices on schedule
• Most employers pay via ACH, check, or wire transfer
• Payment terms typically NET 15-30 days

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Step 7: Build Your Reputation (Reviews & Ratings)

After completing a project, employers can leave reviews on your profile.

How to Get Great Reviews:

Deliver Quality Work:

• Meet deadlines
• Communicate proactively
• Solve problems independently
• Document your work thoroughly

Exceed Expectations:

• Finish ahead of schedule (when possible)
• Suggest improvements beyond original scope
• Train client personnel
• Provide detailed handoff documentation

Ask for Reviews:

• After successfully completing a project, politely ask: "If you were satisfied with my work, I'd appreciate a review on my AutomateAmerica FEED profile."
• Employers are more likely to leave reviews if reminded

Respond to Reviews:

• Thank employers for positive reviews
• Address negative reviews professionally (explain your side calmly)

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Pro Tips for Success on FEED

1. Keep Your Profile Updated

• Update availability status regularly
• Add new skills and certifications as you earn them
• Upload photos from recent projects
• Refresh your bio every 6 months

2. Respond Fast

• Employers often hire the first qualified contractor who responds
• Enable email notifications for new contract postings
• Check FEED daily

3. Be Realistic About Rates

• Research local market rates: See our rate survey →
• Don't underprice yourself (hurts the entire market)
• Don't overprice if you're entry-level

4. Specialize

• Contractors with clear specializations (e.g., "Siemens safety systems expert") get more targeted, high-value contracts
• Generic "I do everything" profiles get fewer quality leads

5. Network with Other Contractors

• Connect with contractors in your area
• Refer projects you can't take
• Build relationships for subcontracting opportunities

6. Use Keywords

• Employers search for contractors using keywords
• Include specific brand names, software, and certifications in your profile
• Example: "Rockwell ControlLogix," "FANUC R-2000iB," "GuardLogix safety," "FactoryTalk View"

7. Boost Your Profile (Optional)

• FEED offers profile boosting to appear at top of search results
• $49/month for 30-day boost
• Best for contractors in competitive markets
• Learn more about profile boosting →

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Common Questions

Q: Is FEED free for contractors? A: Yes, creating a profile and applying to contracts is 100% free. FEED doesn't take a commission on your earnings. Optional paid features (profile boosting) are available but not required.

Q: How do I get paid? A: You invoice employers directly. FEED doesn't process payments. Discuss payment terms (NET 15, NET 30) with each employer before starting work.

Q: Can I work remotely? A: Many automation projects require some on-site presence (commissioning, troubleshooting), but programming and design work can often be done remotely. Specify your remote/hybrid preferences in your profile.

Q: What if I have a dispute with an employer? A: FEED provides mediation for disputes, but we don't act as an employment agency. Review contracts carefully before starting work. For serious issues, consult a lawyer.

Q: How many contracts can I apply to? A: Unlimited. Apply to as many contracts as you're qualified for and interested in.

Q: Can I use FEED if I already have a full-time job? A: Yes, many contractors use FEED for side projects and weekend work. Be transparent with employers about your availability.

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Next Steps

Today:

1. Create your free contractor profile →
2. Complete all profile sections (aim for 100%)
3. Upload a professional photo
4. Add your top 5-8 skills

This Week:

1. Browse active contracts in your area
2. Apply to 3-5 relevant contracts
3. Add portfolio items (photos, screenshots)
4. Set up email notifications

This Month:

1. Land your first FEED contract
2. Request a review after completion
3. Refine your profile based on feedback
4. Network with other contractors

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