IEC 61131-3 Experts in Germany
matched in minutes from over 15,000 CVsHire experts who design PLC software, structure Structured Text and Function Block Diagram applications, and integrate CODESYS or vendor-specific control environments. FRATCH matches you quickly with vetted, available freelancers whose skills fit your automation project.
Meet FRATCH Experts in Germany, who have recently used IEC 61131-3
Jens R.
Last position:
Platform Architect & Senior Developer at Direct client, industrial measurement technology, medium-sized company
- Technical leadership across hardware, firmware, and software teams; scope: hardware/firmware team (4 people) and leadership group (5 people)
- Consolidated and documented a product family that had grown over more than 15 years and aligned it with CRA compliance — from the bare-metal I/O module to the cloud interface.
- Provided the most important customer product with the essential requirements and architecture documentation within two months — for a firmware landscape that had grown over more than 15 years. It now supports the customer’s modernization strategy.
- Established a monthly reporting line to the supervisory board and executive board within three months: nine meetings since 12/2025. The report itself is versioned and built from the CI pipeline; it is based on automatically collected activity and release data instead of assessments.
- Built a container-based CI/CD infrastructure from scratch: cross-compilation, host tests, and documentation builds in one continuous pipeline.
- Introduced declarative QA gates for DevOps and development artifacts — from the start using lefthook instead of pre-commit, executed in a dedicated container image.
Technologies used: arc42, req42, tpo42, docToolchain, PlantUML, ArchiMate, C4 model, ADR, C, C++ (GTest), CMake, Bare Metal (ARM Cortex-M3/M7), OCI containers, Jenkins, lefthook, Prometheus, Grafana, SBOM, CRA, OPC, SCADA, PLC integration, IPv6 migration, Zero Trust, Sociocracy 3.0, Cynefin
Volker F.
Last position:
Technical Lead | Software Architect | Embedded Software Engineer at Hydac
- Development of safety-related embedded software for a mobile machine on a Hydac TTC 2390 controller.
- Implementation in C with consideration of SIL 3 / ASIL D and MISRA-C:2025.
- Implementation of communication via CAN, CANopen, and J1939.
Standards, guidelines and norms: ISO 26262, IEC 61508, MISRA-C:2025
Technologies: C99, Hydac TTC 2390, Infineon TriCore Aurix TC397, Hightec C/C++ Compiler, PC-lint Plus, CAN, CANopen, J1939, MISRA-C:2025
Hendrik W.
Last position:
Software Test and Maintenance Support at Anton Paar ProveTec GmbH
- Adding/creating test specifications
- Performing regression tests
- Performing release tests
- Analyzing Jira tickets
- Identifying software defects and fixing them with C#
Tamás N.
Last position:
Embedded MISRA C Developer at DEKRA Arbeit GmbH
Task: Test tool development for Smart-Home IoT-based heating control Test tool development for Smart-Home HVAC heating and ventilation. Eliminating memory leaks in C/C++ within the CAN Analyzer application. Reviewing Python and Tcl/Tk code. Reviewing C-based simulator code for BOSCH Home Comfort cascade heating control using Visual Studio Code and Conan/Conda. Reviewing Delphi application: conversion to 64-bit. Reviewing PyQt6 user interface. SiL testing of domestic water heater control for memory leaks. Stability testing and continuous operation. Migration to Windows 11 24H2. Developing device connectivity with WinSock2 (WSAAPI, recv, send, select) for EMS/CAN IoT communication with C. Testing with virtual machines and Server Manager. Writing reports about the test cases. Logging with the RoboTT framework. Creating test procedure documentation with Docupedia. Bare-metal programming of embedded STM32 Cortex-M and simulation with Renode.io. In-depth familiarization with the SEGGER EmbOS firmware framework and its related system calls. Reviewing MATLAB/Sinumerik .m program files. Implementing redesigned OS schedulers in SEGGER EmbOS.Technologies: Embarcadero RAD Studio 10.2, Visual Studio Code, Sourcetree, Conan, Cmake, Conda, EmbOS, PyQt6, Qt6, Delphi VCL 32-bit, CAN, EMS, Powershell, MingW64, STM32 ARM-Cortex-M4F Renode.io, Windows Server 2022 Standard, RoboTT, IoT
Kusay T.
Last position:
Freelance System & Software Architect - DNA-Extraction Robot at QIAGEN GmbH
- System and software architecture for the QIA-symphony Connect DNA-extraction robot in Life Science / IVD automation.
- Designed features and control logic for extraction, pipetting, lysis and eluate modules using C++, PLC/ST (Beckhoff IPC / TwinCAT 3) and model-based concepts.
- Delivered ISO 13485-oriented requirements, architecture, unit/integration/regression tests and DHF/VEP/VER/TCL documentation.
- Used Polarion, Jira, Confluence, Azure and AI-assisted documentation to improve traceability and engineering efficiency.
Jürgen K.
Last position:
Project Management and System Architecture at 3E-motion Ventures GmbH
- Managed and developed the system architecture for the INEOS Grenadier model year 2028/29, ensuring interaction of all E/E system components according to GB/T 32960.
- Developed a product reference model for the entire E/E system of the vehicle.
- Coordinated requirements for Battery Management Systems (BMS) between OEM and suppliers at SYS.1 and SYS.2 levels for VW and Porsche.
- Created and aligned requirements for BMS fan control and OBD within Polarion.
- Developed a secure system architecture for steer-by-wire systems, including ECU hardware, software, and communication.
- Integrated various process design approaches from CARIAD, including SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework), FUSE/FAME, and RFLP, with ASPICE requirements.
- Created a process model in ESCAPE mapping essential components of SAFe onto ASPICE.
- Served as Lead Architect for electric drive development, focusing on parklock and cooling and lubrication functions for Mercedes AMG.
- Analyzed requirements in Integrity and developed functional models in UML using Enterprise Architect.
- Developed generic models for parklock and cooling functions, including sequence diagrams and a navigation model for the overall project.
Tilmann S.
Last position:
Technical Expert, Software Architect at Rolls Royce Power Systems / MTU
- Created concepts and architecture for ECU diagnostics over CAN-Bus using UDS, PDX, ODX and safety paradigms
- Designed system deployment for EMS and documented using UML, Draw.io, MS Word, MS Visio and Confluence
- Developed process flows for development, planning, logistics, test & diagnostics in Scrum with Jira and MS Planner
- Communicated across multiple customer teams, conducted knowledge transfer
Peter K.
Last position:
Hardware and Software Developer / Project Manager at Anonymer Kunde
- Development of control units for the automotive industry incl. embedded software
- CAN bus, Vector Tools, CANoe
- Support of the development process according to ISO 26262
- Ensuring cyber security standards:
- Key exchange (PKI) between vehicle and control units
- Hardware Security Module (HSM)
- Communication with external service providers (international)
- Development (PCB) of measuring adapters, statistical analysis of sensors
- IoT and embedded software development, backend administration
Andreas N.
Last position:
Open Source Founder at Privatier
- AI-supported source code analysis
- AI image generation for a shirt shop
- AI-supported analysis of connected YouTube channels and commenting users
- AI-supported software prototyping
- Operation of a local AI environment
- 3D printing and scanning: development of a process to repair GfK parts using 3D-printed negative molds
The focus is on practical applications of new technologies, founding an open-source project for a yacht autopilot, as well as yacht refit and motorhome conversion.
Natdanai P.
Last position:
Software Developer for SiC-Mold Production Line at Vitesco Technologies Germany GmbH
- Developing software solutions based on technical requirements and existing systems
- Developing TLV commands for automated laser cleaning and laser power measurement
- Supporting and assisting production processes
- Performing software tests as well as analyzing and fixing errors
- Integrating and connecting MES systems
- Using C# and Structured Text (ST according to IEC 61131-3)
- Using TwinCAT 3.1 as the development environment
- Implementing visualizations with Windows Forms
- Working with Beckhoff CX controllers and Stäubli industrial robots
- Using Ethernet and EtherCAT networks
- Integrating TRUMPF TruMark 3330 and 7050 laser systems
- Using a KEYENCE vision system
- Version control with Git and GitLab
Arnauld S.
Last position:
PLC Programmer/Maintenance Technician at Tiernahrung Deuerer GmbH
- Planning of automation systems
- PLC programming (Simatic S7, TIA Portal: AWL, SCL, FUP, KOP)
- Visualization of automation systems (WinCC, Sirvac, GUI)
- Commissioning of systems with various drives and sensors
- Creating and maintaining documentation and training materials
Thomas S.
Last position:
Automation Technology Lecturer at HWK Munich and Upper Bavaria
- Training professionals in PLC technology, pneumatics, control engineering, and KUKA robots
- Creating scripts for Siemens systems: STEP 5, STEP 7, TIA Portal, WinCC
- Creating scripts for pneumatics, control engineering, and KUKA robot programming
- Serving on the examination committee for quality assurance in vocational training
- Training and certifying over 500 professionals
Wolfgang F.
Last position:
Delphi Software Developer at Goebel Instrumentelle Analytik
- Took over software development and further development of an HPLC and photometer control and evaluation system
- Skills: software development · software system engineering · Microsoft SQL Server · software design · Delphi · HPLC · analytics · PDF · product data management
Okan A.
Last position:
Team Leader / Project Manager at OEM in the Stuttgart area
- development, setup and deployment of a custom HIL system for aerodynamic components
- adaptation of the system specification and creation of the test specification
- coordination and planning of test cases, as well as specification of component and K-HIL tests at the system level and in integration
- planning, specification and execution of interface tests
- participation in vehicle trials
- led a team of 10 members following classic and agile A-SPICE standards with development according to the V-model
- Tools used: Jira, MS Project, GitTea, Gox, Confluence, KPM, MoveIT, DOORS, PTC Integrity, Intense, JFrog
Stefan P.
Last position:
Managing Director at ootb automation GmbH
- Sales of scalable automation applications in the field of machine control
Discover over 15,000 top freelancers
Statistics of experts using IEC 61131-3
Aggregated from the professional profiles of matched freelancers.
Experience
25 years
Position duration
4.7 years
Positions per freelancer
14
Top business areas
Product Development, Information Technology, Quality Assurance
Top industries
Manufacturing, Information Technology, Automotive
Certification focus areas
Information Technology, Product Development, Business Intelligence
Bachelor's degree or higher
92%
Master's degree or higher
62%
Doctorate
15%
Certifications per freelancer
2
Most common languages
German, English, French
Speak two or more languages
100%
Based on our profile pool as of 29 Oct 2026.
Daily rate distribution
The chart shows how the daily rates of experts in this technology in Germany are distributed, based on recent contracts on our platform. Each bar covers a rate range — its height shows the share of experts charging within that range.
Discover detailed IEC 61131-3 rate benchmarks:
Explore rate insightsAverage rates of experts in Germany using IEC 61131-3
Rates are based on recent contracts and do not include FRATCH margin.
The average daily rate is the mean of all daily rates from recent contracts of comparable freelancers on our platform.
The median daily rate is the middle value of all daily rates — half of comparable freelancers charge less, half charge more. Unlike the average, it is barely affected by outliers.
Calculated based on our freelancers’ daily rates as of 29 Oct 2026. Actual rates may vary depending on seniority level, experience, skill specialization, project complexity, and engagement length.
IEC 61131-3 experts industry focus
See which industries our matched freelancers work in most often — every figure is calculated live from the freelancers on FRATCH.
- Manufacturing (100%)
- Information Technology (69%)
- Automotive (63%)
- Education (56%)
- Energy (50%)
- Healthcare (44%)
- Telecommunication (25%)
- Banking and Finance (19%)
Please note that freelancers can work across multiple industries, so percentages overlap.
About the technology
Standard and purpose
IEC 61131-3 is the international standard for programming programmable logic controllers and related industrial control systems. It defines common programming concepts and languages, including Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram and Sequential Function Chart. The standard helps teams create automation software that is easier to structure, review and maintain across control hardware.
Languages and tooling
The ecosystem combines language knowledge with practical familiarity with PLC runtimes, engineering environments and field devices. CODESYS is a widely used development environment, while Siemens TIA Portal, Rockwell Studio 5000 and other vendor tools apply related IEC 61131-3 concepts with their own conventions. Strong specialists understand libraries, reusable function blocks, online diagnostics, version control and commissioning workflows.
Industrial applications
IEC 61131-3 projects control machines, production lines and process equipment in manufacturing, logistics, energy and building automation. Typical deliverables include:
- PLC programs for sequencing, motion and interlocks
- Operator interfaces, alarms and process visualisation
- Communication with drives, sensors, robots and safety systems
- Reusable control modules and machine state models
When companies need specialists
Companies often bring in freelance expertise when a new machine must be commissioned, an existing PLC application needs modernisation or an internal team lacks capacity for a delivery phase. Germany-based projects may require on-site work for testing and handover, while design, code reviews and documentation can often be handled remotely. Clear German or English communication matters when several suppliers share responsibility.
Skills beyond the standard
The strongest professionals connect IEC 61131-3 programming with the complete automation context. They can interpret electrical schematics, map I/O, configure industrial networks and work with HMI, SCADA, drives and safety concepts. Depending on the plant, useful adjacent knowledge includes PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, Modbus TCP, robotics and machine-data integration.
Quality and delivery
Quality is visible in predictable machine behaviour, readable code and controlled changes. Look for specialists who explain their naming conventions, test approach, fault handling and commissioning plan, then show how they document function blocks and operational assumptions. Relevant experience should match the controller family, motion or process demands, safety boundaries and lifecycle stage of the project rather than only the standard’s name.
Frequently asked questions
Key details about IEC 61131-3, drawn from the questions we get asked most.
IEC 61131-3 is used to structure software for programmable logic controllers and industrial automation systems. It covers languages such as Structured Text, Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram and Sequential Function Chart, which control machines, production lines and process equipment.
IEC 61131-3 provides a common framework across control systems, while vendor environments may add proprietary libraries, workflows and hardware-specific features. Compared with a purely vendor-specific approach, it can improve portability and code structure, but a specialist still needs practical knowledge of the selected controller and its toolchain.
A strong IEC 61131-3 specialist may also work with HMI and SCADA systems, industrial networks, drives, robotics and safety functions. Experience with PROFINET, EtherNet/IP, OPC UA, Modbus TCP, electrical documentation and commissioning is often valuable.
The right level depends on the scope. A small code change may need focused knowledge of one PLC platform, while a new production line requires experience with architecture, sequencing, diagnostics, testing and commissioning. For IEC 61131-3, matching the specialist to the controller family and machine type matters more than a generic experience label.
IEC 61131-3 development, documentation, simulation and code review can often be completed remotely. On-site presence is commonly needed for cabinet checks, device testing, commissioning and production handover, so the engagement should define access, travel and safety responsibilities early.
Ask the specialist to explain a real control sequence, fault strategy, function-block structure and testing method. For IEC 61131-3, quality also shows in readable naming, traceable changes, clear documentation and careful handling of restart behaviour, interlocks and communication failures.
Structured Text is powerful for calculations, data handling and reusable logic, but it is not always the best choice for every task. Ladder Diagram, Function Block Diagram and Sequential Function Chart can make sequences, diagnostics or maintenance work clearer, so the best choice depends on the plant, team and controller.
Clarify the PLC and software versions, project stage, required languages, machine interfaces, safety boundaries, test environment and access to hardware. For IEC 61131-3 work, also confirm coding standards, source-control practices, documentation expectations and whether commissioning support in Germany is required.
The average hourly rate of freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects is 99 €, which corresponds to a daily rate of about 794 € based on an 8-hour working day.
Of the freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects, 92% hold at least a Bachelor's degree, 62% hold at least a Master's degree, and 15% hold a doctorate.
On average, freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects have 25 years of professional experience, with a single engagement typically lasting around 4.7 years.
The most common languages among freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects are German (100%), English (88%), and French (31%).
The most common industries among freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects are Manufacturing (100%), Information Technology (69%), and Automotive (63%).
The most common business areas among freelancers in Germany who have used IEC 61131-3 in their recent projects are Product Development (100%), Information Technology (88%), and Quality Assurance (88%).
Main locations of FRATCH Experts, who have recently used IEC 61131-3
Our freelancers and interim experts are at home across the DACH region — available on-site in the major business hubs or fully remote. Choose a location to discover matched specialists, local market insights and up-to-date availability.
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