15 Real-World Reasons OEMs Rely on Contractors for Their Automation Needs
In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) often face critical challenges that can slow down production, strain internal teams, or jeopardize project timelines. Hiring full-time engineers isn’t always the most effective—or feasible—solution. That’s where contracting external automation engineers becomes not just helpful, but essential.
Here are 15 common situations where OEMs benefit from partnering with outside automation experts:
1. When they need to accelerate the software design phase
Tight deadlines and ambitious production schedules require fast, efficient development cycles. Contracted engineers can step in to move software design forward without delay.
2. When there’s no time to recruit, interview, and onboard a PLC programmer
The hiring process takes time—time many OEMs simply don’t have. External engineers can be deployed quickly and start delivering from day one.
3. When no internal trainers are available to onboard new hires
Without the right mentorship in place, onboarding becomes a bottleneck. Experienced external engineers come fully trained and ready to integrate.
4. When their internal team is underperforming or overwhelmed
Projects stall when internal teams are stretched too thin. Bringing in outside experts reduces the risk of delays or costly errors.
5. When they only need additional engineering capacity temporarily
For short-term peaks in workload, hiring full-time staff isn’t always justifiable. Contracted automation engineers provide the flexibility OEMs need.
6. When a project requires expertise in specific standards or customer specifications
Whether it’s VASS, Ford standards, or other OEM requirements, specialized knowledge isn’t always available in-house.
7. When their in-house engineers are fully allocated to other projects
Rather than overloading existing staff, external engineers can help balance workloads and keep multiple projects moving forward.
8. When entering a new market or working with a new client
New geographies or sectors often come with new expectations. Engineers with local experience or niche industry knowledge can make all the difference.
9. When ramping up for factory acceptance tests (FAT) or commissioning
These are critical project phases that require speed, focus, and experience—qualities a skilled external team can provide on-site.
10. When looking to reduce long-term overhead costs
Outsourcing engineering support as needed keeps fixed costs low and productivity high.
11. When facing tight deadlines after project scope changes or delays
Last-minute changes are a reality in automation projects. Additional support can get things back on track—fast.
12. When dealing with legacy systems or outdated PLC platforms
Some systems require specialized knowledge that’s no longer common. External engineers often bring this rare expertise.
13. When they need an objective, outside perspective
An external engineer can review, optimize, or even rewrite existing logic without internal bias.
14. When internal hiring is frozen due to budget or headcount constraints
Contracted engineers offer a solution that bypasses corporate hiring freezes while still keeping work moving.
15. When supporting installations or service work abroad
Travel-ready, independent engineers reduce the burden on internal staff and help ensure success on global projects.
Final Thoughts
External automation engineers are more than just extra hands—they’re a strategic asset. Whether you need specialized expertise, flexible staffing, or a short-term boost to meet a deadline, contracting the right engineers can help your team stay competitive and deliver on time.
At KPD Automation, we specialize in providing project-ready PLC programmers trained to work independently and meet the highest industry standards. If you’re facing any of the challenges above, we’re here to help.