Go contracting. I've been contracting since 1993. I get the number of hours written in the contract and anything else must be paid. I sometimes work extra if I think I've taken too long to do something but that's rare. Some companies here in Sydney are notorious for asking for extra unpaid hours. I haven't worked for them yet. Been interviewed and told them I'd be happy to work the extra hours if the pay reflected my usual hourly rate. 

Btw, if the project needs it and the deadline is real, I'll work longer hours as long as I'm either paid for it or get time off in lieu. That's reasonable. Give and take on both sides.

Kimbo