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Automation Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Automation Technician

Charles City, IA · On-site

$38K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements: (Text Only) Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering ...

Automation Technician

Charles City, IA

$38K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements · Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or a ...

Automation Technician

Charles City, IA · On-site

$38K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements • Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or a ...

Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ...

Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ...

Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ...

Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ...

Automation Technician II

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$39K/yr

Associates in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES ...

Automation Technician II

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$41K/yr

Associates in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES ...

Automation Technician II

Davenport, IA · On-site

$37K/yr

Associates in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES ...

Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS * Valid driver's license MENTAL AND PHYSICAL ...

2ND SHIFT AUTOMATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$39K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Maintenance Technician (Automation Technician) DEPARTMENT: Electronic and Reliability LOCATION ... Bachelor, Associates, or AAS Degree in related field preferred * Experience with PLC preferred

2ND SHIFT AUTOMATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$39K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Maintenance Technician (Automation Technician) DEPARTMENT: Electronic and Reliability LOCATION ... Bachelor, Associates, or AAS Degree in related field preferred * Experience with PLC preferred

2ND SHIFT AUTOMATION MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$39K/yr

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

Maintenance Technician (Automation Technician) DEPARTMENT:Electronic and Reliability LOCATION ... Bachelor, Associates, or AAS Degree in related field preferred * Experience with PLC preferred

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Showing results 1-20

Automation Associate information

What is the difference between Automation Associate vs Process Technician?

AspectAutomation AssociateProcess Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree in engineering, automation, or related field; certifications in PLC or automation systemsHigh school diploma or technical certification; some roles may require an associate degree
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation labs, industrial settingsManufacturing floors, production lines, industrial facilities
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation companies, industrial sectorsManufacturing, process industries, production facilities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding automation roles, career paths in automationUnderstanding process roles, technical troubleshooting

The Automation Associate and Process Technician roles often overlap in manufacturing environments, but Automation Associates focus more on automation systems, programming, and system integration, while Process Technicians handle day-to-day process operations and troubleshooting. Both roles require technical skills and industry experience, but Automation Associates typically have more specialized training in automation technology.

What is an automation associate?

Automation Associates are professionals who support the implementation, maintenance, and improvement of automated systems within an organization. They typically work with software tools, robotics, or process automation solutions to streamline workflows, reduce manual labor, and increase efficiency. Their responsibilities can include testing automation systems, troubleshooting issues, documenting processes, and collaborating with other team members to optimize operations. Automation Associates often work in industries such as manufacturing, IT, finance, and logistics, where automation can drive significant productivity gains.

What are some common challenges automation associates face when implementing new automation solutions?

Automation Associates often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation tools with legacy systems, ensuring minimal disruption to existing workflows, and addressing resistance to change from team members. Effective communication and collaboration with IT, operations, and end-users are essential to identify process requirements and troubleshoot issues quickly. Staying proactive about learning new technologies and best practices can also help overcome these challenges and contribute to successful automation initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation associate?

To thrive as an Automation Associate, you need a solid foundation in process automation concepts, scripting or programming languages (such as Python or VBA), and a relevant degree in engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with automation tools like UiPath, Blue Prism, or Automation Anywhere, as well as experience with workflow management and testing frameworks, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set standout candidates apart. These competencies enable you to design efficient automated solutions, minimize errors, and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Automation jobs in Iowa are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Associate jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Associate jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.

Automation Technician

Cambrex

Charles City, IA • On-site

$38K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago


Cambrex rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Information

You Matter to Cambrex.

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance development and manufacturing across the entire drug lifecycle, as well as comprehensive analytical and IND enabling services. 

With over 40 years of experience and a team of 2,000 experts servicing global clients from North America and Europe, Cambrex offers a range of specialized drug substance technologies and capabilities, including continuous flow, controlled substances, liquid-phase peptide synthesis, solid-state science, material characterization, and highly potent APIs.

Your Work Matters.

At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to:

  • engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve
  • learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment
  • strengthen connections with coworkers and the community

We're committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company.  We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!

Your Future Matters.

Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!

Overview:

As part of the Engineering Department, the Automation Technician will support and maintain the plant-wide Distributed Control System (DCS), standalone PLCs, and plant alarm systems. This role is primarily focused on hands-on implementation, operational troubleshooting, and day-to-day production support to ensure reliable system performance. The Automation Technician will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, and Engineering to identify and resolve automation-related issues, support system modifications, and assist with maintaining automation documentation.

Responsibilities:

Provide day-to-day automation support for Operations, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, Maintenance, and Production Engineering to ensure safe and efficient production operations.

Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to DCS, PLC, alarm systems, and associated instrumentation.

Assist with the implementation and testing of automation system modifications and upgrades under the guidance of engineering leadership.

Support startup activities, system commissioning, and validation efforts related to automation systems.

Maintain and update loop sheets, system hierarchy documentation, drawings, and related records to ensure accurate system documentation.

Coordinate with contractors and vendors performing automation-related work onsite and ensure compliance with applicable policies and procedures.

Train end users on system updates and changes to support proper operation of DCS and related systems.

Provide ongoing production support to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.

Support capital projects by assisting with automation-related implementation activities as needed.

All employees are required to adhere to DEA, EPA, FDA and cGMP regulations as they relate to the operation of the Company; and to adhere to all company safety rules and procedures. All employees are expected to report to work regularly and promptly. Other duties relating to departmental mission, not specifically detailed in this section may be assigned.

Qualifications / Skills:

Experience with equipment and instrumentation troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment preferred.

Knowledge of instrument control systems, installation, testing, and maintenance practices preferred.

Familiarity with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) preferred.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other computer-based systems.

Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Knowledge of cGMP and FDA regulated environments is beneficial.

Education, Experience, and Licensing Requirements: (Text Only) Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or a related technical discipline preferred. Candidates with other relevant educational backgrounds, technical training, military experience, or demonstrated automation competencies will be considered based on applicable experience and technical knowledge. Two (2) or more years of experience supporting Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLC systems, industrial automation systems, and/or plant alarm systems preferred.  Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Cambrex employees say

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Benefits

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About Cambrex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Rutherford, NJ, US

Year founded

1981

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