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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Venteon

Controls Automation Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Controls Automation Engineer - Mt. Pleasant, IA Minimum 2 years of experience as a Controls Automation Engineer Venteon is currently seeking a Controls Automation Engineer to fill an opening with a ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

THE COMPANY Invio Automation is an Industry 4.0 automation leader that serves a variety of high ... DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

THE COMPANY Invio Automation is an Industry 4.0 automation leader that serves a variety of high ... DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using programmable logic controllers ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using programmable logic controllers ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using programmable logic controllers ...

Continental

Controls /Automation Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation, Controls Automation, mechatronics, or related engineering field * 2+ years' experience with control systems in a manufacturing environment

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... Support and expand plant automation capabilities to improve process reliability, operational ...

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All JobsAutomation Controls Engineer JobsAutomation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Automation Controls Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$43.2K

$92.2K

$132K

How much do automation controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation controls engineer in Iowa is $92,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $103,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Automation Controls Engineers?

Automation Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems that automate manufacturing and industrial processes. They typically work with hardware and software such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), and robotic systems to ensure efficient and reliable operation of automated equipment. Their responsibilities include programming control systems, troubleshooting electrical and control issues, and collaborating with other engineers to optimize production processes. Automation Controls Engineers play a crucial role in improving productivity, safety, and quality in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy.

What Does an Automation Controls Engineer Do?

Automation controls engineers help create the layout of electrical and mechanical control systems. In this role, you may help program an automation process, modify existing programming when necessary, and help ensure the company is using the safest and most productive system possible for its needs. You may also be responsible for creating training documentation to show employees how to control and adjust their operations. Most automation control engineers work in manufacturing plants and similar companies where physical automation is used to speed up production tasks. This job should not be confused with automation programming outside of the manufacturing sector, such as software programming.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, control systems, and automation, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These skills ensure reliable system integration, efficient troubleshooting, and successful collaboration in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Automation Controls Engineers face when working on new system integrations?

Automation Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy equipment and new control systems, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (mechanical, electrical, and software), and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Troubleshooting unforeseen problems during testing phases and maintaining clear documentation are also frequent hurdles. Proactive communication and thorough planning help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth integration projects.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectAutomation Controls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering; certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) are commonRequires a degree in electrical engineering; licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) may be preferred
Work EnvironmentWorks primarily in manufacturing, automation, and control system settingsWorks in various sectors including power, construction, and manufacturing, often focusing on electrical systems
Industry UsageCommonly employed in automation, process control, and manufacturing industriesUsed across power generation, construction, and industrial sectors

Automation Controls Engineers focus on designing, programming, and maintaining control systems for automation processes, while Electrical Engineers have a broader scope involving electrical system design and analysis. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industrial settings, but their primary responsibilities and certifications differ.

More about Automation Controls Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Engineer jobs in IA? For Automation Controls Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,223 per year, or $44.3 per hour.
Automation & Controls Engineer

Automation & Controls Engineer

MARSHALLTOWN COMPANY

Marshalltown, IA

$77K - $102K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Work for the market leader of construction tools at MARSHALLTOWN. 

Our facilities are top-notch, and company culture is healthy.  Decisions are made quickly, good ideas are embraced, excellence and effort are rewarded.  We have the resources to do what we need to do when we need to do it!

Sound like something you want to be a part of?

The Automation and Controls Engineer is responsible for designing, testing, and troubleshooting electrical control systems in the MARSHALLTOWN production facility. They manage the electrical and programming tasks of automation projects to conform with safety and quality standards as well as product specifications.

A successful candidate is someone who works well in cross-functional teams, is a hands-on problem solver, and can apply their industry experience to MARSHALLTOWN projects.

Responsibilities:

  • Specify, source, and test components for use in automation systems. This will include PLCs, robots, vision systems, motors and drives, sensors, networking equipment, etc.
  • Prepare detailed electrical drawings to facilitate fabrication.
  • Programming PLCs and HMIs.
  • Troubleshoot and perform root-cause analysis to diagnose hardware malfunctions and software issues.
  • Support and continuously improve existing automated systems.
  • Lead project activities to coordinate work among multiple engineering disciplines.
  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering from accredited university
  • 5+ years of progressive automation engineering and robotics experience in a manufactured products environment.
  • Experience with electrical drawing software such as AutoCAD Electrical.
  • Experience programming PLCs and HMIs including initial program creation (Allen Bradley experience preferred).
  • Experience designing safety circuitry for automation cells.
  • Experience with FANUC robots and Ignition strongly preferred.
  • Experience with manufacturing equipment in the areas of forging, stamping, casting, welding, machining, & assembly.
  • Strong technical zeal, critical thinking, problem solving, and troubleshooting experience.
  • Strong communication skills to interface with product development, manufacturing, marketing, finance, and supplier personnel.
  • Strong data analysis and decision-making skills to drive projects to successful completion on schedule.

Note: transcripts and references will be requested 

MARSHALLTOWN offers comprehensive total rewards packages to include competitive wages, matching 401k retirement plans, dental, Traditional and High Deductible Health Plans with employer HSA contributions, immediate vacation eligibility, just to name a few!

MARSHALLTOWN is proud to provide equal employment opportunity to individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, gender, age, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, protected disability or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal or local law.

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