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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/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 ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Reporting through the automation engineering team, while your primary focus will be on our ... The Sr. Process Controls Engineer will be the go-to person for new process improvement ...

STRYTEN ENERGY

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Reporting through the automation engineering team, while your primary focus will be on our ... The Sr. Process Controls Engineer will be the go-to person for new process improvement ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Reporting through the automation engineering team, while your primary focus will be on our ... The Sr. Process Controls Engineer will be the go-to person for new process improvement ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Reporting through the automation engineering team, while your primary focus will be on our ... The Sr. Process Controls Engineer will be the go-to person for new process improvement ...

TPI Composites

Engineer, Automation & Controls

Newton, IA

$76K - $99K/yr

Develops and maintains a schedule and budget for assigned engineering projects. Provides reports on the status of project milestones and adjusts schedules accordingly. Controls expenditures within ...

TPI Composites

Engineer, Automation & Controls

Newton, IA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... engineering projects. • Provides reports on the status of project milestones and adjusts schedules accordingly. • Controls expenditures within limitations of project budget. • Identifies ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · Hybrid

$81K - $105K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Lincoln Electric

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

The Company operates 71 manufacturing and automation facilities across 20 countries and serves ... is seeking a Controls Engineer to play a key role in the electrical design, development, and ...

Lincoln Electric

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA

$22.50 - $33/hr

The Company operates 71 manufacturing and automation facilities across 20 countries and serves ... is seeking a Controls Engineer to play a key role in the electrical design, development, and ...

Lincoln Electric

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

The Company operates 71 manufacturing and automation facilities across 20 countries and serves ... is seeking a Controls Engineer to play a key role in the electrical design, development, and ...

Automationtechies

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design, and PLC systems (i.e ...

Automationtechies

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across ... logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design, and PLC systems (i.e ...

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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.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Hydrite

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Hydrite Chemical rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

84th of 91 rated chemical manufacturers

Job description

WHO WE ARE
We are a company where people matter.
We are family driven.
We are financially strong.
And we are looking for problem-solvers to join our growing team.
BENEFITS
  • Up to 10% Retirement Contribution
  • $600 per Year Wellness Incentive
  • Front-loaded Paid Time Off
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision - Eligible first day of the month following hire date.

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nlFHnnfvhk
CONTROLS ENGINEER
The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems (PLC/DCS/HMI) and related instrumentation. This role executes standards, implements changes through the MOC process, maintains Maximo PM/calibration plans, and ensures reliable data collection and historian integrations to support safe and efficient operations across assigned facilities.
Primary responsibilities include:
  • Lead and support Hydrite's safety vision, mission, and values by promoting safe work practices across all controls, instrumentation, and contractor activities.
  • Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and standards (including PSM, RMP, and MOC requirements) through collaboration with SQRA and other regulatory stakeholders.
  • Evaluate, design, program, install, test, commission, and sustain plant control systems (primarily Delta V but can include PLC, SCADA, HMI) and associated instrumentation.
  • Maintain the functional integrity and lifecycle reliability of control systems through troubleshooting, hardware/software updates, backups, calibration, and preventive maintenance execution.
  • Execute control system changes in accordance with the controls Management of Change (MOC) process, including audits to verify compliance.
  • Develop, maintain, and enforce control system standards, procedures, practices, security requirements, and engineering documentation across facilities.
  • Program, test, and commission control system changes, including loop tuning, control optimization, interlock testing, alarm rationalization, FAT/SAT, startup, and operational handover.
  • Provide controls engineering support for capital projects, including procurement support, system configuration, commissioning, and startup of new systems or equipment.
  • Own execution plans and technical quality for assigned controls and automation projects.
  • Develop, maintain, and standardize DeltaV and PLC configurations, programming practices, I/O lists, cabinet drawings, and related documentation.
  • Support and expand plant automation capabilities to improve process reliability, operational efficiency, and production performance.
  • Configure, maintain, and expand data historians and data collection systems to ensure data quality, tagging standards, accessibility, and business value.
  • Improve access, visualization, and presentation of control system and process data to support operations, engineering, compliance, and management decision-making.
  • Execute, manage, and support preventive maintenance and calibration programs within Maximo, including development of job plans aligned with SOPs.
  • Support small-scale and stand-alone control systems (e.g., skid-mounted PLC/HMI systems) while ensuring cybersecurity, backup, and recovery practices.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for control systems, instrumentation, and plant data systems.
  • Provide technical support, guidance, and training to operations, maintenance, and engineering personnel on control system usage and standards.
  • Develop and maintain training materials and conduct training for control systems, instrumentation, and data collection platforms.
  • Mentor technicians and junior engineers and share knowledge across sites and engineering disciplines.
  • Collaborate with electrical, instrumentation, IT/OT, and engineering teams to support industrial networks, servers, and control system security.
  • Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve plant automation, information systems, KPIs, and technology adoption and present recommendations to management.
  • Ensure control system documentation (P&IDs, loop diagrams, cabinet drawings, I/O lists) remains accurate and up to date.
  • Uphold Hydrite's Standard of Excellence by supporting quality systems, effective communication, and continuous improvement across facilities.

REPORTING STRUCTURE
  • This position reports to the Engineering, Automation, and Controls Manager.

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE
  • A Bachler's degree in Engineering or related technical discipline required
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience with instrumentation and control systems
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience interfacing with contractors
  • Strong computer skills and knowledge of Power Point, Word, and Excel required
  • Must have communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to read, write and speak English

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Ability to sit and/or stand up to 10 hours per day.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. on an occasional basis.
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at heights up to 40 feet on occasion.
  • Ability to travel overnight, ride in a car and/or plane for up to 6 hrs and travel 25% of time.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS
Benefits and perks include 401k and profit sharing, medical/dental/vision/life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, legal services insurance, scholarship awards for children of employees, summer picnic, community giving events, free family wellness coaching including nutritionist and fitness coach.
WANT TO STAY CONNECTED? FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite-chemical-co-
  • Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite
  • YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs_493NR8RI

Learn more about Hydrite on our website: www.hydrite.com/careers
Privacy Notice for California Residents: https://www.hydrite.com/Legal/Privacy-Notice-for-Employees.htm

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