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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA

$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 ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system programs for our Equipment and Automation (E&A) machinery, ensuring all developments are fully ...

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 ...

Paper Converting Machine

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system programs for our Equipment and Automation (E&A) machinery, ensuring all developments are fully ...

Barry-Wehmiller Companies

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system programs for our Equipment and Automation (E&A) machinery, ensuring all developments are fully ...

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 ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... Identify and implement automation and process improvement opportunities that enhance safety ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... Identify and implement automation and process improvement opportunities that enhance safety ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... Identify and implement automation and process improvement opportunities that enhance safety ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor ... Identify and implement automation and process improvement opportunities that enhance safety ...

Stryten Manufacturing

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

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 ...

New

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 ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 19, 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 is an automation controls engineer?

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.

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Automation Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Contract. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,223 per year, or $44.3 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Tri-City Group

Davenport, IA

$74K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Tri-City Group is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for Davenport, IA. The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services, and participating in sales and marketing calls.


Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or an Associates' Degree in Electrical Engineering with substantial industrial controls experience
  • Strong communication skills both orally and in writing, a strong attention to detail and safety, and representing the company with professionalism and integrity.
  • Experience should involve working with industrial electrical power and control systems in design engineering, maintenance engineering, or an operations capacity. Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using programmable logic controllers from Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and GE is preferred.
  • Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using PC operator interfaces or SCADA software from Citect, Intellution, Wonderware, or Rockwell software and experience working with industrial sensors and instrumentation is also preferred.


All job offers are contingent upon completing a drug screen and reference check. Tri-City Group is an equal-opportunity employer.

Apply