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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Electrical Automation Manager

Wilton, IA ยท On-site

$52 - $62/hr

... controls improvements - Work professionally with operations, maintenance, engineering, and project stakeholders Requirements: - Electrical automation, controls leadership, or industrial electrical ...

Contract Responsibilities: - Lead or support electrical, controls, and automation work in a ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

Contract Responsibilities: - Lead or support electrical, controls, and automation work in a ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

Contract Responsibilities: - Lead or support electrical, controls, and automation work in a ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

PLC Automation Programmer

Davenport, IA ยท On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Rinvio is hiring a PLC Automation Programmer for PLC, controls, and manufacturing automation support in the Davenport, IA area. Pay: $40-$55/hour, based on experience Location: Davenport, IA Schedule ...

PLC Automation Programmer

Iowa City, IA ยท On-site

$40 - $55/hr

Rinvio is hiring a PLC Automation Programmer for PLC, controls, and manufacturing automation support in the Iowa City, IA area. Pay: $40-$55/hour, based on experience Location: Iowa City, IA Schedule ...

Rinvio is hiring a PLC Automation Programmer for PLC, controls, and manufacturing automation support in the Cedar Rapids, IA area. Pay: $40-$55/hour, based on experience Location: Cedar Rapids, IA ...

Automation Engineer The Automation Engineer provides critical automation support across Operations ... Collaborate with controls engineering and other technical teams to optimize system performance and ...

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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.

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:
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.
Industrial Automation & Robotics Instructor

Industrial Automation & Robotics Instructor

North Iowa Area Community College

Mason City, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS INSTRUCTOR
CATEGORY/LEVEL: Faculty (9-monthcontract)
BASICFUNCTION: The Industrial Automation & Robotics Instructor is responsiblefor teaching courses in industrial robotics, automation systems, electrical andelectronic principles, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and relatedtechnologies; facilitating student learning and success; and developingcurriculum and instructional strategies that meet the needs of students,industry partners, and the regional manufacturing sector. Instruction will bedelivered across multiple modalities and pedagogical approaches, includingclassroom-based teaching and experiential, hands-on laboratory learning. Inconsultation with the Dean, the instructor will oversee lab, equipment, andproject activities, ensuring effective support for daily operations and safe,efficient use of technology and tools. The instructor will also support programinitiatives such as community outreach, student recruitment, and developing andmaintaining strong relationships with industry partners.
START DATE: August 2026
SALARY AND BENEFITS: Salary based on education andexperience. Benefits package includes Blue Cross/Blue Shield major medicalhealth insurance; eye care, dental, life, and disability insurance; paid sickdays and personal days; a choice of IPERS or TIAA retirement plans, and avariety of additional optional benefits.
REQUIREDQUALIFICATIONS: Associate degree or diploma in Industrial Automation,Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical/Electronic Technology, Automation &Controls, or a closely related field with at least 3,000 hours of relevant,recent work experience in automation, controls, robotics, electrical systems,or related advanced manufacturing environments. In the absence of a degree ordiploma, the candidate must have a minimum of 6,000 hours of relevant, recentwork experience in automation, controls, robotics, electrical systems, orrelated advanced manufacturing environments.
PREFERREDQUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor's degree in Automation, Robotics, Mechatronics,Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology, or closely related technicalfield. Degrees aligned to Iowa community college program pathways, such asRobotics & Control Systems or Industrial Automation, are preferred.Previous collegiate teaching experience, including demonstrated effectivenessin student engagement, curriculum development, and assessment of learningoutcomes with a commitment to the comprehensive community college philosophyalso preferred.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES:
โ€ข Teaching & Program Development - Plan, deliver, and assess instruction across various formats (in-person, online, hybrid, and off-campus). Develop and update curricula, select textbooks, track assessment data, and ensure alignment with industry standards. Engage in continuous professional development and participate in institutional committees.
โ€ข Student Engagement & Support - Maintain regular office hours and provide academic support to students in person or online. Create a supportive learning environment and promote student success through clear communication and effective instructional strategies.
โ€ข Program Promotion & Outreach - Actively participate in student recruitment and retention efforts, contribute to marketing initiatives, and cultivate relationships with industry partners, high schools, and the community.
โ€ข Professionalism & Communication - Maintain strong organizational skills, demonstrate reliability, and communicate effectively with students, faculty, and staff. Fulfill other responsibilities as assigned by Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
โ€ข Lab and Equipment Management - Oversee the Industrial Automation & Robotics lab, ensuring a safe, organized, and effective environment for hands-on instruction. Maintain tools, equipment, and materials, and coordinate with support staff or students assisting in lab activities.
โ€ข Physical & Travel Requirements - Work in indoor/outdoor settings, operate equipment as needed, and travel for outreach, recruitment, and off-campus instruction.
Perform in a manner which strengthens the coordination and cooperation of all organizational components of the College, including opportunities for student recruitment.
NIACC Core Principles: All employees are expected to adhere to all NIACC policies and procedures, including the faculty agreement. NIACC administration, faculty, and staff value a positive working environment and an environment of mutual respect; therefore, all employees are to maintain a positive attitude and respect for others when working with all NIACC departments, employees, students, partners, and the public.
Applicants for this position must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. NIACC is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.
01/2026