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Automation Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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

Controls Engineer

Iowa City, IA · On-site +1

$81.70K - $105.70K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design ...

Controls Engineer

Marion, IA · On-site +1

$83.20K - $107.70K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$81.70K - $105.70K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site +1

$81.70K - $105.70K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$81.70K - $105.70K/yr

... n and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals ... We are seeking a Controls Engineer who will be part of a growing business to support the design ...

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 ...

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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 May 31, 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 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 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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 78% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,223 per year, or $44.3 per hour.
Programming & Test Engineer

Programming & Test Engineer

Three Point Solutions

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$30 - $34/hr

Contractor

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title:         Programming & Test Engineer

Client:              Heavy Machine Manufacturing Company
Location:         Dubuque, IA 52001
Duration:         17 Months (Possibility of Extension & Conversion)
Shift:                1st Shift

Job Summary

Programming & Test Engineer responsible for supporting factory automation, controls engineering, electrical systems, testing integration, and manufacturing process improvements within a production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support factory automation and controls engineering activities
• Integrate testing hardware and software into production systems
• Support PLC programming, electrical controls, and test systems
• Analyze CAN logs to troubleshoot machine issues
• Support industrial networking and device connectivity systems
• Assist with engineering testing, tooling, and test stand development
• Coordinate with suppliers and technical teams
• Support product development and project activities
• Implement process improvements and engineering solutions

Core Duties

• Factory automation support
• Controls and electrical systems engineering
• Engineering testing and troubleshooting
• Industrial networking and connectivity support
• Tooling and test stand development

Work Environment / Role Nature

• Onsite manufacturing and engineering environment
• Cross-functional collaboration with engineering and production teams
• Fast-paced automation and testing support role
• Project-based engineering support activities

Required Skills

• Controls and electrical systems expertise
• Testing hardware/software integration experience
• CAN log analysis and troubleshooting skills
• Industrial networking knowledge (OPC, OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, RFID)
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Engineering testing and automation support experience
• Ability to develop innovative technical solutions

Preferred Skills

• Experience with Construction & Forestry vehicle systems – Preferred
• Custom tooling and test stand design experience – Preferred
• Electrical or Electronic Engineering background – Preferred
• Experience delivering new technology into production – Preferred

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree or Equivalent Level
• Electrical, Electronic, Controls, or related Engineering background preferred

Work Experience

• 3+ years integrating testing hardware/software in production environments
• 3+ years of controls and electrical systems experience
• 2+ years analyzing CAN logs and troubleshooting machine systems
• 2+ years with industrial networking and device connectivity systems
• Experience supporting automation and engineering testing environments preferred

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