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Automation Controls Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

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 ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

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 ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

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 ...

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 ... Requires at least two years of experience managing multiple projects. Requires at least three years ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA

$67K - $87K/yr

THE COMPANY Invio Automation is an Industry 4.0 automation leader that serves a variety of high ... Requires at least two years of experience managing multiple projects. Requires at least three years ...

United Fire Group

AVP - Internal Controls

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$180K - $220K/yr

Evaluate controls and processes for opportunities to leverage automation and new technologies, reducing manual effort and improving control effectiveness. * Partner with management to provide value ...

Amazon

Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

... proactive controls automation and technical support. Your expertise will be essential in ... managers, operations staff and maintenance teams - Move up to 49lbs as well as stand and walk ...

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Automation Controls Manager information

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

To thrive as an Automation Controls Manager, you need expertise in control systems engineering, PLC programming, industrial automation, and typically a bachelor’s degree in electrical or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with SCADA systems, HMI software, industry-standard PLCs (such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens), and relevant certifications like ISA CAP are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills help manage teams and facilitate cross-departmental collaboration. These competencies ensure the reliable design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems that drive operational efficiency and safety.

How much do spacex automation controls engineers make?

Automation Controls Engineers at SpaceX typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience and location. These roles often require proficiency in PLC programming, control systems, and relevant certifications, with some positions offering additional bonuses or benefits.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Engineering roles such as senior petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain software engineering positions can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-paying engineering jobs often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities in specialized industries.

What are Automation Controls Managers?

Automation Controls Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing the design, implementation, and maintenance of automated control systems within manufacturing or industrial environments. They manage teams of engineers and technicians, ensure that control systems operate efficiently and safely, and coordinate improvements to increase productivity. Typically, they also work on troubleshooting and upgrading control hardware and software, while ensuring compliance with industry standards. Their role is crucial in optimizing automated processes and minimizing downtime.

What is the role of an automation manager?

An Automation Controls Manager oversees the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems within an organization. They coordinate with engineering teams, ensure systems operate efficiently, and often require knowledge of PLCs, SCADA, or other control software. The role involves managing projects, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing automation processes to improve productivity and safety.

What are some common challenges faced by Automation Controls Managers when overseeing multidisciplinary teams?

Automation Controls Managers often coordinate between engineering, IT, and operations departments, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Managing projects that involve both hardware and software components requires strong organizational skills and the ability to translate technical requirements across disciplines. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving automation technologies while ensuring team members receive proper training is a key aspect of the role. Successful managers foster collaboration by promoting open communication and cross-functional problem-solving.

What is the difference between Automation Controls Manager vs Automation Technician?

AspectAutomation Controls ManagerAutomation Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field, certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP)Associate degree or technical diploma, certifications like Siemens or Allen-Bradley technical certifications
Work EnvironmentOversees automation projects, manages teams, coordinates with engineering and managementPerforms hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of automation systems
Industry UsageUsed in manufacturing, industrial facilities, and large-scale automation settingsCommon in factories, plants, and maintenance departments

The Automation Controls Manager focuses on overseeing automation projects and managing teams, requiring higher-level credentials and strategic responsibilities. In contrast, the Automation Technician handles the technical installation and maintenance tasks. Both roles are essential in automation environments but differ in scope and seniority.

How much do automation managers make in the US?

Automation Controls Managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000 in the US, depending on experience, industry, and location. They often require knowledge of PLCs, SCADA systems, and automation software, with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) enhancing earning potential.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Controls Manager jobs in Iowa? For Automation Controls Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Controls Manager jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Controls Manager jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Controls Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Controls Manager job openings:
Automation Controls Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Controls Manager job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Hydrite

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Hydrite Chemical rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

75th 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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