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Automation Developer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Archer Daniels Midland

Process Automation Engineer - Cedar Rapids, IA This is a full time, exempt position The Process Automation Engineer will provide support for the industrial control systems across the ADM Cedar Rapids ...

Baker Group

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98.70K - $129.50K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior Automation Engineer provides technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and ...

Archer Daniels Midland

Process Automation Engineer - Cedar Rapids, IA This is a full time, exempt position The Process Automation Engineer will provide support for the industrial control systems across the ADM Cedar Rapids ...

Baker Group

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102.20K - $134.10K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior Automation Engineer provides technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept for existing and new customers. Performs ...

Danaher

Software Automation Internships

Clinton, IA

About Automation Engineering Roles at Danaher Are you energized by solving technical problems, building automation systems, and making a real impact in the life sciences space? As an Automation ...

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Automation Developer information

See Iowa salary details

$9

$48

$76

How much do automation developer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for automation developer in Iowa is $48.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.93 and $56.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Automation Developer, you need strong programming skills (such as Python, Java, or C#), a solid understanding of automation frameworks, and often a degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with tools like Selenium, Jenkins, Docker, and relevant certifications (e.g., ISTQB Test Automation Engineer) are typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for troubleshooting and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating efficient, reliable automation solutions that enhance productivity and software quality.

How does an Automation Developer typically collaborate with other teams, such as QA and operations, during a project?

Automation Developers frequently work closely with QA teams to understand testing requirements, design automation scripts, and ensure seamless integration with existing test frameworks. They also interact with operations and DevOps teams to deploy, monitor, and maintain automation solutions within the production environment. Effective communication and collaboration are essential, as these teams rely on the Automation Developer to ensure that automated processes align with business needs and technical constraints.

What are Automation Developers?

Automation Developers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software solutions to automate repetitive or complex tasks within a business process. They use programming languages, automation tools, and frameworks to streamline operations, reduce manual intervention, and increase efficiency. Automation Developers often collaborate with other IT and business teams to identify automation opportunities, create workflows, and maintain automated systems. Their work spans various industries, including manufacturing, finance, and information technology.

What is the difference between Automation Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectAutomation DeveloperSoftware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field, certifications in automation toolsBachelor's in CS or related field, programming certifications
Work EnvironmentFocus on automation tools, scripting, testing environmentsDeveloping software applications, coding, system design
Employer & Industry UsageIT, manufacturing, software testing companiesTech companies, software firms, startups
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for automation roles, testing, and scripting tasksBroader software development roles, coding focus

The Automation Developer primarily focuses on creating and maintaining automation scripts and tools to streamline processes, often working closely with testing and QA teams. In contrast, a Software Engineer develops full software applications, involving system design, coding, and deployment. While both roles require programming skills and a background in computer science, Automation Developers specialize in automation frameworks, whereas Software Engineers have a broader scope in software development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Developer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Automation Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Developer jobs in Iowa? For Automation Developer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Developer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Developer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Automation Developer jobs in IA? For Automation Developer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Automation Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Developer 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 59% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,734 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Project Engineer - Level 1 Automation

SSAB

Montpelier, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

SSAB rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job Description
Position Purpose
The Automation Engineer is responsible for a wide range of software and process engineering activities that support safe, reliable, and efficient plant operations. This role focuses on analyzing process performance, identifying and prioritizing improvement opportunities, and designing and implementing effective solutions to enhance productivity, quality, and system reliability. Key responsibilities include developing and modifying control strategies, optimizing automation systems, and leading the execution of process improvements from concept through commissioning. The Automation Engineer also maintains and supports all Level 1 and Level 1.5 hardware and control platforms, ensuring their integrity, availability, and performance.
Essential Responsibilities
Process & Automation Engineering
  • Develop and implement methods and best practices to improve product quality, expand product capabilities, and reduce manufacturing costs through the effective use of advanced automation technologies.
  • Design, develop, and manage Level 1 process control systems and related engineering projects to optimize production efficiency, improve yield, and enhance overall product quality.
  • Analyze process performance using data-driven approaches, identify improvement opportunities, and implement sustainable solutions to drive continuous improvement.

Technical Support & Troubleshooting
  • Provide advanced troubleshooting, technical guidance, and hands-on support to Maintenance and Operations teams, including Level 1.5 EMO (Engineering Maintenance Operator) personnel within the Rolling Mill.
  • Maintain, support, and continuously improve all Level 1 electrical and control systems to ensure high reliability, performance, and compliance with applicable industrial standards.
  • Deliver specialized technical support for process control systems and software across the Rolling Mill and Finishing Area, ensuring stable and efficient operation.

Supervisory Computer Systems Management (Level 1 & Level 1.5)
Hardware Management
  • Perform preventive and time-based maintenance on automation and control system hardware to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
  • Identify, evaluate, and replace obsolete or failing field components to maintain system integrity and minimize downtime.
  • Manage and maintain I/O interface cabling and associated hardware to ensure accurate and reliable signal transmission.
  • Monitor system performance, including diagnostics, fault detection, and recovery, to support continuous and stable operations.

Software Management
  • Monitor automation and control applications to ensure accurate, stable, and efficient operation across all platforms.
  • Manage and maintain system backups, including administration of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre server, to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.
  • Analyze, diagnose, and troubleshoot operating systems and application software to resolve issues and minimize downtime.
  • Perform maintenance programming and configure system and application software to support ongoing operations and continuous improvement initiatives.

Interface Management
  • Plan, design, develop, implement, and maintain HMI applications to support safe, efficient, and user-friendly operation of process equipment.
  • Collaborate with Operations and Maintenance teams to ensure interfaces are intuitive, standardized, and aligned with operational needs.
  • Maintain and enhance HMI standards, including graphics, alarms, and navigation, to ensure consistency and effectiveness across systems.
  • Troubleshoot and optimize HMI performance to ensure reliability, responsiveness, and accurate real-time data visualization.

Documentation Management
  • Develop, organize, and maintain accurate technical documentation, including system configurations, historical records, and change logs.
  • Create and update user guides, operating procedures, and "help" documentation to support Operations and Maintenance teams.
  • Analyze and reverse-engineer existing systems, when required, to reconstruct and document software specifications and functionality.

Operations Support
  • Respond to operator requests and provide timely resolution of automation and control system issues to support continuous operations.
  • Provide 24/7 on-call support for critical systems, ensuring rapid response and minimal disruption to production.
  • Train and support Electrical EMO (Engineering Maintenance Operator) personnel on new software, system updates, and control system enhancements.

Specialized Equipment & Systems Support
  • Provide expert-level technical support, troubleshooting, and hands-on assistance for critical process and automation systems, ensuring compliance with design specifications and applicable industrial standards.
  • Support and maintain process control systems for the Reheat Furnace, Rolling Mill, and Finishing areas to ensure reliable and efficient operation.
  • Maintain and troubleshoot electrical and automation systems, with a strong focus on Allen-Bradley platforms and associated hardware.
  • Support and integrate specialized human-machine interfaces (HMI), business system networks, and supplier system connections to ensure seamless data flow and system interoperability.

Education, Experience, and Competencies
Required
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and technical experience.
  • Minimum of five (5) years of experience working with ControlLogix and other Rockwell Automation platforms
  • Strong understanding of process interactions between control systems and physical processes within a steel plate manufacturing environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to apply sound engineering and economic judgment in process control decision-making
  • In-depth knowledge of industrial automation systems, including control system hardware, industrial computers, multitasking operating systems, real-time communication networks, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs), with the ability to integrate these into effective process control solutions.
  • Proficiency in ControlLogix and FactoryTalk View programming environments.
  • Solid understanding of mathematical principles supporting closed-loop, real-time control systems
  • Strong problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and manage multiple priorities effectively
  • Regular and reliable attendance

Preferred
  • Previous experience troubleshooting industrial electrical and electronic systems in a heavy industrial or manufacturing environment.
  • Formal training in computer hardware, software systems, or related disciplines.
  • Strong computer skills, including database management, networking concepts, and experience with software development languages or industrial software suites.
  • Proficiency in programming, configuring, and tuning AC and DC digital drive systems.
  • Solid understanding of DC motor theory, operation, and control principles.
  • Knowledge of mill stand control systems and winder applications within a steel manufacturing environment.

Supervisory Responsibilities/Direct Reports
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities and has no direct reports.
Work Environment and Physical Demands
The employee will frequently be required to:
  • Twist at the waist and reach above shoulder level, as well as at or below waist level.
  • Handle, grip, hold, and grasp objects using one or both hands.
  • Finger and feel objects with one or both hands, including the ability to sense temperature and texture

The employee will occasionally be required to:
  • Drive or travel by automobile or airplane as part of job responsibilities.
  • Balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb as required in industrial environment.
  • Push, pull, lift, and/or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.

The position requires the following vision and hearing capabilities:
  • Talking person to person, on the phone, and/or in group settings
  • Hearing in person, on the phone, and/or in group settings
  • Vision at near, mid, and far range
  • Peripheral vision and depth perception

The employee will be required to sit, stand, and/or walk as follows:
  • Sitting 0-8 hours at a time; average 5 hours a day
  • Standing 0-8 hours at a time; average 2 hours a day
  • Walking 0-8 hours at a time; average 1 hour
  • Alternate sitting and standing as needed

The employee will be required to use the following machines or tools:
  • Desktop computer
  • Control software
  • Multimeter
  • Database

The employee will work in the following conditions:
  • Indoors
  • In extreme heat and extreme cold
  • In wet and humid conditions
  • Amid fumes, dust, dirt, and smoke
  • In confined areas and high places
  • Around equipment in motion
  • Amid noise
  • Amid mechanical, electrical, and chemical hazards
  • Around industrial magnets
  • While wearing safety equipment and/or clothing for protection from hazards

Position Type, Work Hours, and Travel Requirements
  • Position is full time, exempt
  • Position works day shift, Monday through Friday - additional overtime as needed
  • Office presence required
  • Travel for this position is limited

Other Duties
This job description is not intended to provide an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or activities required for this position. Additional tasks may be assigned, and responsibilities may be modified at any time, with or without prior notice, to meet operational needs.
SSAB BENEFITS - starting at hire!
• Excellent Pay with Additional Bonus
• Very Affordable Health Insurance
üBlue Cross/Blue Shield Medical
ü CVS/Caremark Prescription
ü Delta Dental
ü Superior Vision
• 401(k) with Employer Match - 5%
• Profit Sharing
• 10 Paid Holidays
• Vacation
• Company Paid Life Insurance - and STD and LTD*
• Optional Life, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Assistance Program
SSAB's vision is a stronger, lighter and more sustainable world.
SSAB's values form the guiding principals of our company.
They shape our culture and characteristics. They serve as a compass for our actions and behavior, and describe what we stand for. Values guide us daily in making the right choices and doing the right things.
SSAB's values are:
  • Driven - Together we create value
  • True - Do what is right
  • Ahead - Future in mind

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