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Automation Direct Plc Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

Requires at least three years of PLC programming experience. Siemens and Allen Bradley knowledge preferred. INVIO AUTOMATION'S CORE VALUES * We take pride in the reliability of our team and the ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA

$67K - $87K/yr

Requires at least three years of PLC programming experience. Siemens and Allen Bradley knowledge preferred. INVIO AUTOMATION'S CORE VALUES * We take pride in the reliability of our team and the ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Baker Group

Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components • Understand ... programming • Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs • Ability to lead ...

Tenneco

Electrical Controls Engineer

Burlington, IA

$90K - $100K/yr

PLC Troubleshooting Skills * Electrical Schematics * Industrial Robot Programming * Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment * PLC Programming Experience * SCADA Experience * Industrial and ...

Tenneco

Electrical Controls Engineer

Burlington, IA

$43.27 - $48.08/hr

PLC Troubleshooting Skills * Electrical Schematics * Industrial Robot Programming * Troubleshooting Industrial Automation Equipment * PLC Programming Experience * SCADA Experience * Industrial and ...

Van Meter

Automation Support Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

Allen Bradley / Rockwell Automation PLC / HMI programming experience * Flexibility of schedule to meet customers onsite service needs * Passion for providing high quality and thorough technical ...

Rinvio

Electrical Automation Manager

Cedar Rapids, IA

$52 - $65/hr

... PLC/HMI support, equipment reliability, and project priorities - Work with maintenance technicians ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

Baker Group

Systems Engineer - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

PURPOSE The Systems Engineer-Automation will work with the engineering and leadership teams to ... Designing and developing distributed control systems (DCS) including PLC/HMI/SCADA programs ...

Rinvio

Electrical Automation Manager

Iowa City, IA

$52 - $65/hr

... PLC/HMI support, equipment reliability, and project priorities - Work with maintenance technicians ... operations, engineering, vendors, and leadership - Support plant safety, uptime, documentation ...

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All JobsAutomation Direct Plc Programmer JobsAutomation Direct Plc Programmer Jobs in Iowa

Automation Direct Plc Programmer information

See Iowa salary details

$38K

$75.8K

$105.2K

How much do automation direct plc programmer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation direct plc programmer in Iowa is $75,765.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,900.00 and $86,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Automation Direct Plc Programmer vs PLC Technician?

AspectAutomation Direct Plc ProgrammerPLC Technician
CredentialsTypically requires programming certifications and knowledge of PLC softwareUsually holds technical diplomas or certifications in PLC maintenance
Work EnvironmentPrimarily involved in programming, testing, and software developmentFocuses on installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of PLC systems
Industry UsageUsed in automation, manufacturing, and control system designCommon in industrial maintenance and repair roles

Automation Direct Plc Programmers focus on developing and implementing PLC software, while PLC Technicians handle installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of PLC hardware. Both roles are essential in automation industries but differ in their primary responsibilities and skill sets.

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

To thrive as an Automation Direct PLC Programmer, you need a solid understanding of electrical engineering, control systems, and proficiency in programming PLCs, often supported by a relevant technical degree or certification. Familiarity with Automation Direct software platforms, ladder logic programming, and industrial communication protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot system issues. These skills ensure reliable automation solutions, minimize downtime, and optimize manufacturing processes in industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Automation Direct PLC Programmers when integrating new equipment into existing systems?

Automation Direct PLC Programmers often encounter challenges when integrating new equipment, such as ensuring compatibility between different hardware and software versions, adapting to varying communication protocols, and minimizing system downtime during installation. Troubleshooting unexpected issues and thoroughly testing new code within live production environments require both technical expertise and careful planning. Close collaboration with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams is essential to ensure seamless integration and ongoing system reliability.

What is an Automation Direct PLC Programmer?

An Automation Direct PLC Programmer is a professional who specializes in programming, configuring, and troubleshooting Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) manufactured by AutomationDirect. These PLCs are used to automate machinery and industrial processes in a variety of industries, such as manufacturing, energy, and material handling. The programmer uses software tools like DirectSOFT or Do-more Designer to create custom logic programs that control equipment based on specific operational requirements. Their work ensures systems run efficiently, safely, and reliably.
What are popular job titles related to Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Iowa? For Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Direct Plc Programmer job openings:
Automation Direct Plc Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Direct Plc Programmer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $75,765 per year, or $36.4 per hour.
Manager of Automation Engineering

Manager of Automation Engineering

Kelly Services

Charles City, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Kelly Engineering is partnering with an industry-leading organization in Charles City, Iowa, to present an exceptional direct hire opportunity for a Manager of Automation Engineering. This dynamic role offers outstanding potential for professional growth, a highly competitive compensation package including relocation assistance and performance bonuses and the chance to work within a supportive, collaborative team environment.
The Manager of Automation Engineering is a first-line/hands on technical leader responsible for overseeing the automation engineering team and ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of control systems across the site.
What you will do:
  • Manages automation resources, develops team capability, and personally leads to high-impact automation projects or system upgrades.
  • Directly supervise and mentor a team of 3-8 Automation Engineers, Technicians, and/or Controls Specialists.  
  • Provide hands-on design, programming, configuration, and commissioning support for PLC, HMI, SCADA, and DCS systems
  • Lead the automation roadmap for the site including system modernization, digital transformation, and process optimization initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities for automation or advanced controls to improve efficiency, reduce risk, and enhance product quality
  • Ensure all automation work adheres to GMP, GAMP 5, OSHA, and other relevant regulatory standards.

Qualification:
  • Strong hands on expertise in control system design, PLC/HMI programming (Allen-Bradley, Siemens) and network communications
  • Experience in a regulated manufacturing environment (pharmaceutical, biotech, or chemical) strongly preferred.
  • 2+ years in a supervisory or lead role

What happens next:
Once you apply, you’ll proceed to next steps if your skills and experience look like a good fit. But don’t worry – even if this position doesn’t work out, you’re still in the Kelly Engineering network. That means our team of expert engineering recruiters will have access to your profile, making your opportunities limitless
As part of our promise to talent, Kelly supports those who work with us through a variety of benefits, perks, and work-related resources. Kelly offers eligible employees voluntary benefit plans including medical, dental, vision, telemedicine, term life, whole life, accident insurance, critical illness, a legal plan, and short-term disability. As a Kelly employee, you will have access to a retirement savings plan, service bonus and holiday pay plans (earn up to eight paid holidays per benefit year), and a transit spending account. In addition, employees are entitled to earn paid sick leave under the applicable state or local plan. Click here for more information on benefits and perks that may be available to you as a member of the Kelly Talent Community.

Why Kelly® Engineering?

Your engineering skills are in demand, but how do you find the right fit? Easy. At Kelly Engineering, our team creates expert talent solutions to solve the world’s most critical challenges. We connect you with leading organizations where you can collaborate on innovative projects, work with cutting-edge technologies and accelerate your growth. Whether you prefer the variety and flexibility of short-term projects or are looking for a long-term opportunity, we’re here to guide you to the next step in your engineering career.

About Kelly

Work changes everything. And at Kelly, we’re obsessed with where it can take you. To us, it’s about more than simply accepting your next job opportunity. It’s the fuel that powers every next step of your life. It’s the ripple effect that changes and improves everything for your family, your community, and the world. Which is why, here at Kelly, we are dedicated to providing you with limitless opportunities to enrich your life-just ask the 300,000 people we employ each year.
Kelly is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants regardless of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status, and we take affirmative action to recruit, employ, and advance qualified individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in the workforce. Requests for accommodation related to our application process can be directed to the Kelly Human Resource Knowledge Center. Kelly complies with the requirements of California’s state and local Fair Chance laws. A conviction does not automatically bar individuals from employment. Kelly participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
Kelly may use AI-powered tools during the recruitment and hiring process. For full details, including how Kelly uses AI, your rights, and how to request a reasonable accommodation, visit the Recruitment Artificial Intelligence Notice.

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