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Automation Engineer Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls /Automation Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, automation, Controls Automation, mechatronics, or ... Experience in Project Management. * Experience in the implementation of standards and/or strategic ...

Work with project managers, engineering team and mechanical design engineers to develop sequence of operations for equipment. * Re-estimate projects based upon engineered control submittals.

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI ... Excellent debugging skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously * High level ...

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI ... Excellent debugging skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously * High level ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Iowa City, IA · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI ... Excellent debugging skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously * High level ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Sioux City, IA · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI ... Excellent debugging skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously * High level ...

AI Automation Engineer -Remote

Waterloo, IA · On-site +1

$202K - $234K/yr

About the Team and Role: We're hiring our first AI Automation Engineer to lead how we apply AI ... Excellent debugging skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously * High level ...

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Automation Engineer Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$100.6K

$153.1K

How much do automation engineer manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer manager in Iowa is $100,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,200.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Automation Engineer Managers face when leading automation projects?

Automation Engineer Managers often encounter challenges such as aligning project goals with business objectives, managing cross-functional teams with varying technical backgrounds, and ensuring clear communication between stakeholders. Balancing the need for innovative automation solutions with budget constraints and tight deadlines is also a frequent hurdle. Successful managers proactively address these challenges by fostering collaboration, setting clear expectations, and continuously monitoring project progress to adapt as needed.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer Manager, you need a solid background in automation engineering principles, project management, and leadership, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, robotics, industrial control software, and certifications like PMP or Six Sigma is highly valuable. Outstanding communication, problem-solving, and team-building abilities help drive project success and foster effective collaboration across departments. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering efficient automation solutions, ensuring project quality, and leading high-performing engineering teams.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer Manager vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation Engineer ManagerAutomation Engineer
ResponsibilitiesOversees automation projects, manages teams, and aligns automation strategies with business goals.Designs, develops, and implements automation solutions; focuses on technical tasks.
Required SkillsLeadership, project management, automation tools, programming, and system integration.Technical skills in automation tools, scripting, and software development.
CertificationsOften includes certifications like PMP, automation-specific certifications, or management credentials.Certifications in automation tools, programming, or industry standards.
Work EnvironmentTypically in managerial settings, coordinating teams and projects.Hands-on technical work in labs, manufacturing, or software environments.

The Automation Engineer Manager focuses on leading automation teams and strategic planning, while the Automation Engineer concentrates on technical development and implementation. Both roles require technical skills, but the manager also needs leadership and project management expertise.

What does an Automation Engineer Manager do?

An Automation Engineer Manager oversees teams responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining automated systems within an organization. They coordinate projects, manage resources, and ensure that automation initiatives align with business goals. Their role involves both technical leadership—such as guiding the selection of automation tools and methodologies—and managerial duties, including training, performance evaluations, and cross-department collaboration. Ultimately, they work to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve process reliability through effective automation strategies.
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Engineer Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Engineer Manager job openings:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer Manager job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,620 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

Software Test Automation Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking a growth-oriented entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Software Test Automation Engineer

The Software Test Automation Engineer plays a key role in validating the electrical and software systems that control vehicle functionality and operation. This position focuses on developing and executing automated and manual test strategies, maintaining and improving test scripts, and ensuring software quality through rigorous regression, hardware, and machine-level testing. The role collaborates closely with cross-functional engineering teams to support timely product releases and may provide field support for complex issue resolution.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and execute detailed test plans for direct application testing, remote testing, and full/partial machine evaluations.

  • Create and manage hardware-focused test plans, including operating systems, electronic diagnostic tools, and specialized harnesses.

  • Build and deliver comprehensive regression test plans to ensure software stability across releases.

  • Perform software validation through live machine testing, simulation environments, and remote assessment tools.

  • Maintain, refine, and expand existing automated test scripts to increase test coverage and efficiency.

  • Participate in tactical project meetings, providing clear updates on test progress, issues, and risk areas.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support timely content releases aligned with key product delivery milestones.

  • Travel as needed to field locations to diagnose complex issues and support product, marketing, and quality teams during critical testing activities.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s of Science degree in Engineering or Computer Science.

  • Ability to interpret software requirements, state diagrams, and test plan documentation.

  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers.

  • Ability to operate machinery or heavy equipment during testing.

  • Must have a valid driver’s license.

Desired Attributes

  • Experience with QML/QT frameworks within Squish test environments.

  • Extensive Linux/UNIX experience, including debugging and development.

  • Proficiency in Python, especially for backend automation with Squish and ECU-TEST.

  • Prior software development and testing experience
  • General machine knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude.
  • A strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position

Pay Range: $65,000-$110,000 – Commensurate with experience.

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

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