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Automation Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

AI Test Automation Engineer We are seeking multiple AI Test Automation Engineers to help transform and modernize software testing through the use of artificial intelligence, intelligent automation ...

trimark

Automation Engineer

New Hampton, IA · On-site

Nature and Scope The position reports to the Automation Manager, as does the Process Engineer (Assembly), and Assembly Technician. The incumbent must be the technical expert for assembly in areas ...

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

Industrial 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

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Automation Engineer provides technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Manufacturing Control Systems. Maintain and grow the "Client for Life" concept ...

Tenneco

Controls and Automation Engineer

Burlington, IA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Responsibilities include PLC programming and troubleshooting, HMI and control system development, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, electrical controls, equipment integration, and ...

Tenneco

Controls and Automation Engineer

Burlington, IA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Responsibilities include PLC programming and troubleshooting, HMI and control system development, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, electrical controls, equipment integration, and ...

Saigepartners

Project Engineer Automation

Muscatine, IA · On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Project Engineer - Automation (Muscatine, IA) Contact Hannah Wilson at hwilson@saigepartners.com , you can also schedule an appointment to learn more about this opportunity! Job Overview The Project ...

Tenneco

Controls and Automation Engineer

Burlington, IA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Responsibilities include PLC programming and troubleshooting, HMI and control system development, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, electrical controls, equipment integration, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsAutomation Engineer JobsAutomation Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Automation Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$100.6K

$153.1K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineer 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 is an automation engineer?

Automation Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement automated systems and processes to improve efficiency, quality, and productivity in various industries. They work with technologies such as robotics, control systems, and software to automate repetitive or complex tasks. Their responsibilities often include programming, troubleshooting, and maintaining automation equipment, as well as collaborating with other engineers to optimize workflows. Automation Engineers are employed in sectors like manufacturing, IT, automotive, and pharmaceuticals.

What does an automation engineer do?

As an automation engineer, your job is to design and develop automated machines for your company. Your responsibilities may include determining the best way to implement automation, creating devices that meet the company's needs and specifications, testing robots to ensure they perform as designed, and monitoring existing automation to check if repair or replacement is needed. Many duties of this job vary by industry. For example, automation engineers work in areas like the automotive industry, food preparation and packaging, electronics production, and appliance production, and each of these fields has different materials and objectives. However, regardless of industry, most automation engineers work with both hardware and software.

What are some common challenges automation engineers face when integrating new systems into existing workflows?

Automation Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new automation solutions with legacy systems, including compatibility issues and data migration complexities. Coordinating with cross-functional teams—such as IT, operations, and production—can require extensive communication to ensure seamless implementation. Additionally, balancing the need for system reliability with innovation and minimizing downtime during transitions are key concerns. Proactively addressing these challenges through thorough planning and testing helps ensure successful integration.

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

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong grasp of control systems, programming (such as PLC, Python, or C++), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with automation platforms like Rockwell, Siemens, or SCADA systems, as well as certifications like ISA or relevant vendor-specific credentials, is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with diverse teams and troubleshooting complex issues. These skills and qualifications are critical for designing efficient automated solutions, minimizing downtime, and ensuring seamless integration of systems.

What is the difference between Automation Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectAutomation EngineerControl Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like PLC or SCADABachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, industrial plants, automation companiesIndustrial facilities, manufacturing, process control environments
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, automation service providersIndustrial sectors, process industries, automation firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between Automation Engineers and Control Systems Engineers lies in their focus areas. Automation Engineers typically design and implement automated systems across various industries, emphasizing software and hardware integration. Control Systems Engineers concentrate on designing and maintaining control systems for industrial processes, often with a stronger emphasis on control theory and hardware. Both roles require similar qualifications and are often found working in manufacturing and industrial environments, but their specific responsibilities and focus areas differ.

More about Automation Engineer jobs

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 are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineer jobs in IA?

For Automation Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Automation Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,620 per year, or $48.4 per hour.

AI Test Automation Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.
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.
AI Test Automation Engineer
We are seeking multiple AI Test Automation Engineers to help transform and modernize software testing through the use of artificial intelligence, intelligent automation, and advanced data-driven tools. This team will focus on creating smarter, faster, and more scalable approaches to software validation by leveraging AI-assisted workflows, automation technologies, intelligent agents, and advanced analytics.
This role is ideal for engineers who enjoy solving complex problems, building innovative tools, and applying AI technologies to real-world engineering and operational challenges.
Job Responsibilities
  • Develop AI-assisted tools and workflows that improve software testing efficiency and productivity
  • Design and implement intelligent automation solutions for regression testing and validation activities
  • Create AI-enabled systems for anomaly detection, issue identification, and automated analysis
  • Build tools that assist with test planning, test execution, reporting, and diagnostics
  • Develop scripts, utilities, dashboards, and integrations that automate repetitive engineering tasks
  • Leverage machine learning, agentic AI, large language models, or intelligent agents to improve engineering workflows
  • Analyze testing data and system behavior to identify trends, inefficiencies, and optimization opportunities
  • Integrate automation tools with APIs, databases, cloud services, and existing engineering platforms
  • Collaborate with engineering, software, and test teams to understand pain points and develop scalable solutions
  • Rapidly prototype and evaluate proof-of-concept AI solutions
  • Contribute to long-term strategies focused on transforming software testing and engineering operations
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives focused on smarter and more autonomous testing processes

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • Experience with software development, automation, or engineering tool development
  • Experience programming in Python, JavaScript, C++, or similar languages
  • Strong understanding of automation concepts, scripting, and workflow optimization
  • Experience working with APIs, data processing, or systems integration
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with AI/ML technologies, large language models, or agentic AI systems
  • Experience building intelligent automation tools or AI-assisted workflows
  • Familiarity with machine learning frameworks, data analytics, or anomaly detection techniques
  • Experience with cloud platforms, databases, or distributed systems
  • Experience integrating with engineering or testing platforms
  • Familiarity with software testing, validation, or DevOps workflows
  • Experience with telemetry, logging, or real-time data analysis tools
  • Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
  • Experience using AI coding assistants or AI-enhanced development tools

Desired Attributes
  • Passion for AI, automation, and emerging technologies
  • Creative mindset focused on solving problems in new ways
  • Strong curiosity and willingness to experiment with new tools and approaches
  • Self-motivated with the ability to work independently on ambiguous challenges
  • Interest in transforming traditional engineering processes through intelligent automation
  • Ability to balance rapid innovation with practical engineering solutions

Pay Range: $90,000-$150,000 - 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
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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