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Automation Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Sr. 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 ...

Sr. 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Automation Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$34.8K

$100.6K

$153.1K

How much do automation engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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 Automation Engineers?

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 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.

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:
Infographic showing various Automation Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 85% Full Time, 9% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,620 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
Automation Engineer

Automation Engineer

Baker Group

Davenport, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

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 related work as required.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be constructed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Work collaboratively with design engineers, operation engineers, and purchasers and other internal staff

• Start-up of Microprocessor based control components including PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components

• Understand construction schedules and manage QA/QC checklists and commissioning logs

• Ability to interpret Sequence of Operations (SOO) and apply to program logic

• Ability to read and write code ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming

• Mentor, training, and oversee Automation Technician I and IIs

• Ability to lead medium to large size projects

• Point-to-point checkout of wiring and components for proper grounding, polarity, communication and power

• Set up and calibration of input and output devices such as temperature sensors, pressure transducers, etc.

• Uploading, downloading, and modification of control software and programs

• Perform networking functions such as setting up IP addresses, subnet masks, MAC addresses and instance numbers

• Create and troubleshoot automation networks and communication protocols.

• Identify and troubleshoot complex Automation HVAC and Electrical systems including but not limited to psychometrics, refrigeration, building pressure controls, life safety systems, EPMS, process controls, steam heating, humidification and de-humidification, and central heating and cooling systems.

• Map control points into supervisory controller and add alarms and history extensions to supervisory controller points

• Map control points into graphical front end and link points to graphics

• Create Automation System graphics and dashboards


MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Four (4) to Seven (7) years of Automation related field experience

• Associate degree in Electronic, Technology, or Automation related field or equivalent on the job experience


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• Valid driver’s license


MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Ability to perform all necessary duties unsupervised

• Knowledge of common Windows Office applications

• Knowledge of Microsoft SQL or other database applications preferred but not required

• Knowledge of Ethernet and serial network communication protocols and hardware configurations

• Understanding of basic process controls (i.e. PID control loops, motor control, commissioning of digital and analog measurement devices)

• Excellent interpersonal skills with ability to communicate effectively, both orally and written

• Ability to take direction and full fill commitments

• Value and support company mission and culture

• Display honesty, integrity, sound reasoning, good judgment/values, and lead by example, all while maintaining strong internal and external relationships at all levels

• Understanding of construction site safety and display a high awareness of your surroundings

• Effectively prioritize and balance the “big picture” and immediate responsibilities

• Ability to listen effectively, value the opinions of others and acknowledge contributions of others

• Ability to communicate and work well with others specifically but not limited to our electrical team members and project management staff at all levels

• Effectively train, mentor, and delegate work tasks to lower-level Automation Technicians

• Ability to effectively work with your project team members to resolve issues promptly


ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY

At any given time, may be exposed to:

• Typical construction site and/or industrial site risks and environment


EQUIPMENT/TOOLS

• Laptop PC

• Electronic Multimeter

• Magnehelic

• RS-485 and RS-232 Serial Adapters

• Hand tools/Light power tools

• Product Manufacturer Software

• AutoCAD Electric

• PLC Software (Allen-Bradley RSLogix 500, StudioLogix5000, or Modicon)

• HMI Software (Wonderware or FactoryTalk View)

• DDC Software (Schneider Electric Eco Struxure, Alerton Compass, or Tridium Niagara)

• Ladders and Lifts

• Oscilloscope

• Wireshark

• Computer systems: Windows, Linux, Command Line


Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.