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Automation Engineering Manager Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Manager of Automation Engineering is a first-line technical leader responsible for overseeing the automation engineering team and ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant operation of control ...

Job Overview The Manager of Automation Engineering is a first-line technical leader responsible for overseeing the automation engineering team and ensuring reliable, efficient, and compliant ...

Senior Automation Engineer

Bondurant, IA

$104K - $136K/yr

Govern all automation documentation and change management processes for the site. * Collaborate with operations, engineering, and support teams tooptimizematerial handling systems and deliver ...

Possess ability to skillfully manage multiple projects simultaneously and succeed in an environment ... or Automation Engineering is preferred * Experience with distributed control systems; Emerson ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

They manage the electrical and programming tasks of automation projects to conform with safety and quality standards as well as product specifications. A successful candidate is someone who works ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $134K/yr

Manage medium to large projects. * Lead, coach, mentor, train and delegate tasks to Automation Technicians and Automation Engineers * Assist with Tier III Business Development Pursuits. * Assist with ...

Sr. Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Manage medium to large projects. * Lead, coach, mentor, train and delegate tasks to Automation Technicians and Automation Engineers * Assist with Tier III Business Development Pursuits. * Assist with ...

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Manage medium to large projects. * Lead, coach, mentor, train and delegate tasks to Automation Technicians and Automation Engineers * Assist with Tier III Business Development Pursuits. * Assist with ...

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Automation Engineering Manager information

See Iowa salary details

$84.5K

$129.7K

$163K

How much do automation engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation engineering manager in Iowa is $129,668.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,400.00 and $150,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Automation Engineering Manager do?

An Automation Engineering Manager oversees the design, implementation, and optimization of automated systems in manufacturing or software development. They lead a team of engineers to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance productivity through automation technologies. Responsibilities include project management, system integration, troubleshooting, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. They collaborate with other departments to align automation strategies with company goals. Strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and problem-solving abilities are essential for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Automation Engineering Manager position, and why are they important?

An Automation Engineering Manager should have a strong background in automation technologies, process improvement, project management, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC/SCADA systems, robotics, industrial control systems, and certifications such as PMP or Six Sigma is often required. Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help drive team performance and foster cross-functional collaboration. These capabilities are essential for delivering efficient automation solutions, ensuring project success, and guiding multidisciplinary teams in fast-paced environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by Automation Engineering Managers in their day-to-day work?

Automation Engineering Managers often balance multiple projects and deadlines while ensuring high quality and compliance with industry standards. A common challenge is integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, which requires careful planning and troubleshooting. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including operations, IT, and maintenance—is crucial for aligning technical solutions with business goals. Additionally, staying current with emerging automation trends and training team members on new tools is a key part of the role, helping drive continuous improvement and operational efficiency.

What are popular job titles related to Automation Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa? For Automation Engineering Manager jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Automation Engineering Manager jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Automation Engineering Manager job openings:
Manager of Automation Engineering

Manager of Automation Engineering

Kelly Services

Charles City, IA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 19 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.