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Automation Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

Automation Technician We are seeking an Automation Technician with a strong customer focus and proven technical expertise in maintenance functions. This role requires either a two-year degree in a ...

Automation Technician We are seeking an Automation Technician with a strong customer focus and proven technical expertise in maintenance functions. This role requires either a two-year degree in a ...

Whether diagnosing mechanical issues or supporting automation technologies, you prioritize inventory management, adhere to GMP and food safety protocols, and contribute to a strong food safety ...

Whether diagnosing mechanical issues or supporting automation technologies, you prioritize inventory management, adhere to GMP and food safety protocols, and contribute to a strong food safety ...

Whether diagnosing mechanical issues or supporting automation technologies, you prioritize inventory management, adhere to GMP and food safety protocols, and contribute to a strong food safety ...

Join us as an AI Enablement Strategist where you will be responsible for accelerating HODGE's adoption of artificial intelligence and process automation as enterprise capabilities. The role serves as ...

Join us as an AI Enablement Strategist where you will be responsible for accelerating HODGE's adoption of artificial intelligence and process automation as enterprise capabilities. The role serves as ...

The company was founded in 1856 and is committed to taking care of the customer - our boss, through our growing investments of education, automation, and innovation. A career at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co ...

Identify opportunities to improve, standardize, streamline, and automate colleague insight generation. Analyse current manual processes and recommend automation opportunities using Microsoft Viva ...

Millwright - 3rd Shift

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$23.75 - $31/hr

The company was founded in 1856 and is committed to taking care of the customer - our boss, through our growing investments of education, automation, and innovation. A career at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co ...

The company was founded in 1856 and is committed to taking care of the customer - our boss, through our growing investments of education, automation, and innovation. A career at A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co ...

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Automation information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$29.2K

$110K

$159.8K

How much do automation jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation in Dubuque, IA is $109,958.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,300.00 and $131,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is automation and what does an automation professional do?

Automation refers to the use of technology to perform tasks with minimal human intervention. Automation professionals design, develop, and maintain systems that automate processes in various industries, such as manufacturing, IT, and business operations. Their work often involves programming, configuring control systems, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring systems operate efficiently and safely. The goal is to improve productivity, reduce errors, and lower operational costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in an automation engineer role?

To thrive as an Automation Engineer, you need a strong foundation in programming, process control, and systems integration, often supported by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and scripting languages, as well as certifications such as ISA or Siemens, is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with cross-functional teams and troubleshooting complex systems. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing efficient automated processes, minimizing errors, and ensuring operational reliability.

What is the job outlook for careers in the automation industry?

Automation is a fast-growing field, and demand for people with advanced qualifications is high. Jobs in automation primarily fall into three categories: designing and building automated machines, maintaining these machines, and programming automation software. Many jobs in this field require a significant amount of industrial engineering or robotics experience. Fulfilling job responsibilities in this industry often requires engineering, math, and communication skills as well as familiarity with programming. Someone in this field may also need to be familiar with electrical systems, delivery pipelines, configuration management tools, networking, or databases to get a job in this industry.

What are some common challenges faced by automation professionals when integrating new technologies into existing systems?

Automation professionals often encounter challenges such as compatibility issues between legacy systems and new automation tools, ensuring minimal downtime during transitions, and maintaining data integrity. Additionally, coordinating with IT and operations teams is crucial to address security concerns and user training needs. Being proactive in communication and thorough in planning helps to streamline integration and minimize disruptions.

What is the difference between Automation vs Robotics Technician?

AspectAutomationRobotics Technician
CredentialsTypically requires certifications in PLC programming, control systems, or automation softwareRequires certifications or training in robotics, electronics, and mechanical systems
Work EnvironmentWorks in manufacturing, industrial plants, or automation system integrationWorks on robotic systems, maintenance, and troubleshooting in similar industrial settings
Industry UsageUsed broadly across manufacturing, automotive, and process industriesSpecialized in robotic system installation, repair, and programming within those industries

Automation professionals focus on designing, programming, and maintaining automated systems, while Robotics Technicians specialize in robotic hardware, troubleshooting, and repair. Both roles often overlap but differ in technical focus and certifications required.

What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Automation jobs?

Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Automation job openings:

Infographic showing various Automation job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,958 per year, or $52.9 per hour.

Automation Technician

Actalent

Dubuque, IA

$25.90 - $36.13/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Automation Technician

Job Description

We are seeking an Automation Technician with a strong customer focus and proven technical expertise in maintenance functions. This role requires either a two-year degree in a related field or equivalent past work experience. The ideal candidate will have basic PC skills, especially in MS Windows, and must be committed to continued technical training each year. The position involves working towards a Class A Journeyman license if in the electrical program, and requires an understanding of electrical components and advanced electrical/mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

  • Demonstrate technical expertise in maintenance functions.
  • Understand and troubleshoot issues of basic complexity in advanced electrical and mechanical systems, including PLCs, Drives, Servo, HMI, and CNC.
  • Work with pneumatics, automation, and robotics.
  • Engage in basic project management tasks.
  • Handle hazardous waste while wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
  • Perform occasional heavy lifting, replace motors, pumps, and extruder screws using provided equipment.
  • Perform repetitive actions such as simple staring, grasping, firm grasping, and fine manipulating with both hands.
  • Work outdoors and in confined space conditions, occasionally working at heights from ladders and platforms.
  • Handle various chemicals and work near energized electric circuits and hot equipment/materials.

Essential Skills

  • Two years of experience in a related field or equivalent past work experience.
  • Demonstrated technical expertise in maintenance functions.
  • Basic PC skills (MS Windows).
  • Understanding of electrical components and advanced electrical/mechanical systems.
  • Basic project management skills.
  • Troubleshooting skills in mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, and PLC systems.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

  • Working towards a Class A Journeyman license if in the electrical program.
  • Ability to occasionally lift and carry objects up to 100 pounds.
  • Capability to squat, crawl, reach above shoulders, kneel, and balance.
  • Experience working with various chemicals and handling hazardous waste.

Work Environment

This role is based in a heavy manufacturing environment with a transformative project underway, impacting multiple departments including manufacturing, quality, design, and IT. The team values hands-on problem-solving and continuous improvement. The work schedule includes two shifts: two positions on the first shift and two on the second shift. The work involves meeting tight deadlines, and you may be required to work outside and in confined spaces, wearing the proper PPE.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract position based out of Dubuque, IA.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.90 - $36.13/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a fully onsite position in Dubuque,IA.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Sep 1, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


Actalent logo

About Actalent

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

Year founded

1983

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