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Contract Plc Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Automation Technician

Charles City, IA · On-site

$38K/yr

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that ... Job Overview As part of the Engineering Department, the Automation Technician will support and ...

Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that ... Job Overview As part of the Engineering Department, the Automation Technician will support and ...

I & E Technician - West Branch This position is a long term 12 month+ contract position in West ... Additional skills we are seeking include experience with programming PLC's and HMI ...

Technical Intern 3

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$46K - $62K/yr

Are you looking for a dynamic and fast-paced environment where you can utilize your engineering ... Please note that pursuant to a government contract, this specific position requires a US Person. In ...

I & E Technician - 3 positions These positions are long term 12 month+ contract positions with 2 ... Additional skills we are seeking include experience with programming PLC's and HMI ...

Gather information from internal teams such as sales, engineering, finance, legal, and operations * Draft, format, and edit proposal content * Ensure submissions meet customer requirements and ...

Troubleshooting skills in mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, and PLC systems. Additional Skills ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Dubuque, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay ...

Troubleshooting skills in mechanical, electrical, hydraulics, and PLC systems. Additional Skills ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Dubuque, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay ...

... engineering drawings * Automation, mechanical, and electrical assembly experience * PLC ... Job Type & Location This is a Contract position based out of Hawarden, IA. Pay and Benefits The pay ...

Bachelor's degree in business, engineering, facilities management, or a related field, or ... Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Plc Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$19.7K

$91.8K

$131K

How much do contract plc engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract plc engineer in Iowa is $91,810.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract PLC engineer do?

A Contract PLC Engineer is a professional who specializes in programming, installing, and maintaining programmable logic controllers (PLCs) on a temporary or project basis. They are typically hired by companies to design, implement, and troubleshoot automated control systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, or automotive. Their responsibilities may include writing PLC code, integrating hardware and software, testing systems, and providing technical support during the commissioning phase. Contract PLC Engineers often work on short- or medium-term assignments, allowing companies to address specific automation needs without hiring a full-time employee.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract PLC engineer?

To thrive as a Contract PLC Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and programming of PLC systems, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with leading PLC platforms like Siemens, Allen-Bradley, and SCADA systems, as well as proficiency in ladder logic and HMI programming, is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working with clients and multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure efficient system integration, minimize downtime, and deliver successful automation solutions for clients.

What are some common challenges contract PLC engineers face when integrating with new client systems?

Contract PLC Engineers often encounter challenges such as limited documentation on existing client systems, varying hardware brands, and tight project deadlines. Adapting quickly to different programming standards and troubleshooting unfamiliar equipment are key aspects of the role. Effective communication with the client's in-house team is essential to understand system requirements and ensure a seamless integration, making strong interpersonal and technical skills valuable assets.

What is the difference between Contract Plc Engineer vs Control Systems Engineer?

AspectContract Plc EngineerControl Systems Engineer
CertificationsPLC programming, electrical or automation certificationsControl systems, automation, electrical engineering degrees
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, project sitesDesign offices, industrial plants, testing labs
Industry UsageManufacturing, process industries, automation projectsAutomation, robotics, process control industries

Contract Plc Engineers and Control Systems Engineers often share certifications and work in industrial environments. However, Contract Plc Engineers focus primarily on programming and maintaining PLC systems during specific projects, while Control Systems Engineers design and develop broader control systems, including hardware and software integration. Both roles are essential in automation industries but differ in scope and responsibilities.

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

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

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Contract Plc Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Contract Plc Engineer job openings:

Automation Technician

Cambrex

Charles City, IA • On-site

$38K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago


Cambrex rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

Company Information
You Matter to Cambrex.
Cambrex is a leading global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that provides drug substance development and manufacturing across the entire drug lifecycle, as well as comprehensive analytical and IND enabling services.
With over 40 years of experience and a team of 2,000 experts servicing global clients from North America and Europe, Cambrex offers a range of specialized drug substance technologies and capabilities, including continuous flow, controlled substances, liquid-phase peptide synthesis, solid-state science, material characterization, and highly potent APIs.
Your Work Matters.
At Cambrex, we strive to build a culture where all colleagues have the opportunity to:
  • engage in work that matters to our customers and the patients they serve
  • learn new skills and enjoy new experiences in an engaging and safe environment
  • strengthen connections with coworkers and the community

We're committed to attracting and nurturing a passionate team of valued professionals in our fast-paced and growing company. We offer a competitive benefits package that includes healthcare, life insurance, planning for retirement, and more!
Your Future Matters.
Known for our customer-focused scientific and manufacturing excellence, as well as our strong commitment to quality and safety, we offer a range of career and growth opportunities across our global network of locations. Together with our customers, we aim to improve the quality of life for patients around the world. Start a career where You Matter by applying today!
Job Overview
As part of the Engineering Department, the Automation Technician will support and maintain the plant-wide Distributed Control System (DCS), standalone PLCs, and plant alarm systems. This role is primarily focused on hands-on implementation, operational troubleshooting, and day-to-day production support to ensure reliable system performance. The Automation Technician will work closely with Operations, Maintenance, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, and Engineering to identify and resolve automation-related issues, support system modifications, and assist with maintaining automation documentation.
Responsibilities
• Provide day-to-day automation support for Operations, Quality Assurance, Information Technology, Maintenance, and Production Engineering to ensure safe and efficient production operations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to DCS, PLC, alarm systems, and associated instrumentation.
• Assist with the implementation and testing of automation system modifications and upgrades under the guidance of engineering leadership.
• Support startup activities, system commissioning, and validation efforts related to automation systems.
• Maintain and update loop sheets, system hierarchy documentation, drawings, and related records to ensure accurate system documentation.
• Coordinate with contractors and vendors performing automation-related work onsite and ensure compliance with applicable policies and procedures.
• Train end users on system updates and changes to support proper operation of DCS and related systems.
• Provide ongoing production support to minimize downtime and improve system reliability.
• Support capital projects by assisting with automation-related implementation activities as needed.
All employees are required to adhere to DEA, EPA, FDA and cGMP regulations as they relate to the operation of the Company; and to adhere to all company safety rules and procedures. All employees are expected to report to work regularly and promptly. Other duties relating to departmental mission, not specifically detailed in this section may be assigned.
Qualifications/Skills
• Experience with equipment and instrumentation troubleshooting in a manufacturing environment preferred.
• Knowledge of instrument control systems, installation, testing, and maintenance practices preferred.
• Familiarity with Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) preferred.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other computer-based systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of cGMP and FDA regulated environments is beneficial.
Education, Experience & Licensing Requirements
• Associate degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Instrumentation Technology, Automation Technology, Computer Engineering Technology, or a related technical discipline preferred.
• Candidates with other relevant educational backgrounds, technical training, military experience, or demonstrated automation competencies will be considered based on applicable experience and technical knowledge.
• Two (2) or more years of experience supporting Distributed Control Systems (DCS), PLC systems, industrial automation systems, and/or plant alarm systems preferred.
Cambrex is committed to providing a safe and productive work environment. All offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a comprehensive pre-employment screen. The pre-employment screen may consist of several components including but not limited to a drug test, criminal record check, identity verification, reference checks, education and employment verification, and may vary based on federal, state, and local laws. Refusal to submit to testing will result in disqualification of further employment consideration.
All requirements are subject to possible modifications to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. Cambrex Corporation is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and will consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or gender identity), ancestry, national origin, place of birth, age, marital status, disability/handicap, genetic information, veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state, and/or local law.
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About Cambrex

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

East Rutherford, NJ, US

Year founded

1981

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