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Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Control Systems Engineer As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine ...

RFA Engineering

Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Systems Engineer A Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining clear, comprehensive requirements documentation that guides both software development and testing processes for ...

Baker Group

Systems Engineer - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Designing and developing distributed control systems (DCS) including PLC/HMI/SCADA programs ... Produce engineering and project control submittals utilizing Baker Group's standard engineering ...

Wabtec

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $112K/yr

Based in Cedar Rapids , Iowa, the PTC Systems Engineering team is the backbone of Wabtec's Digital Intelligence Train Performance & Automation group for design of Positive Train Control on-board ...

Wabtec

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$79K - $112K/yr

Based in Cedar Rapids , Iowa, the PTC Systems Engineering team is the backbone of Wabtec's Digital Intelligence Train Performance & Automation group for design of Positive Train Control on-board ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Systems Engineer

Peterson, IA

$61K - $141K/yr

Systems Engineer The Opportunity: Are you looking for an opportunity to combine your technical skills with big picture thinking to make an impact on national security? Your ability to translate real ...

Crystal Group

Systems Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Systems Engineer Reports to: Manager, Project Engineering Department : Engineering Work Model: Full-time, On-site - No Travel Required Schedule : Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Company & Benefit Information ...

Crystal Group

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

Systems Engineer Reports to: Manager, Project Engineering Department : Engineering Work Model: Full-time, On-site - No Travel Required Schedule : Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Company & Benefit Information ...

Crystal Group

Systems Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

Systems Engineer Reports to: Manager, Project Engineering Department : Engineering Work Model: Full-time, On-site - No Travel Required Schedule : Monday - Friday 8am-5pm Company & Benefit Information ...

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All JobsControl Systems Engineer JobsControl Systems Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Control Systems Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$57.3K

$102.2K

$164.8K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for control systems engineer in Iowa is $102,169.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $118,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Control Systems Engineers in senior or specialized roles, especially in industries like aerospace, defense, or oil and gas, can earn $500,000 or more annually with experience, bonuses, and stock options. High-level positions often require advanced skills in automation, programming, and certifications such as PE or PMP, along with extensive industry experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Control Systems Engineers in fast-paced industrial environments?

Control Systems Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting unexpected system faults under tight deadlines, integrating new automation technologies with legacy equipment, and ensuring minimal downtime during system upgrades. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including process engineers, IT specialists, and maintenance staff—is essential to address these issues efficiently. Staying current with evolving industry standards and cybersecurity practices also plays a critical role in maintaining reliable and safe control systems.

What does a Control Systems Engineer do?

A Control Systems Engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that manage machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy. They analyze system requirements, create control algorithms, and use tools like MATLAB or PLCs to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely. Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of automation are essential for this role.

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

AspectControl Systems EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Control Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test control systems in manufacturing, automation, or robotics industriesDesign, develop, and test electrical systems in power, electronics, or communication sectors
Industry UsageCommon in automation, robotics, manufacturing, and process controlWidespread across power generation, electronics, telecommunications, and industrial sectors

Control Systems Engineers focus on designing and maintaining automated control systems, while Electrical Engineers work on broader electrical systems. Both roles require similar technical skills and certifications, but their industry applications and daily tasks differ.

Is QC engineer a good career?

A QC (Quality Control) engineer focuses on inspecting and testing products to ensure they meet quality standards, often working in manufacturing or production environments. It can be a stable career with opportunities for advancement, especially with skills in testing methods, quality management systems, and relevant certifications like Six Sigma. Job satisfaction depends on interest in quality assurance and attention to detail.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Control Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Control Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering along with expertise in control theory and system dynamics. Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, industrial networking, and programming languages such as ladder logic or MATLAB/Simulink is typically required, and certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) can be advantageous. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the design, implementation, and optimization of safe, efficient, and reliable automated systems in industrial environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Control Systems Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership roles in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing. High salaries often involve specialized skills in automation, programming, and system integration, along with working in senior or managerial positions.

What are control systems engineers?

Control systems engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems that control and automate the operation of equipment or processes. They use principles from engineering, mathematics, and computer science to ensure that machinery and processes operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Control systems engineers work in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, energy, and automotive, where automated control and precision are essential. Their responsibilities often include creating and testing control algorithms, integrating sensors and actuators, and troubleshooting system issues.

What Is a Control Systems Engineer?

A control systems engineer’s duties include designing, building and maintaining instrumentation, monitors, and other equipment used to control complex systems. Some examples of these control systems include navigation networks, production machinery gauges, and computer system monitors. It is the control systems engineer’s job to maintain safe and efficient field operation of the equipment and to ensure the safety of those utilizing the equipment. These skilled engineers are typically well versed in mechanical, chemical, and electrical engineering concepts and design.

More about Control Systems Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Control Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Control Systems Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Control Systems Engineer jobs in IA? For Control Systems Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Control Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,169 per year, or $49.1 per hour.
Control Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
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.
Control Systems Engineer
As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine performance, productivity, automation, and operator experience.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement control systems for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain, and machine implement systems.
  • Create and maintain control system models using MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Perform simulations and virtual testing to evaluate system performance.
  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, and control system tuning.
  • Analyze machine and sensor data to improve system performance and reliability.
  • Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions.
  • Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements.
  • Support product development activities from concept through production.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation related to control system development and testing.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
  • Understanding of control systems, hydraulics, powertrain systems, robotics, or vehicle dynamics.
  • Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience designing, implementing, or validating control systems.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, Simscape, or similar modeling and simulation tools.
  • Experience with embedded software development or controls integration.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic systems, powertrain systems, robotics, or autonomous machine technologies.
  • Experience operating, testing, or developing construction, agricultural, mining, or other off-highway equipment.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensor technologies, and machine diagnostics.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$100,000 - 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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