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Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Control Systems Specialist

IA · On-site

$85.82K - $105.81K/yr

Control Systems Opening Date: 03/17/2026 JOB SUMMARY Why Work at Des Moines Water Works? At Des ... This role collaborates with maintenance, operations, engineering staff, and contractors to ...

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 ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79.10K - $112.80K/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 ...

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

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 May 31, 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 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.

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 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 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 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.

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 job categories do people searching Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Control Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Control Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Control Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 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.
Project Engineer - Control Systems

Project Engineer - Control Systems

River Cities Engineering

Blue Grass, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary:

About River Cities Engineering

River Cities Engineering (RCE) designs and delivers electrical and control system solutions for industrial clients. We value safety, quality, and practical problem-solvingand we support a collaborative environment where people can grow their skills while delivering great work.


About the role

The Project Engineer supports the successful execution of electrical and control system projectsfrom concept through commissioning. Youll help design and implement automation solutions, provide technical oversight during construction and installation, and work with project teams to deliver safe, compliant, high-quality results on schedule and within budget.


What youll do

  • Design and develop electrical and control systems for industrial automation, robotics, and manufacturing applications.
  • Create and review schematics, control logic, and technical specifications in accordance with applicable codes and standards.
  • Program and implement PLCs, HMIs, SCADA systems, and other automation components.
  • Support project planning and execution by helping define scope, schedules, and budgets; track progress; and communicate status to internal teams and clients.
  • Identify risks and issues, assist with troubleshooting, and help implement mitigation plans to support on-time delivery.
  • Help establish and follow quality control processes; test control systems for functionality and reliability; and resolve technical issues as they arise.
  • Engage with clients to gather requirements, provide updates, and support change requests.
  • Maintain accurate project documentation (specifications, user manuals, as-built drawings, etc.).
  • Follow company policies and applicable safety, health, and regulatory requirements; promote safe work practices on jobsites.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


What were looking for

  • Associates degree in Electrical Engineering Technology (or equivalent experience) required; BSEE/BSME from an ABET-accredited university preferred.
  • 1+ year of beginner/intermediate experience in electrical and control systems engineering preferred.
  • Working knowledge of controls engineering, including control system design and implementation.
  • Working knowledge of PLC programming, HMI development, and common control hardware.
  • Familiarity with relevant codes/standards and safety regulations (e.g., NEC/NFPA 70,
  • NFPA 70E, IEC) and OSHA requirements related to electrical construction.
  • Previous experience with industrial electrical construction projects preferred.
  • Ability to operate a computer and common business software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills, analytical/problem-solving ability, and attention to detail; able to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Ability to accurately identify and distinguish between color-coded electrical wires (safety essential).
  • Ability to understand and apply job-related instructions and materials in English, with or without reasonable accommodation or through an approved translation method, as required for safe and effective job performance; basic reading, writing, and arithmetic proficiency required.
  • All duties are to be performed in accordance with company policies and in compliance with applicable equal opportunity, health, and safety regulations.

Work environment & physical requirements

This role involves office and jobsite work. With or without reasonable accommodation, you must be able to meet the physical demands of the position, including:

  • Lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds.
  • Bending, kneeling, squatting, stooping, crawling, climbing, pushing, pulling, balancing, and reaching overhead.
  • Working in confined spaces and at elevated heights.
  • Working in hot, cold, or inclement weather and in environments with dirt, dust, debris, and/or fumes.
  • Sitting, standing, and moving for extended periods of time.
  • Working in environments with typical noise levels of approximately 8095 dBA (PPE will be provided and may be required).

Schedule, travel, and location

  • Full-time, onsite at our Davenport, IA location (remote work is not available for this role).
  • Overtime, weekends, nights, and holidays may be required based on business needs.
  • Travel to job sites may be required, including overnight stays.


Benefits

Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, flexible spending plan, 401(k) plus matching, paid time off, paid holidays, paid bereavement, company apparel allowance. Relocation will not be provided for this position.


Equal Opportunity Employer
River Cities Engineering is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other status protected by applicable law.