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Control Systems Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Basepoint Building Automations

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

At Basepoint Building Automations, we don't just install control systems--we create smarter, more efficient buildings. We're growing and looking for a Senior Building Automation Engineer who enjoys ...

JLL

Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Serve as site technical expert in automation control systems and mentor Apprentices to meet safety and technical standards. * Design, develop, implement, and optimize control systems and software ...

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All JobsControl Systems Engineer JobsControl Systems Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Control Systems Engineer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$59.5K

$106.2K

$171.3K

How much do control systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for control systems engineer in Des Moines, IA is $106,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,000.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a control systems engineer?

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 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 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.

Are control systems engineers in demand?

Control systems engineers are in high demand due to their role in designing and maintaining automation and control systems across industries such as manufacturing, energy, and aerospace. The growing adoption of industrial automation, robotics, and smart technologies increases employment opportunities for these engineers, especially those with skills in PLC programming, SCADA systems, and relevant certifications.
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The top searched job categories for Control Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

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Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Control Systems Engineer job openings:

Control Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Control Systems Engineer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,157 per year, or $51 per hour.

Systems Engineer - Industrial Automation

Baker Group

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE

The Systems Engineer will work with the engineering and leadership teams to assist with the direction of strategic initiatives that improve delivery and quality, as well as reducing costs. Maintain and grow the “Client for Life” concept for existing and new clients. Performs related work as required.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be constructed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Provide sales support as needed to assist project manager / sales to obtain more work. Assists in customer demos, estimating work, product application information and creation of proposals

• Ensures employee satisfaction by continual coordination and communication

• Responsible for executing scope and pointing out opportunities for items above and beyond contracted scope of work

• Responsible for understanding and adhering to contract terms and conditions

• Designing and developing distributed control systems (DCS) including PLC/HMI/SCADA programs, product selection for bill of material (BOM) based on customer specifications, creating sequence of operations (SOO), and creating Engineering Drawings in AutoCAD Electrical.

• Produce engineering and project control submittals utilizing Baker Group’s standard engineering software, select Baker Group’s standard parts when applicable, and producing control submittal with necessary information as per Baker Group’s standard control submittal format

• Collaborate with engineering team to review product standards, control submittal formats, and any other items as necessary related to engineering control systems

• Partner with engineering team and field electricians / technicians to continually improve our engineering process, accuracy, and quality.

• Work with project managers, engineering team and mechanical design engineers to develop sequence of operations for equipment.

• Re-estimate projects based upon engineered control submittals.

• Provide as built documentation for operation and maintenance after the project completion

• Assist with updating our as built process for a better quality product.

• Initiate and / or participate turnover meetings to engineering and field discussing project scope, safety, timelines, etc.

• Utilize and enhance company standard documents for business development, pre-proposal checklists, project tracking, field labor scheduling, turnovers, subcontracts, purchase orders, warranty, etc.


MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 4-year Technical Degree OR

• Equivalent experience in the Building Automation (DDC) industry may be substituted for this requirement


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• N/A


MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Good communication skills

• Ability to work while minimally supervised and at times unsupervised

• Understand numerous computer operating systems and drafting applications

• Advanced knowledge of computers

• Excellent typing skills


ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY

At any given time, may be exposed to:

• Normal office conditions

• Construction job sites


EQUIPMENT/TOOLS

• Laptop PC

• PPE, when required (hard hat, safety vest, gloves, steel toe boots)

• Computer operating systems

• Clothing: normal office attire

• Designer Suite

• Microsoft Visio

• Tridium software

Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.