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Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems ...

Hydrite

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - CONTROLS ENGINEER The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation engineering team. We are looking for someone who capitalizes on a hands-on approach and has a continuous ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related knowledge to design industrial controls systems and assembly tools. Applying a working knowledge of ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · Hybrid

$81K - $105K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation engineering team. We are looking for someone who capitalizes on a hands-on approach and has a continuous ...

Invio Automation

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related knowledge to design industrial controls systems and assembly tools. Applying a working knowledge of ...

STRYTEN ENERGY

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation engineering team. We are looking for someone who capitalizes on a hands-on approach and has a continuous ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation engineering team. We are looking for someone who capitalizes on a hands-on approach and has a continuous ...

STRYTEN ENERGY

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation engineering team. We are looking for someone who capitalizes on a hands-on approach and has a continuous ...

Wunderlich-Malec

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up ...

Barry Wehmiller Group

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system programs for our Equipment and Automation (E&A) machinery, ensuring all developments are fully ...

Barry-Wehmiller Companies

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system programs for our Equipment and Automation (E&A) machinery, ensuring all developments are fully ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsControls Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Controls Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$51.7K

$90.7K

$123K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Iowa is $90,708.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $101,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, automation, and process control, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI software, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Siemens/Rockwell training are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of automated systems critical to industrial and manufacturing environments.

What does a controls engineer do?

A Controls Engineer designs, develops, and maintains systems that control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with automation systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, actuators, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) to ensure efficient, safe, and reliable operation. Controls Engineers also troubleshoot and optimize existing systems, implement upgrades, and ensure compliance with safety standards. Their expertise is crucial for improving productivity, reducing downtime, and integrating new technologies into production environments.

What is the difference between Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentManufacturing plants, automation facilities, industrial settingsDesign offices, research labs, power plants, industrial sites
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower generation, electronics, telecommunications, industrial systems
Common Search/ComparisonControls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, often working closely with machinery and PLCs. Electrical Engineers have a broader scope, working on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. While both roles require electrical knowledge and certifications, Controls Engineers specialize more in automation and control systems, whereas Electrical Engineers may work across various electrical disciplines.

What are common challenges faced by controls engineers when working on multidisciplinary project teams?

Controls Engineers frequently collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, which can present challenges in aligning design standards, timelines, and communication styles. They must ensure that control systems integrate seamlessly with hardware and software components while also meeting safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Controls Engineers often act as a bridge between technical disciplines to troubleshoot issues and implement solutions efficiently.
More about Controls Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Engineer jobs in IA? For Controls Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,708 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Tri-City Group

Davenport, IA • On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Salary:

Tri-City Group is seeking an experienced Controls Engineer for Davenport, IA. The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting with customers, performing installation and start-up services, performing certain maintenance services, and participating in sales and marketing calls.


Qualifications:

  • Bachelors Degree in Electrical Engineering or an Associates Degree in Electrical Engineering with substantial industrial controls experience
  • Strong communication skills both orally and in writing, a strong attention to detail and safety, and representing the company with professionalism and integrity.
  • Experience should involve working with industrial electrical power and control systems in design engineering, maintenance engineering, or an operations capacity. Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using programmable logic controllers from Allen-Bradley, Siemens, and GE is preferred.
  • Knowledge and experience in industrial automation projects using PC operator interfaces or SCADA software from Citect, Intellution, Wonderware, or Rockwell software and experience working with industrial sensors and instrumentation is also preferred.


All job offers are contingent upon completing a drug screen and reference check. Tri-City Group is an equal-opportunity employer.