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Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls Application Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Controls Application Engineer We are seeking a hands-on Controls Application Engineer to join our team. This role is ideal for a proactive problem solver who enjoys working in industrial environments ...

Controls Automation Engineer

Mount Pleasant, IA · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Controls Automation Engineer - Mt. Pleasant, IA Minimum 2 years of experience as a Controls Automation Engineer Venteon is currently seeking a Controls Automation Engineer to fill an opening with a ...

Develops and maintains a schedule and budget for assigned engineering projects. Provides reports on the status of project milestones and adjusts schedules accordingly. Controls expenditures within ...

Engineer, Automation & Controls

Newton, IA · On-site

$76K - $99K/yr

... engineering projects. • Provides reports on the status of project milestones and adjusts schedules accordingly. • Controls expenditures within limitations of project budget. • Identifies ...

Controls Engineer-Monte 3rd shift

Montezuma, IA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

The Controls Engineer will provide programming, installation and maintenance to new and existing production equipment. Must be proficient in Siemens PLCs Job Responsibilities: The following duties ...

The Controls Engineer will provide programming, installation and maintenance to new and existing production equipment. Must be proficient in Siemens PLCs Job Responsibilities: The following duties ...

Controls Engineer-Monte 2nd Shift

Montezuma, IA · On-site

$77K - $99K/yr

The Controls Engineer will provide programming, installation and maintenance to new and existing production equipment. Must be proficient in Siemens PLCs Job Responsibilities: The following duties ...

Showing results 41-60

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.
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:
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.

Senior Instrumentation & Controls Engineer 1 - Nuclear

Sargent & Lundy

Cedar Rapids, IA • Hybrid

$95K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Sargent & Lundy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

119th of 441 rated engineering


Job description

Description

This position will require onsite support at the Duane Arnold Energy Center supporting project needs. This will start out as a remote position but could change to a hybrid work arrangement where you'll spend three days a week in the office, giving you the flexibility to work remotely for two days.

Nuclear Power is a carbon-free energy source.  Our nuclear power generation clients are digitizing their existing   power plants due to the increasing demand for electric power.  This is expanding our work in the Instrumentation and Controls Engineering group.  Due to this influx of work, Sargent & Lundy has a need for additional I&C Engineers.

This position will offer you the opportunity to work in a project team environment with other engineers and designers involved in the design, modification, and analysis of instrumentation and control systems in new and existing power plants. You will work on interesting and challenging projects that include investigating, trouble-shooting, and solving a wide variety of electrical controls engineering issues, including the following:

  • Digital Systems Design Development -- PLC, DCS, Touchscreens, network switches , and control systems
  • Functional requirement and procurement specifications for control systems
  • Mechatronics, control systems for pumps, valves, heat exchangers, steam turbines and reactors to improve the functionality of the nuclear power plant
  • Critical digital asset cyber assessment
  • Client meetings and site walkdowns to validate scope and ensure client satisfaction
  • Assist the project manager/director to ensure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time, and within budget
  • Prepare detailed calculations, including scaling, uncertainty, and setpoint calculations for digital and analog controls applications
  • Interface with vendors to perform document reviews and prepare equipment purchase specifications
  • Prepare reports and studies that present technical information in a clear and concise manner to meet client requirements
  • Perform independent reviews of work performed by others, including design documentation, specifications, calculations, and drawings
  • Enhance your career via participation in professional Communities of Practice
  • Provide guidance as a mentor in the development of less experienced engineers
Qualifications

We do not sponsor employees for work authorization in the U.S. for this position.

  • BS or MS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET accredited program
  • Five or more years of experience in I&C Design Engineering.
  • Experience with the selection of equipment, control philosophy, and the preparation and assembly of design packages, calculations, and specifications
  • Experience with controls system design including applications for equipment such as turbines, pumps, feedwater controls, and data displays
  • Experience with serving as the firm's client liaison in a support or lead engineering role
  • Experience in reviewing design documentation
  • PE license is preferred
AI & Automation at Sargent & Lundy

In this role, we expect people to be willing or able to lead others who use modern tools:

  • You are expected to lead others in taking engineering problems from issue to solution by setting expectations for using data and modern tools such as automation and AI to improve workflows, reduce rework, and deliver cost-effective designs.
  • Leaders in these roles often direct automation and process-improvement work, for example, how teams automate calculations, summarize technical documents, or generate design documentation and guiding when and how AI or agentic AI tools are used while ensuring results are checked.
  • Overseeing engineers who program or script (e.g., Python, MATLAB, advanced Excel) to automate engineering tasks, with review of automated outputs, is valued but not required.
  • We also value additional learning, such as a minor, certificate, or other experience in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, or related fields that enables effective oversight of automation and agentic AI-enabled engineering workflows.
Award-Winning Benefits

At Sargent & Lundy, we care about the health and well-being of our employees. Our commitment extends beyond the workplace, offering comprehensive healthcare plans and generous paid time off to support our team members in every aspect of their lives. We understand the importance of work-life balance, which is why we are proud to provide competitive, award-winning benefits. Our dedication to employee satisfaction has earned us the prestigious Top Workplaces Culture Excellence Award for compensation and benefits in 2022, 2023, and 2024.

Health & WellnessFinancial BenefitsWork-Life Balance
  • Health Plans: Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life & Accident Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Back-Up Daycare
  • FSA & HSA
  • 401(k)
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Account
  • Merit Scholarship Program
  • Employee Discount Program
  • Corporate Charitable Giving Program
  • Tuition Assistance
  • First Professional Licensure Bonus
  • Employee Referral Bonus
  • Paid Annual Personal/Sick Time (PST)
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Paid Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Work Arrangements
Compensation Range$84,762 - $129,498Transparency StatementSargent & Lundy discloses compensation ranges that comply with all local and state regulations. The total compensation package for eligible positions will include a base salary or an hourly rate and a comprehensive benefits package, reflecting our commitment to rewarding performance and supporting the overall well-being of our employees. Individuals may also be eligible to participate in our yearly discretionary bonus.About This Business Unit

Join Sargent & Lundy's Nuclear Power Group and be part of a team driving the future of clean, carbon-free energy. Since 1954, we've been a trusted leader in nuclear engineering, design, and licensing, with expertise spanning small modular reactors (SMRs), advanced reactor technology (ART), and first-of-a-kind commercial reactor restart projects. Our work supports life extensions and digital modernization of existing nuclear plants, coal-to-nuclear conversion initiatives with the Department of State, and international nuclear new-build projects. With a commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability, we provide cutting-edge solutions that power communities worldwide while reducing emissions. Shape the future of global energy with us!

Equal Opportunity

Sargent & Lundy is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by applicable law.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Sargent & Lundy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Sargent & Lundy is one of the most experienced full-service architect-engineering firms in the world. Founded in 1891, the firm is a global leader in power and energy with expertise in grid modernization, renewable energy, energy storage, nuclear power, and fossil fuels. Sargent & Lundy delivers comprehensive project services--from consulting, design and implementation to construction management, commissioning and operations/maintenance--with an emphasis on quality and safety. The firm serves public and private sector clients in the power and energy, gas distribution, industrial, and government sectors.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

1891

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