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Controls Engineer Jobs in Cedar Falls, IA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$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 ...

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 ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget, schedule and ...

New

Embedded Software Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$129K - $170K/yr

As an Embedded Software Controls Engineer, you will design, develop, test, and document embedded software for electromechanical/electrohydraulic subsystems for agricultural equipment projects. In ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

Manufacturing line/process design experience Experience with SAP, MES, Creo, AutoCAD Controls Engineering/safety system design experience Robotics programming (FANUC) and troubleshooting experience ...

Manufacturing Engineer II

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$72K - $92K/yr

Controls engineering and safety-system design. * FANUC robotics programming and troubleshooting highly preferred. Education * Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Engineering Technology, or equivalent ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Manufacturing line/process design experience Experience with SAP, MES, Creo, AutoCAD Controls Engineering/safety system design experience Robotics programming (FANUC) and troubleshooting experience ...

Controls engineering or industrial safety systems experience * FANUC robotics programming and troubleshooting experience * Experience supporting continuous improvement and operational excellence ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35.81 - $42/hr

Controls Engineering/safety system design experience. * Robotics programming (FANUC) and troubleshooting experience (highly preferred). Pay Transparency: The typical base pay for this role across the ...

Be Seen First

Controls Engineering/safety system design experience. * Robotics programming (FANUC) and troubleshooting experience (highly preferred). Education: * Bachelor of Science in Engineering/Technology or ...

AECOM is seeking a Project Controls Analyst I to join our Waterloo, Iowa team supporting a diverse ... Experience supporting engineering, construction, infrastructure, or other professional services ...

AECOM is seeking a Project Controls Analyst I to join our Waterloo, Iowa team supporting a diverse ... Experience supporting engineering, construction, infrastructure, or other professional services ...

AECOM is seeking a Project Controls Analyst I to join our Waterloo, Iowa team supporting a diverse ... Experience supporting engineering, construction, infrastructure, or other professional services ...

Manage project controls and financial activities from project setup through closeout, including ... Experience supporting engineering, construction, infrastructure, or other professional services ...

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Showing results 1-20

Controls Engineer information

See Cedar Falls, IA salary details

$51.2K

$89.8K

$121.9K

How much do controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for controls engineer in Cedar Falls, IA is $89,830.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,700.00 and $100,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Cedar Falls, IA are hiring for Controls Engineer jobs?

Cities near Cedar Falls, IA with the most Controls Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Controls Engineer job openings in Cedar Falls, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $89,830 per year, or $43.2 per hour.

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA


Hydrite
Chemical Manufacturing • 501 - 1,000 employees

5.8

Company rating: 5.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

94th of 100 rated chemical manufacturers


$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

WHO WE ARE

We are a company where people matter

We are family driven

We are financially strong.

And we are looking for problem-solvers to join our growing team.  

BENEFITS

  • Up to 10% Retirement Contribution
  • $600 per Year Wellness Incentive 
  • Front-loaded Paid Time Off
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision - Eligible first day of the month following hire date.

JOIN A TOP WORKPLACE - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nlFHnnfvhk

CONTROLS ENGINEER

The Controls Engineer is an individual contributor responsible for evaluating, designing, programming, commissioning, and sustaining Hydrite's control systems (PLC/DCS/HMI) and related instrumentation. This role executes standards, implements changes through the MOC process, maintains Maximo PM/calibration plans, and ensures reliable data collection and historian integrations to support safe and efficient operations across assigned facilities.

Primary responsibilities include:

  • Design, program, commission, and support plant control systems, including DeltaV, PLCs, SCADA, HMIs, and associated instrumentation.
  • Troubleshoot, maintain, and optimize control systems to improve safety, reliability, and operational performance.
  • Lead and execute control system changes in accordance with Hydrite's Management of Change (MOC) process and applicable regulatory requirements.
  • Develop and maintain control system standards, documentation, cybersecurity practices, and lifecycle support programs.
  • Support capital projects from design through startup, including system configuration, testing, commissioning, and operational handoff.
  • Serve as a technical resource for controls, instrumentation, and automation systems across multiple facilities.
  • Configure and support data historians and automation systems to improve data visibility, reporting, and decision-making.
  • Collaborate with operations, maintenance, engineering, and IT/OT teams to support reliable plant operations.
  • Identify and implement automation and process improvement opportunities that enhance safety, efficiency, and productivity.
  • Provide technical training, mentoring, and support to operations, maintenance, and engineering personnel.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

  • This position reports to the Engineering, Automation, and Controls Manager. 

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related technical discipline required
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience with instrumentation and control systems
  • Minimum of 3 years of experience interfacing with contractors
  • Strong computer skills and knowledge of Power Point, Word, and Excel required
  • Must have communication and interpersonal skills, along with the ability to read, write and speak English

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to sit and/or stand up to 10 hours per day.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. on an occasional basis.
  • Ability to climb ladders and work at heights up to 40 feet on occasion.
  • Ability to travel overnight, ride in a car and/or plane for up to 6 hrs and travel 25% of time.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS

Benefits and perks include 401k and profit sharing, medical/dental/vision/life insurance, paid time off, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, legal services insurance, scholarship awards for children of employees, summer picnic, community giving events, free family wellness coaching including nutritionist and fitness coach.

WANT TO STAY CONNECTED?  FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/hydrite-chemical-co-
  • Facebook: facebook.com/hydrite
  • YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bs_493NR8RI

Learn more about Hydrite on our website: www.hydrite.com/careers

Privacy Notice for California Residents: https://www.hydrite.com/Legal/Privacy-Notice-for-Employees.htm



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