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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

SHAZAM

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Card controls and user profile management * Alerts, notifications, and fraud prevention ... Bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, or a relevant field preferred

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of ... that controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available that ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded software that controls machine operations, functionality, or display information to operators.

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Implement features, graphical interfaces, and system controls using C++, and Qt/QML. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, systems, and test engineers to define software ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of Back-end embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Development methods include C ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of Back-end embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Development methods include C ...

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All JobsControls Software Engineer JobsControls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Controls Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$45

$62

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for controls software engineer in Iowa is $45.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40.87 and $52.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Controls Software Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectControls Software EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Software Engineering; often requires experience in control systemsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering; may require certifications in automation systems
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing control software for machinery and industrial systemsDesigning, implementing, and maintaining automated processes and systems
Industry UsageManufacturing, robotics, process controlManufacturing, process industries, robotics

Controls Software Engineers focus on developing control algorithms and software for machinery, while Automation Engineers design and optimize automated processes. Both roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope: controls software is more software development-centric, whereas automation emphasizes process improvement and system integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Controls Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Controls Software Engineer, you need a strong background in control systems theory, programming (such as C/C++ or PLC languages), and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with tools like MATLAB/Simulink, SCADA systems, and industry-specific automation platforms is typically required, along with certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP) being advantageous. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help you effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address complex system challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, implementing, and maintaining reliable and efficient automated control systems in industrial settings.

What are Controls Software Engineers?

Controls Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and implement software used to control machines, industrial processes, or automated systems. They work at the intersection of hardware and software, creating programs that direct how machinery operates in sectors like manufacturing, automotive, and robotics. Their responsibilities often include writing control algorithms, configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs), troubleshooting system issues, and ensuring equipment operates safely and efficiently. Controls Software Engineers collaborate closely with electrical, mechanical, and process engineers to deliver integrated solutions. This role requires strong programming skills, an understanding of control theory, and familiarity with industrial automation tools.

How does a Controls Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware and mechanical teams during a project?

As a Controls Software Engineer, collaboration with hardware and mechanical teams is integral throughout the project lifecycle. You will frequently participate in cross-functional meetings to align software controls with hardware specifications and system requirements. This may involve reviewing electrical schematics, discussing sensor integration, and conducting joint troubleshooting sessions during system commissioning. Open communication and a willingness to adapt your code based on physical system feedback are key to ensuring seamless system performance and successful project delivery.
What are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Controls Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Controls Software Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Controls Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Controls Software Engineer jobs in IA? For Controls Software Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Controls Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controls Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,291 per year, or $45.8 per hour.
Software or Systems Engineers - Flight Controls

Software or Systems Engineers - Flight Controls

Performance Software

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

Salary: $75,000-$145,000 DOE

We have an immediate need for an Avionics Software or Systems Engineer. This position can either be direct in one of our office locations or as a remote contract. We are located in Phoenix, AZ, Cedar Rapids, IA, Grand Rapids, MI, Bothell, WA, Lexington, KY, and New Orleans, LA.


Pay Range: $75/hr - $110/hr - DOE - Contract

$75,000 - $145,000 - DOE - Direct



Job Requirements


  • Due to compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidate must be a U.S. Person, which is defined as, a U.S. citizen, a U.S. permanent resident, or have protected status in the U.S. under asylum or refugee status or have the ability to obtain an export authorization
  • Bachelors or advanced degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Mathematics, or equivalent development experience
  • Significant Avionics Flight Controls software experience is required
  • Strong object oriented language (C++, C#, Python, etc.) and software development methodologies (Waterfall, Agile, etc.)
  • Demonstrated teamwork and leadership abilities
  • Embedded software experience is required


Why work with those of us at Performance Software? Why change jobs or begin your career with us?


Our Mission:

Your success. How, you might ask? By providing a company culture dedicated to a sensible work/life balance by hiring carefully selected team players with whom you will work; by encouraging each other to produce the best embedded software for safety critical (Avionics & Medical Instruments) systems in the country; by having raving fans (customers who come back to us regularly because we get it done right and on time).

Were a medium-sized company thats growing rapidly, but which maintains that small company feel. At Performance, youre not just a name & face or locked onto a fixed team maintaining legacy systems; instead, youll be working on a wide variety of projects using the full gamut of advanced software development technologies.

We provide what great talent wants and deserves!


About Performance:

Performance Inc. is engaged in the design of Real-time Embedded Software. This includes avionics and healthcare applications such as CT Scanner, Synthetic Vision Cockpit Displays, Flight Management System Guidance and Navigation, Platforms (I/O, BITE, Driver, Boot, BSP, DSP, A/D, Dataloader), and Datalink Applications (FANS, VDL Mode 2, ATN, CPDLC). Our customers are both Commercial and Defense related healthcare and avionics manufacturers.


We have locations in Phoenix, AZ, Cedar Rapids, IA, Grand Rapids, MI, Bothell, WA, Lexington, KY, and New Orleans, LA. We have been in business since 1998 and have been awarded INC 5000 Fastest Growing Companies and Best Places to Work in Arizona multiple years.


Performance Software is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. We are committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you need reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and/or to receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please discuss this with your recruiter if you are selected for an interview.



To learn more about us: www.psware.com