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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Redapt

Senior Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$150 - $170/hr

Senior Software Engineer RedaptInc. is a pioneering world-class data center infrastructure ... controls. * Participate in code reviews, automated testing, troubleshooting, performance ...

New

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... software from Citect, Intellution, Wonderware, or Rockwell software and experience working with ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... software from Citect, Intellution, Wonderware, or Rockwell software and experience working with ...

Tri-City Group

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

The controls engineer will be responsible for consulting, gathering design information, meeting ... software from Citect, Intellution, Wonderware, or Rockwell software and experience working with ...

Wells Fargo

Lead Software Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

... controls. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver secure, compliant, and scalable data ... Software Engineering experience, or equivalent demonstrated through one or a combination of the ...

Nationwide Technical Search

Controls Engineer

Victor, IA · On-site

$85 - $100/hr

Controls Engineer,2nd or 3rd Shifts Victor, IA * Onsite * Permanent/Direct Hire * Full Benefits ... Manage plant-wide equipment upgrades, electrical wiring installations, and software migration ...

Posted today

Stryten Manufacturing

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation ... Experience with all Rockwell software packages, including but not limited to RS Logix 5, 500, and ...

New

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Stryten Energy is hiring a Sr. Process Controls Engineer for our growing corporate automation ... Experience with all Rockwell software packages, including but not limited to RS Logix 5, 500, and ...

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 ... Experience with all Rockwell software packages, including but not limited to RS Logix 5, 500, and ...

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Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 21, 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 a controls software engineer?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controls software engineer?

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.

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,291 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Dubuque, IA

$70K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry-level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

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 programming language and Model Based Software Design. Testing methods include bench testing, computer simulation testing, and machine testing.

Responsibilities:

  • Feature by feature Back-end software development per Software Requirements Document of embedded software applications that control vehicle functions
  • Integration of software in a multi-developer team using Continuous Integration process
  • Functional and integration testing prior to hand-off to software test and evaluation group
  • Development and release status tracking using the Agile development process
  • Creation and support of software for machine prototyping
  • Troubleshoot and provide solutions for issues/updates posed by customer on the products released by the aftermarket team using engineering software and hardware tools
  • Creation of software design documentation
  • Design, develop and modify software features and libraries to integrate them into various microcontrollers
  • Work with software architects and developers to research and investigate project specific applications
  • Develop test cases to perform unit testing and regression testing for various aftermarket applications

Requirements

  • BS in Software, Computer, Electrical or other relevant Engineering degree
  • Experience with C or C++ development
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • Good organizational and time management skills
  • Ability to identify needed actions and act to resolve issues
  • Ability to communicate technical information effectively with a culturally diverse team
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Must have a valid Driver's License

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with CAN J1939 & LIN communication protocols
  • Experience with Simulink/Matlab Model Based Software Design
  • Experience with GitHub
  • General machine knowledge of vehicles or heavy equipment
  • Able to read/understand electrical schematics

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $70,000-$110,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

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