1

Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Senior Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

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

Controls Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/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 ...

Software Engineer 2/3

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$168K - $200K/yr

Implementing security and access controls, including RBAC/LBAC models, certificate lifecycle ... a Software Engineer 2. A minimum of five years of experience in business software application ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Controls Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$18

$45

$62

How much do controls software engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 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:

Infographic showing various Controls Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,291 per year, or $45.8 per hour.

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 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 includesopportunitiesfor professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

This position is associated with the design and development of advanced system displays and the applications each display would contain. Various roles are available that require use of C++, Qt/QML, and virtual machines that run Linux based operating systems. The developer will be creating robust operating system driven software for advanced displays in conjunction with the display systems team and product testing team.

** Note: This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity.

Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain software applications and frameworks for Linux-based operating systems that power advanced machine display systems.
  • 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 requirements and system behavior.
  • Work within an Agile development environment to plan, implement, test, and deliver iterative software improvements.
  • Perform peer code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and provide solutions to both software and hardware interface challenges.
  • Develop and execute unit and system-level tests to validate software functionality and performance.
  • Utilize modern development tools such as VS Code, Git, and Linux-based build environments to manage and deliver quality software releases.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of software processes, tools, and practices.
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Proficiency in Object Oriented Programming. (C++, Java, or C# Preferred)
  • Practical experience with Git or equivalent version control systems.
  • Understanding of UI/UX development principles and application design.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills for both software and system-level issues.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including cross-functional and international collaboration.
  • Ability to interpret requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software solutions
Desired Skills and Attributes

Experience with 2D/3D graphics rendering and visualization.

Knowledge of OpenGL or OpenCV for display rendering or image processing.

Experience developing graphical user interfaces using Qt/QML.

Exposure to Full Stack Development concepts and frameworks.

Familiarity with CAN protocol or other machine communication interfaces.

Understanding of MQTT or similar message-based communication systems.

Passion for creating innovative software solutions that enhance operator experience in rugged, real-world environments.

Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to learning new technologies and tools.

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this role. Salary Range

$65,000-$95,000/year commensurate with experience

Why work for RFA? About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided machine design and engineering services to industry leading customers dating back to 1943. Our primary focus is project based product 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, MN, Satellite office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plans for Medical Expenses and Dependent Care
  • Extra Time Bonuses
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance
Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Education

Bachelors of Science or better in Computer Science or related field.

#J-18808-Ljbffr