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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

... software updates, backups, calibration, and preventive maintenance execution. * Execute control ... Provide controls engineering support for capital projects, including procurement support, system ...

Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

... software updates, backups, calibration, and preventive maintenance execution. * Execute control ... Provide controls engineering support for capital projects, including procurement support, system ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$81K - $105K/yr

Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process ... programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$82K - $106K/yr

Designs, develops, and implements control systems (logic software and hardware) to meet process ... logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design, and PLC systems (i.e ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$82K - $106K/yr

Designs, develops, and implements control systems (logic software and hardware) to meet process ... logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design, and PLC systems (i.e ...

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 software * Work with cross-functional teams for continuous improvement projects

Controls Systems Engineer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$50 - $65/hr

Controls Systems Engineer We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Systems Engineer with expertise ... You will work closely with software and mechanical engineers to develop innovative control ...

Controls Systems Engineer

Ames, IA · Hybrid

$50 - $65/hr

Controls Systems Engineer We are seeking a highly skilled Controls Systems Engineer with expertise ... You will work closely with software and mechanical engineers to develop innovative control ...

... and other controls software platforms - Experience in controls design or programming - Systems integration experience - Field service engineering or systems training experience - Experience ...

Process Controls Engineer III- APC

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

A Process Controls Engineer III is responsible for developing designing and implementing ... Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software systems such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks is ...

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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:
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.
Controls Engineer

Controls Engineer

Hydrite

Cedar Falls, IA

$77K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


Hydrite Chemical rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 92 rated chemical manufacturers


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:

  • Lead and support Hydrite's safety vision, mission, and values by promoting safe work practices across all controls, instrumentation, and contractor activities.
  • Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations and standards (including PSM, RMP, and MOC requirements) through collaboration with SQRA and other regulatory stakeholders.
  • Evaluate, design, program, install, test, commission, and sustain plant control systems (primarily Delta V but can include PLC, SCADA, HMI) and associated instrumentation.
  • Maintain the functional integrity and lifecycle reliability of control systems through troubleshooting, hardware/software updates, backups, calibration, and preventive maintenance execution.
  • Execute control system changes in accordance with the controls Management of Change (MOC) process, including audits to verify compliance.
  • Develop, maintain, and enforce control system standards, procedures, practices, security requirements, and engineering documentation across facilities.
  • Program, test, and commission control system changes, including loop tuning, control optimization, interlock testing, alarm rationalization, FAT/SAT, startup, and operational handover.
  • Provide controls engineering support for capital projects, including procurement support, system configuration, commissioning, and startup of new systems or equipment.
  • Own execution plans and technical quality for assigned controls and automation projects.
  • Develop, maintain, and standardize DeltaV and PLC configurations, programming practices, I/O lists, cabinet drawings, and related documentation.
  • Support and expand plant automation capabilities to improve process reliability, operational efficiency, and production performance.
  • Configure, maintain, and expand data historians and data collection systems to ensure data quality, tagging standards, accessibility, and business value.
  • Improve access, visualization, and presentation of control system and process data to support operations, engineering, compliance, and management decision-making.
  • Execute, manage, and support preventive maintenance and calibration programs within Maximo, including development of job plans aligned with SOPs.
  • Support small-scale and stand-alone control systems (e.g., skid-mounted PLC/HMI systems) while ensuring cybersecurity, backup, and recovery practices.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for control systems, instrumentation, and plant data systems.
  • Provide technical support, guidance, and training to operations, maintenance, and engineering personnel on control system usage and standards.
  • Develop and maintain training materials and conduct training for control systems, instrumentation, and data collection platforms.
  • Mentor technicians and junior engineers and share knowledge across sites and engineering disciplines.
  • Collaborate with electrical, instrumentation, IT/OT, and engineering teams to support industrial networks, servers, and control system security.
  • Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve plant automation, information systems, KPIs, and technology adoption and present recommendations to management.
  • Ensure control system documentation (P&IDs, loop diagrams, cabinet drawings, I/O lists) remains accurate and up to date.
  • Uphold Hydrite's Standard of Excellence by supporting quality systems, effective communication, and continuous improvement across facilities.

REPORTING STRUCTURE

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

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE

  • A Bachler'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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