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Controls Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA

$67K - $87K/yr

DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related ... Working knowledge of personal computer, keyboard, and software programs. * Working knowledge of ...

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related ... Working knowledge of personal computer, keyboard, and software programs. * Working knowledge of ...

Controls Engineer

Eldridge, IA · On-site

$67K - $87K/yr

DESCRIPTION A Controls Engineers can apply electrical/pneumatic/hydraulic theory and related ... Working knowledge of personal computer, keyboard, and software programs. * Working knowledge of ...

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · Hybrid

$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

$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 ...

The Controls SME will be a part of the facility operations team and will be responsible for ... Experience with software programming languages to include Python, PHP, SQL * IT/Networking ...

Controls Engineer Manager

Cincinnati, IA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

The Controls Engineer Manager is responsible for end‑to‑end execution of all brownfield ... Prior experience defining and working with software/PLC interfaces. * Familiarity with SCADA/HMI ...

... controls. Our solutions integrate investment data from multiple platforms and provide automated ... The Lead Software Engineer will serve as a hands-on Murex Developer and integration specialist ...

Controls Engineer

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system ... Troubleshoot and debug new and existing software to ensure optimal performance and improve ...

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

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system ... Troubleshoot and debug new and existing software to ensure optimal performance and improve ...

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 · 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

Mediapolis, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

OVERVIEW The Controls Engineer will be responsible for designing and maintaining control system ... Troubleshoot and debug new and existing software to ensure optimal performance and improve ...

Showing results 41-60

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.

Controls Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Inc
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

$82K - $106K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:



  • 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history

  • Rated as a top System Integrator Giant


We have a Controls Engineer position in Cedar Rapids, IA. This position is responsible for controls engineering project requirements involving control system design, control panel design, PLC programming, instrumentation, check out support and start-up assistance.


Please Note: This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization, including H-1B sponsorship.



  • Designs, develops, and implements control system (logic software and hardware) to meet process system requirements

  • Develops schematics detailing control system configuration and wiring, and design equipment panel layouts on AutoCAD software

  • Develop Sequence of Operation document detailing control strategies for the process under control. Lead design reviews with customer for review and approval of design documents

  • Work at customer site to perform the system checkout and start-up of the integrated control system

  • Develop the final record system documentation and provide system training to the customer

  • Individual will be working on automation and control system integration projects for clients across multiple industries including both manufacturing production lines and data center building automation

  • Will act as technical lead on projects and guide lower level engineers and technicians

  • Will act as Project Manager on smaller projects ranging from $50K to $250K. This includes but not limited to:

    • Develops and executes implementation plans for the project

    • Assigns work to meet overall project deadlines

    • Ensures that all project team members clearly understand the scope of W-M responsibilities

    • Develops schedules for W-M and customer requirements

    • Evaluates progress on project and details changes

    • Responsible for all purchasing and subcontractor requirements

    • Responsible for development of costs and proposal of change orders to contract scope




EducationBS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering is preferred.


ExperienceThree to five years' experience in areas below:



  • An in-depth understanding of control systems, components, logic programming, experience with instrumentation and controls design and PLC systems (i.e. Allen Bradley, Schnieder Modicon, Siemens, GE-IP) required. Experience with AutoCAD is also desired

  • Strong inter-personnel skills. Ability to communicate and work with both team members, subcontractors and clients

  • Ability to travel up to 50%


Physical Demands of PositionSeeing, color perception, hearing, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, and ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling.


Working EnvironmentStandard office environment, diverse industrial environments, frequent PC usage, facsimile/copy machines, phones.


Wunderlich-Malec is proud to offer a comprehensive employee-owner benefit package. Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D, Long Term Disability, Voluntary Short Term Disability, Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Account, Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, Tuition Reimbursement, Referral Bonus Program, 401(k)/Profit Sharing, 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan), Employee Assistance Program, Will Preparation Resources, Worldwide Travel Assistance


#LI-Hybrid


#LI-WM1


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Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
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.

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