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Dairy Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls Technician

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$42.54/hr

DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream ... programming and troubleshooting o Controls systems troubleshooting o Network diagnostics ...

DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream ... programming and troubleshooting o Controls systems troubleshooting o Network diagnostics ...

DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream ... programming and troubleshooting o Controls systems troubleshooting o Network diagnostics ...

Controls Technician

Le Mars, IA · On-site

$42.54/hr

DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream ... programming and troubleshooting o Controls systems troubleshooting o Network diagnostics ...

Project Management and/or Process Engineering experience within the food, dairy, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or consumer products industry is a plus. * Strong leadership and technical skills. * Project ...

Project Management and/or Process Engineering experience within the food, dairy, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, or consumer products industry is a plus. * Strong leadership and technical skills. * Project ...

School Nutrition Team Lead Holy Family Catholic Schools 1 Positions ID: 93640 Posted On 07/29/2026 Job Overview Join Our Family. Find Your Calling. Holy Family Catholic Schools Food Service is ...

HR Receptionist Hirschbach Motor Lines, Inc. 1 Positions ID: 93475 Posted On 07/22/2026 Job Overview This individual provides essential front office administrative and operational support to the ...

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Dairy Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$43.7K

$137.9K

$163.4K

How much do dairy engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for dairy engineering in Iowa is $137,948.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,400.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by dairy engineers when implementing new processing technologies in a production facility?

Dairy engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new equipment into existing production lines, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety and quality standards, and minimizing downtime during installation. Collaboration with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, quality assurance, and production staff—is critical to address these challenges efficiently. Adapting to rapidly evolving technologies and balancing cost-effectiveness with innovation also requires strong problem-solving skills and continuous learning.

What is the difference between Dairy Engineering vs Dairy Technologist?

AspectDairy EngineeringDairy Technologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Dairy Engineering or related fieldDiploma or Bachelor's in Dairy Technology or Food Technology
Work EnvironmentDesigning dairy equipment, process optimization, plant layoutQuality control, processing, and production management
Industry UsageEngineering firms, dairy equipment manufacturing, plant designDairy processing plants, quality assurance labs

While both Dairy Engineering and Dairy Technologist roles are integral to the dairy industry, Dairy Engineering focuses on designing and optimizing dairy processing equipment and facilities, requiring engineering expertise. Dairy Technologists primarily handle processing, quality control, and product development, emphasizing technical knowledge of dairy products. Understanding these differences helps professionals choose the right career path or specialization within the dairy industry.

What is dairy engineering?

Dairy engineering is a specialized branch of engineering that focuses on the processing, production, and quality control of milk and dairy products. Dairy engineers design, develop, and maintain equipment and processes used in dairy plants to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality production. They also work on improving packaging, storage, and transportation methods to extend shelf life and meet health standards. This field combines aspects of chemical, mechanical, and food engineering to optimize dairy operations and support the dairy industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dairy engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dairy Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical, chemical, or process engineering, often with a bachelor’s degree in engineering and knowledge of dairy processing principles. Familiarity with industry-specific equipment, automation systems (like PLCs and SCADA), and relevant food safety certifications (such as HACCP) is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help in optimizing processes and collaborating with cross-functional teams. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure efficient, safe, and high-quality dairy production in a competitive industry.
What are popular job titles related to Dairy Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Dairy Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Dairy Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Dairy Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Dairy Engineering job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $137,948 per year, or $66.3 per hour.

Controls Technician

Guida's Dairy

Le Mars, IA • On-site

$42.54/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

JOB POSITION:

DFA/Kemps has an immediate job opening for a well-versed Controls Technician to perform an array of functions.

General Purpose:

Install, monitor, calibrate, and maintain the control systems of automated equipment using software to verify that the
controls are within set parameters. Troubleshoot issues and perform necessary maintenance and repair services. Work
with the maintenance team to aid in their technical development. Work with a limited degree of supervision, with
oversight focused on complex and/or new assignments. Act as an informal resource for colleagues with less experience.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Use a PC along with software programs to modify, troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair equipment breakdowns involving mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, and pneumatic components
Lay out circuits and install electrical wiring systems to handle required loads for various parts of the plant. Run lines, make connections, install proper safety devices, and provide for necessary outlets and switches
Perform calibrations on electrical, electronic equipment and instruments according to technical manuals and written instructions. Record results
Install and hook-up production equipment, exercising care as to size of motors, voltage requirements, and balance circuits for proper power distribution
Perform preventative / predictive maintenance and rebuild and replace defective parts and component units such as motors, gear boxes, clutches, bearings and electrical components as needed. Reassemble and make final equipment adjustments

Assist outside contractors on on-site projects
Demonstrate a cooperative effort to train and assist operators and peers in all aspects of equipment maintenance and operation, problem identification, and problem-solving
Participate in task meetings; suggest changes in work tasks and use of equipment to increase efficiencies
Maintain communication with other departments, management, and employees and notify them of any problems and/or concerns that may restrict the efficiency of production
Stay up to date on new products, equipment, technology and techniques
Maintain safe working conditions for employees and compliance with all state and federal regulations regarding health and safety issues
Follow all DFA good manufacturing practices (GMP) and work in a manner consistent with all corporate regulatory, food safety, quality, and sanitation requirements
The requirements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employee, but is not a complete list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required. Other duties may be assig

DFA/Kemps is a farmer-owned brand of Dairy Farmers of America (DFA), a dairy marketing cooperative owned by more than 12,500 family farmers.Our mark matters and it represents the wholesomeness of dairy that we share with our communities and loved ones. DFA manufactures a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, fluid milk, ice cream, dairy ingredients and more, under well-known and established regional brands. Our fingerprints touch thousands of brands across the marketplace, and we're passionate about delivering the simple pleasures of dairy to people everywhere, straight from our family farm-owners. At DFA/Kemps we are proud to provide families with fresh, delicious dairy.

By joining DFA, you can help us continue to make a difference that matters. We care deeply about the well-being of our neighbors and friends, and we celebrate the diversity of our company and our world. It takes an incredible team to deliver the goodness of dairy and enrich our communities - come join us!

OUR CONTROLS TECHNICIANS MAKE:

  • $42.54 per hour

SCHEDULE:Mon. - Fri. with flexible start times between 5-10 PM. Some weekend work required.

BENEFITS:

  • 401(k) with company contribution*
  • Competitive pay
  • Paid vacation and holidays*
  • Career growth opportunities - we promote from within!
  • Comprehensive healthcare benefits
  • Service recognition and employee rewards*
  • Employee referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement*
  • Uniforms provided
  • Work for dairy farm families

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

High school diploma or equivalent
Graduation from trade or technical school or technical school certification(s) preferred in areas such as electrical, industrial electronics, computer technology, or mechanical systems
2 to 4 years of directly relatable experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment
Experience in maintenance trades including electrical and mechanical troubleshooting, AC/DC drive systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, welding, machining and fabrication
Experience required in using multi-meters, circuit testers, and other test equipment along with power tools, micrometers, calipers, measuring tools, and other hand tools
Training or experience in the following areas, as appropriate for the job:
o PLC programming and troubleshooting
o VFD programming and troubleshooting
o Servo programming and troubleshooting
o Controls systems troubleshooting
o Network diagnostics troubleshooting (e.g., Ethernet, Control Net, Device Net)
o Electrical code knowledge
o HMI programming and troubleshooting (e.g., RSView, Wonderware, PanelView)
o PC/laptop/Servers and software programs
o Electrical distribution troubleshooting
o ACAD or job-specific software
Certification and/or License - may be required during course of employment

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED:

Knowledge of charts, tables, drawings, specifications, schedules, wiring diagrams
Strong mathematical skills
Able to interpret simple to complex blueprints and schematics
Able to adapt to emerging technologies
Able to inspect equipment, recognize potential problems, and take appropriate corrective action to prevent component failures or equipment down time
Able to perform maintenance activities/repairs independently and assist on more complicated repairs
Able to perform minor to mid-sized projects from planning to installation
Able to present options and ideas to current processes or procedures
Able to adapt and manage to change effectively
Able to perform task and duties without constant supervision
Able to work effectively in a team environment
Able to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing
Must be able to read, write and speak English

An Equal Opportunity Employer including Disabled/Veterans