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Engineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will work closely with engineering, product management, and development teams to enhance operator interfaces, displays, controls, and in-cab systems. You will apply user-centered ...

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Experience with embedded software development or controls integration. * Knowledge of hydraulic ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

RFA Engineering

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 ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$70K - $110K/yr

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 ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available that require use of C, C++, Python or Simulink MBSD programming languages. Testing methods include bench testing ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

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 ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

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 ...

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$80K - $130K/yr

In this role, you will work closely with engineering, product management, and development teams to enhance operator interfaces, displays, controls, and in-cab systems. You will apply user-centered ...

Andersen Corporation

Associate Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$62K - $94K/yr

The Associate Electrical Engineer supports manufacturing operations by applying electrical ... Technical Aptitude (Electrical & Controls) * Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis * Continuous ...

Andersen

Associate Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$62K - $94K/yr

The Associate Electrical Engineer supports manufacturing operations by applying electrical ... Technical Aptitude (Electrical & Controls) * Troubleshooting & Root Cause Analysis * Continuous ...

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All JobsEngineer Controls Engineer JobsEngineer Controls Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA

Engineer Controls Engineer information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$51.9K

$91.1K

$123.5K

How much do engineer controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineer controls engineer in Dubuque, IA is $91,067.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,700.00 and $101,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, and industry certifications such as ISA or Siemens are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set top professionals apart in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable automation solutions in complex industrial environments.

What are some common challenges Controls Engineers face when working on automation projects?

Controls Engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating new automation technologies with existing systems, troubleshooting complex hardware and software issues, and ensuring that all control systems meet safety and regulatory requirements. Effective communication with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers—is essential to resolve technical problems efficiently. Additionally, staying updated with rapidly evolving industry standards and technologies is crucial for long-term success in this role.

What is the difference between Engineer Controls Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectControls EngineerElectrical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or Controls Engineering; certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferred
Work EnvironmentIndustrial settings, manufacturing plants, automation facilitiesPower plants, electronics, telecommunications, industrial facilities
Industry UsageAutomation, manufacturing, process controlPower systems, electronics, telecommunications

Controls Engineers focus on designing, developing, and maintaining control systems for automation and manufacturing processes, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems, power distribution, and electronic devices. Both roles require similar credentials and often overlap in industrial environments, but their primary responsibilities and areas of expertise differ.

What are Controls Engineers?

Controls Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain systems used to control machinery and processes in industries such as manufacturing, automotive, and energy. They work with hardware and software to ensure automated systems operate efficiently, safely, and reliably. Controls Engineers often program PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), develop control algorithms, and troubleshoot automation issues. Their work is critical in optimizing production processes and integrating new technologies within industrial environments.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior controls engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation and control systems, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE), can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-paying roles are often found in industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, where complex systems and advanced technical expertise are required.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior control engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in automation, and advanced certifications, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High-paying roles often involve leadership responsibilities, working in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or large manufacturing, and may require expertise in PLCs, SCADA systems, and programming languages such as Python or C++.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced control engineers, especially those in senior leadership roles or working in specialized industries like aerospace or oil and gas, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually. Such roles often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What exactly does a controls engineer do?

A controls engineer designs, develops, and maintains control systems that automate machinery and processes. They work with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and software to ensure systems operate efficiently and safely, often collaborating with electrical and mechanical teams. Skills in troubleshooting, programming, and understanding system integration are essential in this role.
What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Engineer Controls Engineer jobs? Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Engineer Controls Engineer job openings:
Engineer Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Engineer Controls Engineer job openings in Dubuque, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,067 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

UX Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 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 a growth-oriented 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.
UX Engineer
UX Engineer will support the development and improvement of operator experiences for off-highway equipment. In this role, you will work closely with engineering, product management, and development teams to enhance operator interfaces, displays, controls, and in-cab systems. You will apply user-centered design, human factors, and ergonomics principles to ensure products deliver intuitive, efficient, and engaging user experiences.
Responsibilities
  • Apply usability, human factors, and ergonomic principles to influence the design and development of operator stations, displays, controls, and user interfaces.
  • Support the development of user-centered requirements for operator-facing systems and machine features.
  • Evaluate and improve the user experience of control interfaces, displays, infotainment systems, and other operator interactions.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute validation activities to assess usability, functionality, and operator satisfaction.
  • Collaborate with product management, engineering, software development, and other stakeholders throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Translate customer and operator needs into actionable design recommendations and product requirements.
  • Support the development and adoption of display strategies and operator interface standards across multiple machine platforms.
  • Conduct user research, usability assessments, and workflow evaluations to identify opportunities for improvement.
  • Utilize UX metrics, customer feedback, and validation results to influence product decisions and enhance user experiences.
  • Create and communicate user flows, prototypes, storyboards, and other UX artifacts to support design and development efforts.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of UX processes, tools, and best practices.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Factors, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, or a related technical field; equivalent experience will also be considered.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience applying User-Centered Design (UCD) principles to complex product or interface development challenges.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience working with cross-functional teams including engineering, software development, product management, and business stakeholders.
  • Experience participating in technology and product development processes from concept through validation.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills with the ability to guide teams through user-centered design methodologies.
  • Ability to analyze user needs and translate findings into product requirements and design recommendations.
  • Experience planning and executing validation activities for hardware, software, or integrated systems.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with design collaboration and prototyping tools such as Figma or Sketch.
  • Experience working with construction, agriculture, off-highway, or heavy equipment products.
  • Knowledge of human factors engineering, ergonomics, operator environments, and machine controls.
  • Experience using UX metrics, customer research, and usability testing to influence product development decisions.
  • Experience creating user flows, storyboards, prototypes, and other UX deliverables to support design validation.
  • Familiarity with operator displays, machine controls, HMI systems, or embedded user interfaces.
  • Demonstrated ability to balance user needs, technical requirements, and business objectives in product development.

Portfolio Requirement
A portfolio demonstrating the ability to design intuitive user experiences, create task flows, develop wireframes and prototypes, and deliver polished user interface solutions is required as part of the application process. Portfolio submissions may be provided as a website URL or attachment.
Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $80,000-$130,000 - 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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • 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.

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