1

Engineering Tech Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Controls and Automation Engineer

Burlington, IA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

EDUCATION: • Associate's or Technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Controls, Industrial Technology, or a related field required. • Bachelor's degree in Electrical ...

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$68K - $87K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Engineering/Technology or relevant work experience Notes : This is a shop floor position so candidates must be comfortable in this environment 75% time spent on feet within the ...

New

Manufacturing Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Bachelor of Science in Engineering/Technology or relevant work experience By providing your phone number, you consent to: (1) receive automated text messages and calls from the Judge Group, Inc. and ...

Showing results 21-40

Engineering Tech information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$30

$50

How much do engineering tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for engineering tech in Iowa is $30.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.70 and $36.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an engineering tech?

Engineering Techs, or Engineering Technicians, are professionals who assist engineers in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining various products, equipment, or systems. They often work in fields such as manufacturing, electronics, civil engineering, or mechanical engineering. Their duties typically include preparing technical drawings, conducting experiments, collecting data, troubleshooting problems, and ensuring that projects meet quality and safety standards. Engineering Techs bridge the gap between theoretical engineering concepts and practical application in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an engineering tech, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineering Tech, you need a solid understanding of engineering principles, technical mathematics, and hands-on experience, usually backed by an associate degree or relevant certification. Familiarity with CAD software, measurement instruments, and industry-specific testing equipment is typically required. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure precise execution of engineering tasks, support innovation, and maintain project efficiency and safety.

What are some common challenges engineering techs face when working on cross-functional project teams?

Engineering Techs often collaborate with engineers, designers, and production staff, which can present challenges such as communicating technical details to non-technical team members and balancing multiple project priorities. Adapting to different workflows and ensuring that technical documentation aligns with the needs of each department are also common hurdles. Developing strong communication skills and being proactive in seeking clarification can help overcome these challenges and contribute to project success.

What is the difference between Engineering Tech vs Mechanical Technician?

AspectEngineering TechMechanical Technician
CredentialsAssociate degree or technical certificationAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, testing, and technical support in labs or officesMaintenance, repair, and installation in industrial or manufacturing settings
Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, R&DManufacturing plants, maintenance departments, industrial facilities
Common TasksAssisting engineers, preparing technical reports, testing prototypesTroubleshooting machinery, performing repairs, installing equipment

Engineering Tech and Mechanical Technician roles share similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but differ mainly in their work environments and daily tasks. Engineering Techs focus on supporting engineering projects and testing, while Mechanical Technicians handle hands-on maintenance and repairs. Both roles are vital in manufacturing and industrial sectors, often overlapping in skills but distinct in responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to Engineering Tech jobs in Iowa?

For Engineering Tech jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Engineering Tech jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Engineering Tech jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Engineering Tech job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,246 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Controls and Automation Engineer

Tenneco

Burlington, IA • On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Tenneco rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

343rd of 494 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Responsible for the development, implementation, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of industrial controls and automation systems throughout the Burlington manufacturing facility. This position works closely with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, Quality, and other plant functions to improve equipment reliability, productivity, safety, quality, and process capability. Responsibilities include PLC programming and troubleshooting, HMI and control system development, industrial automation, robotics, motion control, electrical controls, equipment integration, and supporting the installation and startup of new and modified production equipment.
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
The following pages describe the skills and requirements needed for the position.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Develop, modify, troubleshoot, and maintain PLC control systems used throughout the manufacturing facility.
• Program and support PLCs, HMIs, industrial computers, robotics, motion controls, and other automated equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical and controls-related problems to minimize equipment downtime and improve overall equipment effectiveness.
• Support the design, installation, programming, commissioning, and startup of new and modified automated production equipment.
• Develop and implement controls improvements to increase equipment reliability, productivity, quality, safety, and process capability.
• Provide technical support and training to electricians, maintenance personnel, and production team members on PLC, controls, automation, and electrical systems.
• Work closely with Maintenance and Engineering personnel to identify recurring equipment problems and develop permanent corrective actions.
• Support integration of robots, vision systems, sensors, drives, servo systems, safety circuits, and other automation technologies.
• Troubleshoot and modify electrical control circuitry, including AC/DC controls, motor controls, VFDs, sensors, relays, safety devices, and industrial communication systems.
• Develop, modify, and maintain PLC and HMI programs, control logic, and associated documentation.
• Support industrial communication networks and connectivity between PLCs, HMIs, robots, drives, and other production equipment.
• Lead or support capital projects involving automation, controls, electrical systems, and production equipment.
• Assist with equipment specifications, vendor selection, installation, commissioning, and acceptance of new automation and controls equipment.
• Maintain and update electrical schematics, PLC programs, HMI documentation, controls documentation, and other engineering records.
• Identify opportunities to automate manual processes and implement technology that improves manufacturing efficiency and consistency.
• Support plant scrap reduction, quality improvement, continuous improvement, and cost-reduction initiatives through automation and controls solutions.
• Work with production and maintenance teams to identify opportunities for data collection, process monitoring, and automated equipment diagnostics.
• Ensure controls and automation systems comply with applicable electrical, machine safety, and company standards.
• Follow all applicable safety requirements, including Lockout/Tagout, when working with electrical and automated equipment.
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of electrical and electronic theory, including AC/DC circuits, PLC logic, motor controls, solid-state devices, sensors, and industrial automation.
• Maintain a safe working environment and promote safe work practices throughout the facility.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
EDUCATION:
• Associate's or Technical degree in Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation, Controls, Industrial Technology, or a related field required.
• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, Automation Engineering, Controls Engineering, or a related field preferred.
EXPERIENCE:
CORE COMPETENCIES
WORKING CONDITIONS / JOB EXPECTATIONS:
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in industrial controls, automation, electrical engineering, manufacturing engineering, industrial maintenance, or a related field.
• PLC programming and troubleshooting experience required.
• Manufacturing or industrial automation experience preferred.
• Experience with robotics, HMI systems, VFDs, motion control, or industrial networking preferred.
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with the ability to diagnose complex electrical and controls problems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, control drawings, equipment manuals, and technical documentation.
• Ability to communicate effectively with electricians, maintenance personnel, operators, engineers, supervisors, and outside suppliers.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities while supporting day-to-day manufacturing needs.
• Strong commitment to safety, quality, continuous improvement, and equipment reliability.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a cross-functional team.
• Position requires regular presence in the manufacturing environment and interaction with production and maintenance personnel.
• May require work around operating machinery, electrical equipment, robotics, automated systems, and industrial processes.
• Occasional off-shift, weekend, or overtime support may be required for equipment startups, troubleshooting, or critical projects.
• Must follow all applicable company safety policies, electrical safety requirements, and Lockout/Tagout procedures.
• May require occasional travel to equipment suppliers, training locations, or other Tenneco facilities.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Drug Screen and background check required.

What Tenneco employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom