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Entry Level Process Control Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA

Dee Zee

Automation Technician, 3rd Shift

Des Moines, IA

$41K/yr

Perform installation of process control and robotic equipment. Perform update modifications ... Associate's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering Mechanical Engineering or ...

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

... continuously improve processes across: * Inbound material inspection and quality control ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

... continuously improve processes across: * Inbound material inspection and quality control ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA

... continuously improve processes across: * Inbound material inspection and quality control ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Project Engineer I: * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers ... Now involved in more detailed processes directly related to project execution, including budgeting ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Project Engineer I: Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. Offers information ... Now involved in more detailed processes directly related to project execution, including budgeting ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Industrial

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... control provisions, coordinating work sequencing, issuing purchase orders, procurement, change ... Utilize company standard documents including but not limited to business development processes, pre ...

McGough Construction

Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

PROJECT ENGINEER The Project Engineer position is an entry-level position in the project management ... Draft and process Requests for Information (RFI) * Review and process shop drawings/submittals

Actalent

Quality Control Technician

Boone, IA

$19 - $20/hr

Monitor the flow of product through the production process and identify any irregularities or ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

Actalent

Quality Control Technician

Boone, IA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Monitor the flow of product through the production process and identify any irregularities or ... About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$73K - $99.60K/yr

... control provisions, coordinating work sequencing, issuing purchase orders, procurement, change ... processes, pre-proposal checklists, turnovers, subcontracts, purchase orders, warranty, etc. • ...

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All JobsEntry Level Process Control Engineer JobsEntry Level Process Control Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA

Entry Level Process Control Engineer information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$49.2K

$92.5K

$137.8K

How much do entry level process control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level process control engineer in Ankeny, IA is $92,548.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,800.00 and $109,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Process Control Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Process Control Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, electrical, or mechanical engineering, typically with a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with distributed control systems (DCS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and process simulation software is essential, and certifications like ISA CAP can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with cross-functional teams and troubleshoot process issues. These skills ensure efficient and safe operation of industrial processes, driving productivity and minimizing errors.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level process control engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level process control engineers often encounter challenges such as learning complex automation systems, adapting to fast-paced industrial environments, and effectively troubleshooting equipment or software issues. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the need to quickly understand process flows, instrumentation, and control strategies. To overcome these hurdles, new engineers should actively seek mentorship from experienced colleagues, participate in hands-on training, and stay updated with best practices in process automation. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as the role frequently involves collaborating with operators, maintenance teams, and other engineers to ensure smooth operations.

What does an Entry Level Process Control Engineer do?

An Entry Level Process Control Engineer is responsible for assisting in the design, implementation, and optimization of control systems used in manufacturing and production processes. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to monitor system performance, troubleshoot issues, and support process improvements. Their work helps ensure that production runs efficiently, safely, and within quality standards. Typical duties may include configuring control hardware and software, collecting and analyzing process data, and collaborating with other engineering teams.

What is the difference between Entry Level Process Control Engineer vs Process Technician?

AspectEntry Level Process Control EngineerProcess Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering or related field; some certifications beneficialAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, programming, and troubleshooting control systems in industrial settingsOperating, maintaining, and troubleshooting equipment on the plant floor
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, chemical, oil & gas industriesManufacturing plants, refineries, chemical facilities

Entry Level Process Control Engineers focus on designing and optimizing control systems, while Process Technicians handle daily equipment operation and troubleshooting. Both roles are essential in industrial settings, but they differ in responsibilities and required education.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Process Control Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA? For Entry Level Process Control Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Entry Level Process Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Process Control Engineer job openings in Ankeny, IA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,548 per year, or $44.5 per hour.
Industrial Automation Technician 2, 1st shift

Industrial Automation Technician 2, 1st shift

Dee Zee

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$41K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Dee Zee rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY - Responsible for set-up and maintenance of all electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and mechanical systems on equipment used in the production process. Perform installation of process control and robotic equipment. Perform update modifications, preventative maintenance, and periodic performance checks. Maintain service records of the control devices and automated equipment, repairing when needed. Interact with all levels on the operational team. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals to perform the essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT - Must be willing and able to work in an environment exposed to elements that can include but are not limited to coolant, dust, mist, elevated noise, and uncontrolled temperatures.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
  • Perform modification of existing PLC and robot programs
  • Examine work orders and converse with equipment operators to detect equipment problems and to ascertain whether mechanical or human errors contributed to the problems
  • Study blueprints, schematics, manuals, or other specifications to determine installation procedures
  • Set up and test industrial equipment to ensure that it functions properly
  • Troubleshoot, repair, adjust, or calibrate industrial machines
  • Maintain equipment logs that record performance problems, repairs, calibrations, or tests
  • Calibrate testing instruments and installed or repaired equipment to prescribed specifications
  • Coordinate efforts with other workers involved in installing or maintaining equipment or components
  • Advise management regarding customer satisfaction, product performance, or suggestions for product improvements
  • Perform scheduled preventive maintenance tasks, such as checking, cleaning, or repairing equipment to detect and prevent problems
  • Test faulty equipment to diagnose malfunctions, using test equipment or software, and applying knowledge of the functional operation of electronic units and systems
  • Inspect components of industrial equipment for accurate assembly and installation or for defects, such as loose connections or frayed wires
  • Apply creative skills with related knowledge in electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, and the ability to install, program, troubleshoot, circuitry, control systems, and machinery
  • Perform testing, start-up, and complex troubleshooting of PLC and industrial control systems
  • Program robot for series of manipulator moves manually or by electronic instruction to a microprocessor or by setting up and adjusting sequence by hand-help teach pendant
  • Design, program, & troubleshoot PLC, industrial control systems and relay control circuits to include panel layouts, wiring diagrams, and interfaces
  • Make majority of program decisions
  • Ability to stop the production line and/or prevent shipment of products due to nonconformance or potential nonconformance products to our customers

SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Familiarity with industrial control systems and/or robotic control systems
  • Knowledge of electronics
  • Knowledge of pneumatics and mechanical assembly preferred
  • Machining experience preferred

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Associate's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering Mechanical Engineering or Robotics technology preferred
Experience: Two to four years related experience preferred
Computer Skills: Must demonstrate computer literacy; Proficient using Microsoft Office; Experience in PLC and HMI programming

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