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Plant Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mintex Technology

Assistant Plant Engineer

Denison, IA · On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Assistant Plant Engineer * Location : Denison, Iowa * Duration : Full Time / Permanent * Salary up to $115,000 - $140,000 About the Opportunity * We are recruiting for an Assistant Plant Engineer to ...

Poet

Plant Engineer

Hanlontown, IA · On-site

The Plant Engineer increases efficiencies of plant operations, maintains plant run time, implements system improvements, troubleshoots process problems, and considers cost factors. This is an on-site ...

POET LLC

Plant Engineer

Hanlontown, IA · On-site

The Plant Engineer increases efficiencies of plant operations, maintains plant run time, implements system improvements, troubleshoots process problems, and considers cost factors. This is an on-site ...

JBS USA

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA

Plant Engineer Location: Council Bluffs, IA Purpose & Scope: JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seeking a valuable Plant Engineer to join our Maintenance & Engineering team ...

JBS USA

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

Plant Engineer Location: Council Bluffs, IA Purpose & Scope: JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seeking a valuable Plant Engineer to join our Maintenance & Engineering team ...

JBS USA

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA

Plant Engineer Location: Council Bluffs, IA Purpose & Scope: JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seeking a valuable Plant Engineer to join our Maintenance & Engineering team ...

JBS USA

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA

Plant Engineer Location: Council Bluffs, IA Purpose & Scope: JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seeking a valuable Plant Engineer to join our Maintenance & Engineering team ...

JBS Imports

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

Plant Engineer Location: Council Bluffs, IA Purpose & Scope: JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seeking a valuable Plant Engineer to join our Maintenance & Engineering team ...

JBS USA

PLANT ENGINEER

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

Plant Engineer Location:Council Bluffs, IAPurpose & Scope:JBS USA, the World's leading protein producer, is currently seekingavaluablePlant Engineerto join ourMaintenance & Engineeringteam inCouncil ...

Ethos

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Senior Plant Engineer You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and more, driving our plant to ...

Ethos

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Senior Plant Engineer You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and more, driving our plant to ...

Ethos

Senior Plant Engineer

Mason City, IA · On-site

$88K - $121K/yr

Senior Plant Engineer You'll lead the charge in developing and implementing cutting-edge maintenance systems, including Preventative and Predictive Maintenance, TPM, and more, driving our plant to ...

State of Iowa

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA

$49K - $64K/yr

The Power Plant Engineer 3 diagnoses problems relating to equipment malfunctions, makes mechanical, electrical, and plumbing repairs to power plant equipment and auxiliary systems, and operates and ...

State of Iowa

Boiler Operator

Mount Pleasant, IA

$49K - $64K/yr

We are looking for a Power Plant Engineer 3 (Boiler Operator) to join our Power Plant team. Opening is for a 4 day-10-hour shift position working 8pm-6am, Thursday and Friday nights and 12pm-10pm ...

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All JobsPlant Engineer JobsPlant Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Plant Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$93.8K

$134.3K

How much do plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for plant engineer in Iowa is $93,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,700.00 and $112,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plant engineer?

A Plant Engineer is a professional responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and improvement of manufacturing or industrial plants. They work to ensure that all plant systems, equipment, and processes run efficiently, safely, and in compliance with regulations. Plant Engineers often handle troubleshooting, project management, and the implementation of new technologies to increase productivity. Their role may also involve supervising maintenance staff and coordinating with other departments to optimize plant performance.

What is the difference between Plant Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPlant EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in engineering, certifications like PE or EIT often preferredBachelor's in mechanical engineering, PE license optional
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, power plantsDesign firms, manufacturing, R&D labs, industrial settings
Industry UsageCommonly employed in manufacturing, energy, and processing industriesUsed across various sectors including automotive, aerospace, and energy

While both roles require engineering knowledge, Plant Engineers focus on maintaining and improving plant operations, whereas Mechanical Engineers often work on designing and developing mechanical systems. The roles overlap in credentials and industry settings, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are some common challenges a plant engineer faces during equipment upgrades or maintenance shutdowns?

Plant Engineers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple departments to minimize production downtime, managing tight project schedules, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations during equipment upgrades or maintenance shutdowns. Effective communication and planning are crucial, as these projects often require collaboration with outside contractors, vendors, and internal teams. Additionally, Plant Engineers must anticipate potential technical issues and ensure that all work is completed within budget and to specification.

What does a plant engineer do?

As a production plant engineer, you work in a manufacturing facility to ensure that daily operations run smoothly, with a focus on the equipment and machinery. Your responsibilities include designing new systems or equipment, directing plant personnel in proper methods and procedures of these systems and equipment, and executing or overseeing preventive maintenance and repair. Additional job duties may involve planning and supervising engineering projects, designing manufacturing equipment layouts, and checking for safety and environmental compliance. The main qualification for a career in plant engineering is a bachelor’s degree in industrial design or a sub-specialty of engineering, such as chemical, mechanical, nuclear, or electrical engineering. Professional certification, like the certified plant engineer (CPE) designation from the Association for Facilities Engineering (AFE) prove your skills, and employers may prefer these qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Plant Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or electrical engineering, problem-solving abilities, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PLC systems, and compliance with industry standards or certifications like PE (Professional Engineer) is typically expected. Strong communication, project management, and teamwork skills help you excel in coordinating with maintenance teams and other departments. These skills ensure efficient plant operations, reduced downtime, and the successful implementation of engineering solutions.
More about Plant Engineer jobs
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What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineer jobs in IA? For Plant Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Plant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plant Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $93,807 per year, or $45.1 per hour.

Assistant Plant Engineer

Mintex Technology

Denison, IA • On-site

$115K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

  • Position: Assistant Plant Engineer
  • Location: Denison, Iowa
  • Duration: Full Time / Permanent
  • Salary up to $115,000 – $140,000

 

About the Opportunity

  • We are recruiting for an Assistant Plant Engineer to support maintenance and engineering operations in a high-volume food manufacturing environment.
  • This role focuses on maximizing equipment reliability, minimizing downtime, and driving continuous improvement across plant operations.

Position Overview

  • The Assistant Plant Engineer will lead maintenance initiatives, support capital projects, and drive operational efficiency.
  • This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong technical expertise and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead capital project development and execution
  • Manage maintenance operations to minimize downtime
  • Implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs
  • Drive TPM and continuous improvement initiatives
  • Oversee maintenance team performance and scheduling
  • Ensure compliance with safety, food safety, and environmental standards
  • Develop KPIs and track maintenance performance
  • Collaborate with plant leadership on operational improvements
  • Coach and develop maintenance team members

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field
  • 5+ years in manufacturing environment
  • 2+ years leadership experience
  • PLC and ammonia refrigeration experience (required)
  • Food manufacturing experience required
  • Strong knowledge of maintenance systems and CMMS
  • Experience with TPM, preventive/predictive maintenance
  • Strong problem-solving and communication skills

Preferred Experience

  • Meat processing or kill floor / harvest floor experience
  • Experience in high-volume production environments
  • Strong change management experience