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Plant Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Complete hands-on testing for new process changes From a Plant Process Engineer: I enjoy the constant problem solving and the drive toward innovation that keeps things exciting. I have had jobs in ...

Plant Manager

Tipton, IA · On-site

$140K - $165K/yr

Plant Manager Summary As the Plant Manager, you will lead the overall performance and continued ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or related field (or equivalent ...

Showing results 41-60

Plant Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$39K

$93.8K

$134.3K

How much do plant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 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.
What are popular job titles related to Plant Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Plant Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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.

Technology Engineer - Cedar Rapids, IA

ADM

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$76K - $142K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


ADM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 185 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

76th of 360 rated logistics


Job description

Job Description Technology Engineer - Cedar Rapids, IAPosition Summary:The Technology Engineer will apply engineering principles to new and existing facilities with tasks ranging from process design to the evaluation/implementation of new technologies. The primary purpose of the position is to ensure plant process systems are designed, built, operated, and maintained at optimal levels.Essential Job Functions:Display a dedication to lead, develop and support safety and promote a safety culture. Promote continuous process safety improvement.Benchmark the location versus internal and external best available technologies and drive improvements.Manage and prioritize the Wave portfolio in cooperation with the Plant Manager or Focused improvement pillar and/or the Regional Director of Technology, where applicable.Develop and maintain a 5-year project portfolio to include capital budgeting, execution and to strike a balance between NDE and productivity/growth.Collaborate with the appropriate COE's to ensure alignment of technology.Explore, propose and/or champion new process technologies and equipment suppliers.Work within the Global Technology Center to standardize operations, share standard methodologies and implement new technologies.Assist plant operations in solving applicable technical problems.Support the facility in setting up goals.Work closely with company subject matter experts on the implementation of innovative approaches to plant operation and maintenance.Act as a resource for plant process engineers through coaching, mentoring, and conducting training sessions.Required Skills:Dedication to working safely and to the awareness for the safety of others.Strong knowledge of a variety of process unit operations. Some examples include: distillation, evaporation, reactors and dryers.Experience with optimization/analytical processes and tools.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for working with plant engineers and management.Working knowledge of common process drawings and documentation, such as P&IDs and control narratives.Willingness to spend time in plant areas - tolerate extreme temperatures, walk long distances, stand, climb stairs and ladders and move through close spaces.Ability to work effectively on a team as well as independently while traveling to remote plant locations.High level of motivation and results-oriented way of working.Required Education:Bachelor's Degree in the fields of Chemistry, Food Processing, Production Manufacturing, Engineering, Technology, or other related field.Required Experience:Minimum 5 years' experience with plant process systems.Desired Experience:Operations supervision and/or Process/Project Engineer.Excited about this role but don't think you meet every requirement listed? We encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this role or another one of our openings.ADM requires the successful completion of a background check. 'AJCIND' REF:107668BR Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. If hired, employees will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. The pay range for this position is expected to be between: $76,100.00 - $142,700.00 Salaried Incentive PlanThe total compensation package for this position will also include annual bonus Benefits and Perks Enriching the quality of life for the world begins by taking care of our colleagues. In addition to competitive pay, we support your diverse needs with a comprehensive total rewards package to enhance your well-being, including: Physical wellness - medical/Rx, dental, vision and on-site wellness center access or gym reimbursement (as applicable). Financial wellness - flexible spending accounts, health savings account, 401(k) with matching contributions and cash balance plan, discounted employee stock purchasing program, life insurance, disability, workers' compensation, legal assistance, identity theft protection. Mental and social wellness - Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Colleague Giving Programs (ADM Cares). Additional benefits include: Paid time off including paid holidays. Adoption assistance and paid maternity and parental leave. Tuition assistance. Company-sponsored training and development resources, such as LinkedIn Learning, language training and mentoring programs. *Benefits may vary for bargained locations, confirm benefit eligibility with your recruiter. #IncludingYouDiversity, equity, inclusion and belonging are cornerstones of ADM's efforts to continue innovating, driving growth, and delivering outstanding performance. We are committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce and create welcoming, truly inclusive work environments - environments that enable every ADM colleague to feel comfortable on the job, make meaningful contributions to our success, and grow their career. We respect and value the unique backgrounds and experiences that each person can bring to ADM because we know that diversity of perspectives makes us better, together.We welcome everyone to apply. We are committed to ensuring all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, ethnicity, disability, religion, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, sexual orientation, age, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law About ADM At ADM, we unlock the power of nature to provide access to nutrition worldwide. With industry-advancing innovations, a complete portfolio of ingredients and solutions to meet any taste, and a commitment to sustainability, we give customers an edge in solving the nutritional challenges of today and tomorrow. We're a global leader in human and animal nutrition and the world's premier agricultural origination and processing company. Our breadth, depth, insights, facilities and logistical expertise give us unparalleled capabilities to meet needs for food, beverages, health and wellness, and more. From the seed of the idea to the outcome of the solution, we enrich the quality of life the world over. Learn more at www.adm.com.

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