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Robot Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

IPG Photonics is a global leader in advanced laser technology and robotic automation solutions ... As a pioneering developer and leading producer of fiber lasers and amplifiers, we are committed to ...

New

Controls Engineer

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$22.50 - $33/hr

This position supports innovative solutions such as robotic welding cells, advanced tooling and ... If you enjoy hands-on engineering, collaborative problem solving, and seeing complex systems come ...

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Understanding of control systems, hydraulics, powertrain systems, robotics, or vehicle dynamics. * Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles.

Project Scope and Brief Description: R&D Engineer working on Cyclops, Standalone scanner, NERO, future where we need to combine PLC with Epson robotics. Responsibilities: Software Design ...

Application Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

Collaborative Robotics * Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) * Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs ... Collaborate with Sales Engineers to respond to customer inquiries and provide timely, effective ...

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Robotics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

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Showing results 1-20

Robot Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$27.2K

$99.2K

$158.7K

How much do robot engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for robot engineer in Iowa is $99,191.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,400.00 and $119,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Robot Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, electronics, and computer programming, often supported by a degree in robotics, mechatronics, or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, robotic simulation tools, control systems, and certifications like ROS (Robot Operating System) proficiency are typically required. Creativity, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that distinguish top performers in this role. These skills and qualities are vital for designing, developing, and maintaining advanced robotic systems that meet technical and operational requirements.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior robotics engineers or specialized automation engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in programming, control systems, and AI, can earn $300,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and leadership responsibilities in industries like aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, managing large teams, or holding executive-level positions.

What is the difference between Robot Engineer vs Automation Technician?

AspectRobot EngineerAutomation Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in robotics, mechanical, electrical engineering or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's degree in automation, electronics, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, and testing robotic systems in labs or manufacturing settingsInstalling, maintaining, and troubleshooting automation equipment on factory floors
Industry UsageUsed by companies developing advanced robotic solutions and automation systemsCommon in manufacturing plants for process automation and equipment upkeep

Robot Engineers focus on designing and developing robotic systems, requiring advanced engineering skills. Automation Technicians handle installation and maintenance of automation equipment, often with hands-on technical work. Both roles are vital in automation industries but differ in responsibilities and required education.

How does a Robot Engineer typically collaborate with other departments during a project?

Robot Engineers often work closely with cross-functional teams, including software developers, electrical engineers, and project managers, to ensure that robotic systems meet both technical and operational requirements. Effective collaboration involves regular meetings to align on design specifications, troubleshooting sessions to resolve integration challenges, and ongoing communication to incorporate feedback from end-users or manufacturing teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure the successful deployment and maintenance of complex robotic solutions.

What does a Robot Engineer do?

A Robot Engineer designs, builds, tests, and maintains robots and robotic systems. They work on both the hardware and software aspects, ensuring robots can perform specific tasks efficiently and safely. Robot Engineers often collaborate with other engineers and specialists to create automated solutions for industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Their responsibilities may also include programming robots, troubleshooting technical issues, and researching new robotic technologies.

What is the salary of a robot engineer?

The average salary of a robot engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced engineers with specialized skills in automation and programming can earn higher salaries.

What work does a Robotics Engineer do?

A Robotics Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains robotic systems and automation solutions. They work with sensors, actuators, and control systems, often using programming languages like C++ or Python, and may require knowledge of mechanical and electrical engineering. Their work typically involves CAD design, system integration, and troubleshooting in manufacturing, healthcare, or research environments.
What are popular job titles related to Robot Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Robot Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Robot Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Robot Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Robot Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,191 per year, or $47.7 per hour.
Industrial Automation Service Engineer

Industrial Automation Service Engineer

Dee Zee

Pleasant Hill, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 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 continuous improvement of process control and robotic equipment. Perform updates modifications, expertise and skills in the design, fabrication, tryout, troubleshooting, and maintenance of electrical controls and circuits for the safe and efficient operation of plant manufacturing processes and welding controls, automation devices, poka-yoke concepts and techniques. Interact with all levels on the operation team. Maintain and revise Electrical and Pneumatic schematics to match continued changes with Automation Equipment. 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
  • Study blueprints, schematics, manuals, or other specifications to determine installation procedures
  • Set up and test industrial equipment to ensure proper operation
  • Troubleshoot, repair, adjust, or calibrate industrial machines
  • Calibrate test 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
  • 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 PLCs and other industrial devices and controls
  • Program robot for series of manipulator moves manually or by electronic instruction to a microprocessor or by setting up and adjusting sequence by hand-held teach pendant.
  • Design, program, and troubleshoot PLC, industrial control systems and relay control circuits to include panel layouts, wiring diagrams and interfaces
  • Make a majority of program decisions
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Ability to stop the production line and/or prevent shipment of products due to non-conformance or potential non-conformance products to our customers
  • Support the environmental policy with proactive process implementation, improvement suggestions, reducing waste, and acting on environment performance results and findings

  • SKILLS & ABILITIES
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Familiarity with industrial control systems and/or robotic systems
  • Knowledge of electronics
  • Knowledge of pneumatics and mechanical assembly preferred
  • Familiarization with safety standards and risk assessment procedures is required
  • Knowledge of Fanuc robots, programming, and interfacing with them
  • Entry level - Advanced PLC programming knowledge
  • Experience with Studio5000 is required; experience with other PLC's is a plus
  • Ability to program in ladder logic is required
  • Ability to utilize AOI's and UDT's is required
  • Knowledge of control circuits and systems is required
  • Experience with specifying, integrating, programming, tuning, and/or commissioning different electric motor VFD and/or servo control systems
  • Understands the basics of motion control (PID loop tuning, etc.)
  • Programming knowledge in at least one high-level language is a plus

Examples being: Java, C++, .NET, Visual Basic, Python, etc.
  • Understands Ethernet networking concepts, ie: addressing, packets, etc.
  • Knowledge of factory communications such as Modbus, Industrial Ethernet, DeviceNet, ControlNet, and Profibus in a plus
  • Flat Bed Laser Trouble Shooting and Programming Experience
  • Exhibit strong multi-tasking skill set to support simultaneous on-going engineering and company projects
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with an emphasis on the ability to organize
  • Ability to work with minimal supervision
  • Hands-On Engineer
  • Be able to troubleshoot using a meter/scope/PC to trace a problem.
  • Familiarity with the following standards is a plus: NFPA70 (NEC), NFPA 70E (Standard of Electrical Safety), NFPA 79 (Electrical Standard for Industrial Machinery), ANSI/RIA R15.06 (Robot Safety)

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or Computer Engineering/Computer Science preferred
Experience: Two to four years related experience preferred
Computer Skills: Must demonstrate computer literacy; Experience with CAD software and Studio 5000 preferred
Certificates & Licenses:
Other Requirements: Ability to maintain a flexible schedule to support 2nd and 3rd shifts as required
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Physical Demands
Lift/Carry
Stand
F (Frequently)
Walk
F (Frequently)
Sit
F (Frequently)
Handling / Fingering
F (Frequently)
Reach Outward
F (Frequently)
Reach Above Shoulder
F (Frequently)
Climb
O (Occasionally)
Crawl
O (Occasionally)
Squat or Kneel
F (Frequently)
Bend
F (Frequently)
10 lbs or less
O (Occasionally)
11-20 lbs
O (Occasionally)
21-50 lbs
O (Occasionally)
51-100 lbs
O (Occasionally)
Over 100 lbs
N (Not Applicable)
Push/Pull
12 lbs or less
O (Occasionally)
13-25 lbs
O (Occasionally)
26-40 lbs
O (Occasionally)
41-100 lbs
O (Occasionally)
N (Not Applicable) Activity is not applicable to this occupation.
O (Occasionally) Occupation requires this activity up to 33% of the time (0 - 2.5+ hrs/day)
F (Frequently) Occupation requires this activity from 33% - 66% of the time (2.5 - 5.5+ hrs/day)
C (Constantly) Occupation requires this activity more than 66% of the time (5.5+ hrs/day)
Other Physical Requirements
Sense of Touch
Ability to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (Safety Glasses)
The Company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the Company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the Company may deem appropriate. Travel between Dee Zee Metro locations may be necessary and will vary based on production needs. A valid Driver's License will be required for such travel.