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Scada Programmer Salary Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer - SCADA

Nevada, IA · On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Step into leadership as a Senior SCADA Engineer at Qualus, where innovation meets expertise. In ... The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors ...

... SCADA devices. All work must follow established policies and procedures, with safety as a top ... Paid parental leave at 100% of salary * Paid Time Off and Company Holidays * Early access to earned ...

... SCADA devices. All work must follow established policies and procedures, with safety as a top ... Paid parental leave at 100% of salary * Paid Time Off and Company Holidays * Early access to earned ...

Foundry Maintenance Manager

Fairfield, IA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Coordinate with production and engineering teams to ensure equipment availability and operational ... Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA systems, and industrial automation. Compensation & Benefits * Salary:

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Scada Programmer Salary information

What is the average salary of a SCADA programmer?

The average salary of a SCADA Programmer in the United States typically ranges from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level SCADA Programmers may start at around $60,000, while those with several years of experience or specialized skills can earn upwards of $120,000. Salaries can also be influenced by certifications, the complexity of projects, and the size of the employer. Additionally, some SCADA Programmers may receive bonuses or overtime pay depending on project demands.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a SCADA programmer?

To thrive as a SCADA Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, electrical engineering, or automation, with expertise in programming languages such as PLC, HMI, and SCADA software platforms. Familiarity with industrial protocols (like Modbus or OPC), experience using SCADA systems (such as Wonderware or Ignition), and relevant certifications (e.g., Siemens or Rockwell Automation) are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help SCADA Programmers excel in troubleshooting and collaborating across teams. These combined skills ensure reliable and efficient automation systems that are critical for industrial operations.

What are some typical challenges faced by SCADA programmers in their daily work?

SCADA Programmers often encounter challenges such as integrating legacy systems with modern technologies, ensuring system reliability and uptime, and maintaining cybersecurity standards. They may also need to troubleshoot unexpected issues in real-time environments, which requires strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure. Additionally, collaborating with engineers, technicians, and IT professionals is essential to ensure the SCADA system meets operational requirements and remains scalable.

What is the difference between Scada Programmer Salary vs Automation Engineer Salary?

AspectScada Programmer SalaryAutomation Engineer Salary
Average Annual Salary$70,000 - $90,000$75,000 - $95,000
Required CertificationsPLC, SCADA, HMI programming certificationsPLC, control systems, and automation certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilitiesFactories, process industries, automation projects
Industry UsageHeavy industry, utilities, manufacturingManufacturing, process control, energy sectors

While both roles involve automation and control systems, Scada Programmers focus specifically on developing and maintaining SCADA systems, whereas Automation Engineers have a broader scope including designing and optimizing entire automation processes. Salaries are comparable, but the specific job functions and certifications differ slightly.

Is SCADA in demand?

SCADA programmers are in demand due to the increasing need for automation and control systems in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and utilities. Skills in PLC programming, network security, and familiarity with SCADA software like Wonderware or Ignition enhance job prospects, which are expected to grow as infrastructure modernization continues.

What job categories do people searching Scada Programmer Salary jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Scada Programmer Salary jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Scada Programmer Salary job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution.

Senior Engineer - SCADA

Qualus Corporation

Nevada, IA • On-site

$120 - $150/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Qualus rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 451 rated engineering


Job description

Position Overview

Power your Future as a Senior SCADA Engineer with QUALUS! Step into leadership as a Senior SCADA Engineer at Qualus, where innovation meets expertise. In this pivotal role, you'll plan, direct, and implement advanced SCADA systems that drive operational efficiency across critical utility facilities. Join us in shaping the future of energy, water, and industrial automation by applying your skills to complex, impactful projects. If you're ready to lead and make a difference, Qualus is the place for you.

Responsibilities
  • Plan, organize, and direct engineering studies to determine SCADA system requirements.
  • Design and prepare technical specifications for complex SCADA control systems, emphasizing distribution operations.
  • Evaluate process computer systems and recommend software modifications.
  • Develop operational logic and oversee the programming of process computers.
  • Conduct engineering analysis of field test data and plant operations for compliance.
  • Lead the design and configuration of SCADA systems for transitioning to Advanced Distribution Management Systems (ADMS).**
  • Develop mapping and device building for analog points, status updates, and virtual controls within distribution systems.**
  • Respond to emergency RT SCADA requests from Operations and support Work Order requests from technicians and stakeholders.**
  • Coordinate testing and commissioning of distribution devices such as RTUs, line reclosers, capacitor banks, and transformers.**
  • Prepare and review operational and maintenance manuals, procedures, and training programs.
  • Simulate operations malfunctions and recommend necessary program modifications.
  • Review and estimate costs for control systems and instrumentation equipment.
  • Prepare technical reports, system analyses, and project correspondence.
  • Lead troubleshooting and diagnostics for SCADA systems and communication devices.
  • Integrate SCADA systems with historians like OSI PI and AVEVA.
  • Create or modify PLC programs using Structured Text, Function Block Diagrams, and Ladder Logic.
  • Configure and troubleshoot industry-standard communication protocols (i.e., Modbus, DNP3, OPC UA).
  • Ensure compliance with NERC CIP-004 standards, including periodic background checks.
  • Collaborate with clients, vendors, and field technicians to ensure project success.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field (or equivalent experience).
  • 8-10 years of professional SCADA engineering experience, including leadership roles.
  • Must be a US Citizen or possess a valid Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) to be considered.

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Benefits & Compensation

Qualus benefits offered include Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short and Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays, for those who qualify.

The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The salary range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Company Overview

Qualus is a leading pure-play power solutions firm and innovator at the forefront of power infrastructure transformation, with differentiated capabilities across grid modernization, resiliency, security, and sustainability. The firm partners with utilities, commercial, industrial, data center, and government clients, and renewable and energy storage developers, offering comprehensive solutions through boutique and integrated advisory, planning, engineering, digital solutions, program management, energy efficiency and specialized field services. Qualus also provides software and technology enabled services and develops breakthrough solutions for critical power industry challenges such as distributed and variable resource integration, emergency management, and secure data exchange. The firm has over 2,000 professionals, with offices throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We are committed to providing an inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on any grounds protected by applicable human rights legislation across Canada and the US.

We are committed to a secure and transparent hiring process. We do not request payment or sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers or banking details, during the application process. Please use caution and verify opportunities through our official channels.

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