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Senior Controller Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Start-up of Microprocessor based control components including PLC and DDC controllers, sensors ...

Creating a well-controlled platform for growth and increased regulatory requirements through the ... As a Senior Associate, you'll work as part of a team of problem solvers, helping to solve complex ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Controller information

See Iowa salary details

$52.1K

$125.5K

$201.9K

How much do senior controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controller in Iowa is $125,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,300.00 and $144,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a senior controller make?

A senior controller typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the industry, company size, and experience level. In California, salaries tend to be higher due to the cost of living and demand for financial leadership roles.

How does a senior controller typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

A Senior Controller works closely with various departments such as operations, sales, and human resources to ensure financial policies are aligned with organizational goals. They often lead budgeting processes, provide financial insights for strategic decision-making, and support managers in understanding financial reports. Regular cross-departmental meetings and presentations are common, allowing the Senior Controller to facilitate communication and ensure compliance with financial procedures across the business. This collaboration is essential for driving financial performance and supporting growth initiatives.

Is a senior controller a high level position?

A senior controller is a high-level financial management position responsible for overseeing accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls. It typically requires extensive experience, leadership skills, and often a CPA or similar certification, reflecting its seniority within an organization.

What does a senior controller do?

A senior controller is responsible for overseeing an organization’s financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls. They analyze financial data, ensure compliance with accounting standards, and often manage accounting teams using tools like ERP systems. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and relevant certifications such as CPA or CMA.

What is a senior controller?

A Senior Controller is a high-level finance professional responsible for overseeing an organization's accounting operations, financial reporting, budgeting, and internal controls. They manage accounting teams, ensure compliance with regulations, and provide strategic financial guidance to support business decision-making. Senior Controllers often collaborate with executives and department heads to analyze financial data and contribute to long-term planning. Their role is critical in maintaining the financial health and integrity of the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior controller?

To thrive as a Senior Controller, you need advanced expertise in accounting principles, financial reporting, and budget management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in accounting or finance and a CPA or CMA certification. Proficiency with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle, financial modeling tools, and spreadsheet software is essential. Exceptional analytical thinking, leadership, and effective communication help drive team performance and strategic decision-making. These skills ensure accurate financial oversight, regulatory compliance, and the ability to guide organizations toward their financial goals.

What is the difference between Senior Controller vs Financial Analyst?

AspectSenior ControllerFinancial Analyst
Required CredentialsCPA or CMA often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Finance, Accounting, or related field
Work EnvironmentFinance department, senior management levelFinance or investment teams, reporting to managers
Employer & Industry UsageCorporate finance, manufacturing, large organizationsBanking, investment firms, corporate finance
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Senior Controller and a Financial Analyst lies in their responsibilities and experience level. Senior Controllers oversee financial reporting, compliance, and internal controls, often holding leadership roles. Financial Analysts focus on data analysis, budgeting, and forecasting to support decision-making. While both roles require strong financial credentials, the Senior Controller's role is more managerial and strategic, whereas the Financial Analyst's role is more analytical and operational.

What are the most commonly searched types of Controller jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Controller jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Controller jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Controller job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controller jobs in IA? For Senior Controller jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Senior Controller job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,476 per year, or $60.3 per hour.

Automation Controls Engineer - Senior Level

Esco Group

Marion, IA • On-site

$103K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Senior Automation Controls Engineer
Division: ESCO Automation
Location: Marion, Iowa
Reports to: Team 53 - Client Success Manager
Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt
Status: Full-Time
Typical Working Hours: 7:30am to 4:30pm
May be required to work extended hours including holidays and weekends due to the 24 hours, 7 days a week, 365 days a year type of service ESCO provides its clients.
ESCO Group's vision is to be a leader in our marketplace as valued by our key stakeholders: our clients, employees, suppliers, community, and shareholders.
The position of Senior Automation Controls Engineer II will be a part of ESCO Groups' Automation Team and will be responsible for being a leading Senior resource for automation projects.
OBJECTIVES YOU WILL MEET
As the Senior Automation Controls Engineer, you will be responsible for providing technical services alongside a highly technical team. Objectives include:
  • Expertise programming and configuring programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and human-machine interface (HMI) systems to control and monitor industrial processes.
    • Strong working knowledge of Allen-Bradley platforms (RSLogix5, RSLogix500, Studio5000, FactoryTalk View ME) and Aveva (Wonderware) InTouch is preferred.
  • Understanding of industrial controls networks.
  • Ability to read existing programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and generate a Controls Narrative.
  • Break down project scope into manageable tasks and effectively delegate work across the team.
  • Design, implement, and support automation solutions to improve performance and reliability.
  • Interpret P&IDs and convert to functional control logic based on process narratives.
  • Lead programming, testing, and commissioning activities for projects of varying complexity.
  • Develop and maintain PLC/HMI standards, objects, and reusable components.
  • Provide technical support during commissioning and post-project phases.
  • Perform delegated programming tasks according to process narrative and/or client specifications.
  • Lead internal and external acceptance testing processes with ownership of project deliverables.

HOW YOU'LL MEET THOSE OBJECTIVES
  • Represent ESCO Group as a technical and project management resource for clients to communicate project status, answer questions, and coordinate work.
  • Continuously improve programming skills by staying updated with the latest advancements in PLC, HMI, and data collection technology.
  • Effectively communicate programming vision and provide tools to other team members to ensure accurate, timely completion of project deliverables.
  • Communicate at all technical levels and coordinate directly with subcontractors, contractors, and clients as project work requires.
  • Create a structured approach to troubleshooting including diagnosing issues, analyzing root causes, and implementing effective resolutions.
  • Obtain a deeper understanding of various automation components, protocols, and systems used in the industry.
  • Strong collaboration and mentoring capabilities with Senior, Level II, and Level I resources.
  • Be motivated and self-directed in the completion of project tasks.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Travel to client sites and perform physical duties to implement, test, and commission automation systems.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR
We welcome and embrace a host of different backgrounds, perspectives, and approaches to work. We also understand the importance of being transparent with our expectations. We do not expect candidates to "check-the-box" on all below:
  • Resourceful and show a high level of initiative. You are eager to learn and pursue opportunities to gain more knowledge of your role and the roles of your peers. Knowledge is a journey you love to undertake. This includes technical knowledge and betterment of soft skills.
  • Adaptable and flexible. The one constant in our industry is change. This includes changing timelines, changing industry requirements, and changing resource needs.
  • Time management and organization. You will often work on multiple projects simultaneously, balancing priorities and meeting deadlines. You have excellent time management and organizational skills to efficiently plan and execute tasks, ensuring timely project delivery.
  • Analytical Thinking. You will need to be able to analyze data, identify patterns, and evaluate system performance. You possess strong analytical skills to troubleshoot issues, optimize processes, and make data-driven decisions to improve system efficiency.
  • Problem-solving mindset. You will encounter various challenges and issues during the design, implementation, and maintenance of automation systems. You have a proactive and solution-oriented mindset, seeking innovative approaches to solve problems and overcome obstacles.
  • Professionalism and Integrity. You conduct yourself with professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic. You demonstrate reliability, accountability, and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.

HOW WE INVEST IN YOU
  • Your Health: We offer a comprehensive health insurance package, annual biometric screenings, employee assistance program (EAP), and company-paid disability insurance for eligible employees.
  • Your Financial Goals: Beyond our 401k offering, you may be eligible to join our ESOP with its tax-deferred retirement benefits.
  • Your Ownership: You don't just work FOR the company; you OWN the company. You'll join other employee-owners along our ESOP journey and receive the intangible and tangible benefits that ownership provides.
  • Your Work-Life Balance: We offer paid time off, flexible scheduling, parental leave, hybrid work (depending on position), and encourage our Employee Owners to give back to their communities.
  • Your Career Development: We offer tuition assistance and have a dedicated Learning and Development program to grow and develop you in your career.

Travel Required:
Accommodate up to 25% of overnight travel for services at out-of-town client facilities. The amount of travel is largely dependent upon project scope, schedule, and assigned tasks.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl; and talk or
  • The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50
  • Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust
  • Physical activity such as climbing up and down stairs (may be several flights) and/or ladders, and walking long distances while carrying equipment.

Work Environment:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently exposed to moving mechanical parts, risk of electrical shock, and
  • The employee is occasionally exposed to wet and/or humid conditions; high, precarious places; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; outside weather conditions; extreme cold; and extreme heat.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate, but may be exposed to very loud

**All necessary personal protective equipment is provided to meet and in some instances exceed OSHA Regulations.