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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Basepoint Building Automations

Senior Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

We're growing and looking for a Senior Building Automation Engineer who enjoys solving complex ... If you're passionate about HVAC controls, building automation, and seeing your designs come to life ...

Rinvio

Process Control Engineer

Davenport, IA

$55 - $80/hr

... senior PLC/controls experience - Experience with PLC/HMI systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms - Strong understanding of instrumentation, controls networks, VFDs, I/O ...

Rinvio

Process Control Engineer

Iowa City, IA

$55 - $80/hr

... senior PLC/controls experience - Experience with PLC/HMI systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms - Strong understanding of instrumentation, controls networks, VFDs, I/O ...

Rinvio

Process Control Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$55 - $80/hr

... senior PLC/controls experience - Experience with PLC/HMI systems such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or comparable platforms - Strong understanding of instrumentation, controls networks, VFDs, I/O ...

Compressor Controls

Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Listed in order of relevance: - Provide O&G and Power Generation Controls ... Senior Engineer, as necessary, in order to perform pre-sale activities including, site surveys ...

B&G Foods, Inc.

Sr. Project Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

The Sr. Project Engineer will provide tactical leadership for process design, operations process controls, and process optimization. He/she shall identify and execute performance/process improvements ...

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All JobsControls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer JobsSenior Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Senior Controls Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$67.6K

$107.8K

$144.6K

How much do senior controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior controls engineer in Iowa is $107,757.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,100.00 and $120,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Senior Controls Engineers?

Senior Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and implement control systems for manufacturing processes, machinery, or automation equipment. They are responsible for programming controllers (such as PLCs), troubleshooting control system issues, and ensuring optimal system performance and safety. Senior Controls Engineers often lead project teams, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with other departments to integrate new technologies. Their expertise is crucial for streamlining production, reducing downtime, and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

What is the difference between Senior Controls Engineer vs Controls Engineer?

AspectSenior Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering, experience, possibly certifications like Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST)Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field, entry to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, troubleshooting, project leadership in industrial or manufacturing settingsImplementing control systems, programming, testing, and maintenance in similar environments
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control companiesSimilar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles within the same sectors

The main difference is experience level and responsibility. Senior Controls Engineers typically lead projects, design complex systems, and mentor junior staff, while Controls Engineers focus on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles require similar credentials and work in comparable environments, but the senior role involves more leadership and advanced technical skills.

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

To thrive as a Senior Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and several years of experience in industrial automation. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and knowledge of industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and excellent communication skills help distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex control systems, which are critical for operational safety, efficiency, and project success.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities a Senior Controls Engineer can expect to handle in a manufacturing environment?

As a Senior Controls Engineer in a manufacturing setting, you can expect to lead the design, programming, and troubleshooting of automation systems such as PLCs, HMIs, and SCADA. Your responsibilities often include overseeing control system upgrades, optimizing equipment for efficiency, and ensuring compliance with safety standards. You will regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams—including maintenance, production, and IT—to implement solutions and support continuous improvement initiatives. Managing complex projects and mentoring junior engineers are also common aspects of the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Controls Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Controls Engineer jobs in IA? For Senior Controls Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Senior Controls Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,757 per year, or $51.8 per hour.
HVAC Truck Based Senior Controls Technician

HVAC Truck Based Senior Controls Technician

Johnson Controls

Des Moines, IA

$29.50 - $39/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Johnson Controls rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 401 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 528 rated manufacturers

Job description

What you will do


Perform HVAC Control systems programming, troubleshooting, installation, commissioning and preventative maintenance as it is related to mechanical, electrical, and low voltage controls components.


Respond to service and warranty calls using Johnson Controls configuration and commissioning tools as well as a variety of hand tools including electrical testing meters and other electronic testing equipment.


Provide front line technical and repair support through effective communications with Johnson Controls customers.


Provide system repair and or update recommendations and assist in proposing of recommendations to Johnson Controls customers.


Be part of an expanding team of the best technicians in the industry while you build career with a first class global organization.
How you will do it

  • Loading Johnson Controls field and network level controller software.
  • Performing commissioning and system diagnostics for all levels of system controllers as well as end
  • devices (i.e. Sensors, actuators, etc.) and complete all required commissioning documentation.
  • Keeps management and JCI contractor or customer informed of job progress and issues.
  • Calibrates systems requiring basic electronic test equipment.
  • Completes administrative tasks including but not limited to time sheets, expense reports, and on-site documentation.
  • Documents changes and provides information for as-built documentation.
  • Execute company sponsored as well as personally initiated training to insure the highest level of knowledge and capability are maintained
  • Engage with customers to fully understand their systems and needs.
  • Communicates with the JCI contractor or customer upon arrival and before leaving the work site.
  • Follows all safety standards and attends required safety training. High degree of regard to employee and subcontractor safety.

What we look for

Required:

  • Strong understanding of HVAC systems, sequence and applications
  • Demonstrated technical aptitude in mechanical and electro-mechanical fields
  • Able to use hand, power tools and electrical testing equipment such as a multi meter.
  • Solid knowledge base in use of personal computers.
  • Attention to detail.
  • Good communication and listening skills.
  • (Depending on location, the mounting and termination of low voltage devices may have special licensing requirements.)

#LI-DR1 #LI-Onsite

Johnson Controls International plc. is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, protected veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a qualified individual with a disability or any other characteristic protected by law. To view more information about your equal opportunity and non-discrimination rights as a candidate, visit EEO is the Law. If you are an individual with a disability and you require an accommodation during the application process, please visit here.

What Johnson Controls employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About Johnson Controls

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Johnson Controls is a world leader in smart buildings, creating safe, healthy and sustainable spaces. For nearly 140 years, we’ve made buildings better and now we’re transforming them again with our award-winning digital technologies and services. We’re using artificial intelligence and data driven solutions to give you deeper insight into your building’s health, sustainability and performance. It’s changing the way we design, operate and maintain indoor environments and driving to a new era of autonomous buildings. We deliver the blueprint of the future for industries such as healthcare, schools, data centers, airports, stadiums, hotels, manufacturing and beyond through OpenBlue, our comprehensive suite of connected solutions. Johnson Controls offers the world’s largest portfolio of building technology, software and services. Supported by a team of more than 100,000 dedicated employees working across 150 countries, we’re helping customers achieve their sustainability goals and power their mission.

Industry

Machinery manufacturing, water transportation, public safety statistics centers and offices and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Milwaukee, WI, US

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