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Senior Controls Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Understanding of basic process controls (i.e. PID control loops, motor control, commissioning of ...

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 ...

Sr. Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$92K - $127K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Senior Virtual Solutions Engineer supports both the sales process and customer ... controls, and investigating issues. * Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder while working in the ...

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Understanding of basic process controls (i.e. PID control loops, motor control, commissioning of ...

Senior Virtual Solutions Engineer

Davenport, IA · On-site

$92K - $127K/yr

The Senior Virtual Solutions Engineer supports both the sales process and customer project delivery ... controls, and investigating issues. * Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder while working in the ...

JOB SUMMARY The Senior Virtual Solutions Engineer supports both the sales process and customer ... controls, and investigating issues. * Occasionally ascends/descends a ladder while working in the ...

Senior Data Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Senior Data Engineer The Musco Information Technology team has an opening for a Senior Data ... access controls, including Row Level Security (RLS), and promoting adherence to organizational ...

Senior Data Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Senior Data Engineer The Musco Information Technology team has an opening for a Senior Data ... access controls, including Row Level Security (RLS), and promoting adherence to organizational ...

Senior Data Engineer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Senior Data Engineer The Musco Information Technology team has an opening for a Senior Data ... access controls, including Row Level Security (RLS), and promoting adherence to organizational ...

... Engineer The Senior Reliability Engineer serves as the technical anchor for reliability and ... Troubleshoot and improve automated systems including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and controls ...

... Engineer The Senior Reliability Engineer serves as the technical anchor for reliability and ... Troubleshoot and improve automated systems including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and controls ...

... Engineer The Senior Reliability Engineer serves as the technical anchor for reliability and ... Troubleshoot and improve automated systems including PLCs, HMIs, sensors, and controls ...

Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 9, 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 is a senior controls engineer?

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?

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 the typical responsibilities of a senior controls engineer 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 cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Controls Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Controls Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Controls Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,757 per year, or $51.8 per hour.

Sr. Automation Engineer

Baker Group

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

Senior Automation Engineer

Department: Automation

FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt


PURPOSE

The Senior Automation Engineer provides technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Manufacturing Control Systems. Maintain and grow the “Client for Life” concept for existing and new customers. Performs related work as required.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be constructed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

  • Start-up of Microprocessor based control components including PLC and DDC controllers, sensors, actuators, transducers, and associated components.
  • Point-to-point checkout of wiring and components for proper grounding, polarity, communication and power.
  • Set up and calibration of input and output devices such as temperature sensors, pressure transducers, etc.
  • Uploading, downloading, and modification of control software and programs.
  • IP network configurations to include Stratix and Cisco switch configurations, setting up IP addresses, subnet masks, MAC addresses and instance numbers.
  • Create and troubleshoot automation networks and communication protocols.
  • Identify and troubleshoot complex HVAC and Electrical automation systems including but not limited to psychometrics, refrigeration, building pressure controls, life safety systems, EPMS, steam heating, humidification and de-humidification, central heating and cooling systems, production lines, servos systems, robot cells, and other production environments.
  • Map control points into supervisory controller and add alarms and history extensions to supervisory controller points.
  • Map control points into the graphical front end and link points to graphics.
  • Create Automation System graphics and dashboards that tie into a SCADA system.
  • Understand construction and project schedules, and manage QA/QC checklists and commissioning logs
  • Interpret Sequence Of Operations (SOO) and apply to program logic.
  • Read and write code using IEC 61131-3 ladder logic, structured text, and function block programming.
  • Manage medium to large projects.
  • Lead, coach, mentor, train and delegate tasks to Automation Technicians and Automation Engineers
  • Assist with Tier III Business Development Pursuits.
  • Assist with the development of Core Process and Standards for the Automation Business Unit.
  • Travel to job sites is required

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in engineering related field or equivalent work experience
  • 7+ years of Automation related field and engineering experience
  • Knowledge of common Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, Outlook)
  • Knowledge of Microsoft SQL or other database applications preferred
  • Knowledge of Ethernet and serial network communication formats and hardware configurations
  • Understanding of basic process controls (i.e. PID control loops, motor control, commissioning of digital and analog measurement devices)
  • Knowledge of construction site safety and a high awareness of surroundings

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

  • Valid driver’s license


MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Ability to perform independently.
  • Strong interpersonal skills with effective verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to follow instructions and meet commitments.
  • Value and support company Core Focus and Values.
  • Demonstrated honesty, integrity, sound reasoning, good judgment and values. Lead by example, while maintaining strong internal and external relationships at all levels.
  • Prioritize and balance long-term goals with immediate tasks.
  • Ability to listen effectively, value other’s opinions of and acknowledge contributions.
  • Possess strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders, including our electrical team members and project managers.
  • Capability to collaborate efficiently with project team members to resolve issues in a timely manner.

ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift 75 pounds occasionally
  • May have occasional visits to a job site which would require periods of standing, walking and/or climbing stairs

EQUIPMENT/TOOLS

  • Laptop PC
  • Electronic Multimeter
  • Magnehelic
  • RS-485 and RS-232 Serial Adapters
  • Hand tools/Light power tools
  • Product Manufacturer Software
  • Ladders and Lifts
  • Oscilloscope
  • Wireshark
  • Procore, BIM 360, and other Construction Management Softwares
  • Computer systems: Windows, Linux, Command Line


Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.