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Senior Protocol Engineer 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 ... Create and troubleshoot automation networks and communication protocols. * Identify and ...

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Senior Protocol Engineer information

How does a senior protocol engineer collaborate with cross-functional teams during the protocol development lifecycle?

As a Senior Protocol Engineer, collaboration with cross-functional teams is essential throughout the protocol development lifecycle. You will work closely with product managers to understand requirements, coordinate with security engineers to ensure protocol robustness, and partner with frontend/backend engineers to support implementation. Regular communication, code reviews, and design discussions are common, as you’ll often serve as a technical lead, guiding architecture decisions and ensuring alignment across teams. This collaborative approach helps ensure the protocol meets both technical and business objectives while maintaining high standards for security and performance.

What does a senior protocol engineer do?

A Senior Protocol Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing communication protocols that enable secure and efficient data exchange over networks or within distributed systems. They work on developing new protocols or improving existing ones, often focusing on areas like blockchain, networking, or cryptography. Their role involves collaborating with cross-functional teams, troubleshooting protocol-related issues, and ensuring that protocols are robust, scalable, and secure. Additionally, they may mentor junior engineers and contribute to open-source projects or standards bodies.

What is the difference between Senior Protocol Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSenior Protocol EngineerNetwork Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science or related, certifications like CCNP, CCIEBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like CCNA, CCNP
Work EnvironmentDesigning, analyzing, and optimizing network protocols, often in R&D or specialized teamsManaging and maintaining network infrastructure, troubleshooting connectivity issues
Industry UsageTelecommunications, data centers, networking hardware companiesIT departments, service providers, enterprise networks

The Senior Protocol Engineer focuses on developing and optimizing network protocols, requiring deep technical expertise. In contrast, a Network Engineer manages and maintains network infrastructure, ensuring connectivity and performance. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in related environments, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a senior protocol engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Protocol Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of network protocols, distributed systems, cryptography, and strong programming skills, typically backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with protocol design tools, languages like Rust, Go, or C++, and experience with blockchain frameworks or RFC standards are often required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills help in leading teams and navigating complex technical challenges. These abilities are crucial for designing secure, efficient protocols and ensuring reliable communication within advanced technology ecosystems.
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Protocol Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Senior Protocol Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Sr. Industrial Automation Engineer

Baker Group

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

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 clients. 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 as 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.