1

Sr Controls Engineer Jobs in Waterloo, IA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Controls Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Description The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget, schedule and ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget, schedule and ...

Senior Controls Engineer

Waverly, IA · On-site

$95 - $130/hr

Description The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget ...

Nuclear Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$97K - $116K/yr

... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

Nuclear Engineer

Independence, IA · On-site

$93K - $111K/yr

... controls; review designs and analyses from laboratories, shipyards, and industry partners ... with senior civilian engineers, naval officers, and technical teams; high expectations for ...

... Sr. Engineer, you will support automation and electrical systems at our Waterloo, Iowa ... Two+ years of experience troubleshooting automation and controls systems in a manufacturing ...

New

... Sr. Engineer, you will support automation and electrical systems at our Waterloo, Iowa ... Two+ years of experience troubleshooting automation and controls systems in a manufacturing ...

New

... Sr. Engineer, you will support automation and electrical systems at our Waterloo, Iowa ... Two+ years of experience troubleshooting automation and controls systems in a manufacturing ...

New

... Sr. Engineer, you will support automation and electrical systems at our Waterloo, Iowa ... Two+ years of experience troubleshooting automation and controls systems in a manufacturing ...

New

Sr Controls Engineer information

See Waterloo, IA salary details

$71K

$113.1K

$151.9K

How much do sr controls engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for sr controls engineer in Waterloo, IA is $113,124.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,600.00 and $126,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Sr Controls Engineer?

Sr Controls Engineers are experienced professionals who design, develop, and maintain control systems used in manufacturing, automation, or other industrial processes. They work with hardware and software to ensure machinery operates efficiently, safely, and according to specifications. Their responsibilities often include programming PLCs, troubleshooting system issues, leading projects, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. Senior-level controls engineers also mentor junior staff and contribute to the strategic improvement of automation processes.

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

To thrive as a Sr Controls Engineer, you need a strong background in electrical engineering, automation, and control systems design, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree and significant industry experience. Expertise in PLC programming, SCADA systems, HMI development, and familiarity with industry standards and certifications like ISA or PE is essential. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills set standout professionals apart in this role. These qualifications ensure effective system integration, reliable automation solutions, and successful collaboration on complex engineering projects.

What types of projects and cross-functional collaboration can a Sr Controls Engineer expect in this role?

As a Sr Controls Engineer, you will typically lead or contribute to projects involving the design, implementation, and optimization of automation systems. Collaboration is common with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical and electrical engineers, software developers, and operations personnel, to ensure seamless integration of control systems. You may also work closely with project managers and clients to define requirements, troubleshoot issues, and deliver solutions that align with production goals. This role often involves balancing technical problem-solving with strong communication skills to coordinate across departments.

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

AspectSr Controls EngineerControls Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related engineering; often 5+ years experience; certifications like PLC or automation certificationsBachelor's in relevant engineering; 1-3 years experience; similar certifications
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, manufacturing facilities, automation projectsSimilar industrial settings, project-based work, automation systems
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, automation, process control industriesManufacturing, industrial automation, equipment design

The main difference between a Sr Controls Engineer and a Controls Engineer lies in experience level, responsibilities, and expertise. Sr Controls Engineers typically have more years of experience, handle complex automation projects, and may mentor junior staff. Controls Engineers are often earlier in their careers, focusing on implementing and maintaining control systems. Both roles are vital in industrial automation and share similar work environments and industry applications.

What are popular job titles related to Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA?

For Sr Controls Engineer jobs in Waterloo, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sr Controls Engineer job openings in Waterloo, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,124 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Senior Controls Engineer

TDS Automation Inc

Waverly, IA • On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

The Senior Controls Engineer applies accepted electrical design standard operating procedures to assigned projects. Ensures all assigned sections of projects meet the proposed budget, schedule and technical objectives.


Essential Functions

  1. Endorses and adheres to sound business practices, ethical behavior, corporate and local policies, and applicable laws.
  2. Stays current concerning technological developments, design practices, and manufacturing.
  3. Assists Project Manager in developing machine control concepts and estimates,
  4. writing technical section of proposals and presentation of project concepts, project schedules, milestones and monitor detail design of a project.
  5. Assists Sales with selling the company's capabilities, review and update technical objectives of the project with Project Manager, salesperson, and clients.
  6. Provides electrical drawing package that electrically and logically interfaces electrical components,
  7. Performs electrical design calculations, specifies electrical control hardware that complies with the section's standard operating procedures, applies motion control hardware to system design.
  8. Utilizes AutoCAD drafting skills.
  9. Writes PLC, motion control, operator interface software to meet project requirements and provide checking function of an electrical print package and technical support to electrical designers.
  10. Monitors project for scope changes and report them to Project Manager.
  11. Assists with electrical fabrication coordination support as well as system development and installation support at the company's and the client's facility.
  12. May direct and train individuals from the same and other classifications.
  13. Effectively interact with managers, supervisors, and hourly team members across all departments.
  14. Must be willing to participate in specialized training as assigned by supervisory personnel.
  15. Understands and complies with requirements of the QMS, AS9100, and/or ISO 9000.
  16. Work additional hours as necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position and meet business needs. 
  17. Travel as required. 
  18. Perform additional duties as assigned.  

Requirements

  1. Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or similar technical field, or equivalent work experience and demonstrated technical capability.
  2. Minimum five (5) years of experience in designing machine controls.
  3. Demonstrated ability to program industrial control hardware, PLC's, motion control, operator interface terminals, and data acquisition equipment.
  4. Working knowledge of Windows-based personal computers and software.
  5. Must possess the ability to perform complex analysis, plan and perform a wide variety of duties, and have exceptional judgment with experience as a team leader.
  6. Good oral and written communication skills.
  7. Good organizational skills.
  8. Familiarization with NEC, JIC, and other accepted codes and practices.
  9. Exposure to accepted electrical fabrication practices.
  10. Experience with using AutoCAD for design work.
  11. Experience with Beckhoff software.
  12. Experience with AGVs, AMRs and traffic control systems.
  13. Must be able to meet security clearance requirements and pass background checks for access to secured customer facilities.


About TDS Automation, Inc.

TDS Automation, Inc., is a leading provider of global engineering and manufacturing solutions for Customers focusing on custom automation, forming and material handling. TDS Automation produces fully automated and semi-automated stand-alone equipment as well as fully integrated production lines to exacting specifications. Systems produced by TDS Automation can be found in nearly every modern manufacturing environment, inclusive of agricultural, pharmaceutical, transportation and construction material manufacturing. 


Benefits

  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Paid Holidays
  • Employer paid Life Insurance
  • Employer paid Short Term Disability
  • Employer paid Long Term Disability
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health insurance
  • Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • HSA Employer Match
  • Paid time off
  • Referral Program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance
  • Voluntary Life insurance

Schedule

  • 1st Shift
  • Day Shift


Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.


All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a background check, job-related physical examination (when required for the position) and pre-employment drug screening, in accordance with Company policy. A copy of the Company's Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Workplace Policy is available upon request.


Doerfer Companies is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to employees with sincerely held religious beliefs, in accordance with applicable law. If you require an accommodation to perform the essential functions of your position or during the application, interviewing, hiring or onboarding process, please contact Human Resources. The Company will engage in an interactive process to determine appropriate accommodations.


Doerfer Companies is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate against employees or applicants on the basis of an individual's race, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), color, religion, national origin, age, disability, military or veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.