Industrial Systems Automation Engineer

Industrial Systems Automation Engineer Job Description

We are seeking a Systems Automation Engineer who will be responsible for designing and developing PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems. The ideal candidate will collaborate with project teams to enhance delivery, quality, and cost efficiency while supporting sales efforts, ensuring contract compliance, and driving process improvements across engineering and field operations.

• Design and develop PLC, HMI, and SCADA-based control systems.
• Create sequences of operations, engineering drawings, and control submittals.
• Collaborate with project teams to improve delivery, quality, and cost efficiency.
• Support sales efforts through demonstrations, estimating, and proposals.
• Ensure compliance with contracts and identify additional opportunities.
• Drive process improvements across engineering and field operations.
• Participate in project turnover meetings and field coordination.
• Manage scope and contracts, collaborating with engineering, field technicians, and project managers.

• 5+ years of experience with PLC/HMI/SCADA programming and troubleshooting (Function Block, Structured Text, Rockwell, Schneider Electric).
• Experience in designing distributed control systems (DCS).
• Proficiency in creating sequences of operations and engineering drawings.
• Skill in using AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN for control documentation.
• Ability to prepare control submittals and bill of materials.
• Experience with Microsoft Products and Microsoft SQL or other database applications.
• Understanding of basic process controls (PID loops, motor control, commissioning digital/analog devices).

• Ability to work autonomously.
• Familiarity with AutoCAD Electric and PLC programming.

The role involves working in an office setting with extended periods of desk work involving computer-based tasks. There will be frequent visits to local construction job sites with significant client interaction, requiring 30–50% travel, however it is not expected to exceed 20% and will occur within weekdays with several months' notice. The company culture is family‑like, emphasizing integrity, collaboration, and growth opportunities.

Recognized as one of Iowa’s Top Workplaces for nine consecutive years, the company offers a competitive benefits package, ESOP, two retirement plans, and relocation incentives for Eastern Iowa.

This is a permanent position based out of Cedar Rapids, IA.

The pay range for this position is $83,000.00 – $ per year.

• ESOP, 401(k) through Principal
• Medical/Dental/Vision
• FSA, HSA
• Employee Assistance Program
• PTO starting at 3 weeks + 7 holidays

This is a fully onsite position in Cedar Rapids, IA.

This position is anticipated to close on Jan 21 2026.

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccom for other accommodation options.