Control Systems Specialist

Salary : $85,820.80 - $ Annually
Location : Water Works Park, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number:
Department: Water Production
Division: Control Systems
Opening Date: 03/17/2026

JOB SUMMARY
Why Work at Des Moines Water Works?
At Des Moines Water Works (DMWW), every employee plays a vital role in delivering Water You Can Trust for Life to over 600,000 central Iowans. We're looking for team members who are customer-focused and committed to our mission.

When you join DMWW, you become part of a team that values environmental stewardship-protecting our most essential natural resource: water. Just as importantly, we recognize that our people are our greatest asset. Your wellbeing matters to us-from physical and psychological safety to wellness, fitness, and professional growth, we're committed to supporting your health and development at work and beyond.
About the Position: Under the supervision of the Water Production Supervisor, the Control Systems Specialist installs, maintains, and troubleshoots automated control systems to ensure efficient, reliable operation of water production equipment. Responsibilities include working with computers, servers, software, and electro-mechanical systems to integrate sensors, actuators, PLCs, HMIs, and related devices. This role collaborates with maintenance, operations, engineering staff, and contractors to implement improvements to water treatment processes.
EXAMPLES OF ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Install, maintain, and monitor automation control systems, including OT Network infrastructure such as servers, routers, switches, firewalls, data radios and industrial components such as PLCs, HMIs, Telemetry, and SCADA systems.
• Install, maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot analytical instruments and associated equipment.
• Collaborate with maintenance, production, and engineering teams to design, integrate, and implement OT Network infrastructure and automation solutions for new and existing equipment.
• Diagnose and resolve issues with OT Network infrastructure, control systems, including electrical, mechanical, OT hardware and software components.
• Perform preventive and predictive maintenance on OT Network infrastructure, electrical, mechanical, and control systems to ensure optimal performance.
• Create, update, and maintain technical documentation, including schematics, wiring diagrams, manuals, control descriptions, and software programs.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards, policies, and regulatory requirements when working on water production systems.
• Provide technical training and support for operators and maintenance personnel.
• Participate in continuous improvement initiatives to enhance system performance and reliability.
• Complete required reports, daily logs, timesheets, and work orders accurately and on time.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:
Completion of a two-year accredited program in Robotics & Automation or a similar program in industrial automation/electronics.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience in industrial automation/electronics, including:
• Proven skills working with PLCs, HMIs, telemetry equipment, SCADA systems, and other automation technologies.
• Strong knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, such as schematics and wiring diagrams.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, to support production needs. (
• (Three additional years of related experience may be substituted for the required education).

Licenses/Certifications:

• Must possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record.

Age:
Minimum age of 21 years old preferred.
Candidates under 21 years old must have an acceptable driving record to be selected.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, and ABILITIES:

Knowledge Of:

• Medium voltage electrical systems.
• Recognized standards such as NEC, NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, and UL508A.

Skills:

• Proficient in Allen Bradley/Rockwell software applications.
• Proficient in AVEVA software applications.
• Proficient in AutoCAD computer-aided design applications.
• Proficient in using Microsoft Office products.
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills with the ability to exercise sound judgment.
• Basic verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic teamwork and customer service skills.

Abilities:

• Ability to read, write, communicate, and understand English effectively.
• Ability to interpret technical documentation and apply safety standards.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Occasionally handles up to 100 pounds and lifts up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally climbs ladders and works on catwalks.
• Occasionally works in confined spaces.
• Frequently walks, stands, balances, crawls, grasps, squats, bends, kneels, reaches above and below shoulder height, twists, and performs repetitive motions.
• Ability to differentiate machine operational sounds and vibrations.
• Ability to read gauges and distinguish colors.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Primarily works indoors.
• Occasional exposure to:
• Machine noise.
• Medium voltage power.
• Poor lighting and ventilation.
• Hazardous…