Advanced Controls Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering is seeking a C++ Embedded Software Developer to support the development of precision agriculture technology for off-highway equipment. This role involves designing, coding, and testing embedded software using modern C++ for control systems, sensor integration, and real-time applications. The ideal candidate will have experience with embedded systems, communication protocols, and work closely with cross-functional teams to bring advanced ag-tech solutions to market.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and test embedded software components using C++ for agricultural control systems and sensor interfaces.

• Work closely with systems engineering to define software requirements and architecture.

• Integrate software on real-time operating systems (RTOS) and bare-metal environments for 32-bit microcontrollers and embedded Linux platforms.

• Implement CAN-based communication protocols (e.g., J1939, ISO 11783) for tractor and implement control.

• Conduct unit testing, system integration, and validation on bench and field equipment.

• Participate in code reviews, documentation, and software lifecycle planning in compliance with internal quality standards.

• Troubleshoot hardware/software integration issues in lab and field environments.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers, controls engineers, test engineers, and product managers.

Requirements

• B.S. or M.S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field.

• 2+ years of experience developing embedded software using modern C++.

• Proficiency in embedded software development for microcontroller- or processor-based systems.

• Experience with CAN, SPI, I2C, and UART communication protocols.

• Familiarity with real-time operating systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) or embedded Linux.

• Experience with version control tools such as Git.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in agriculture, off-highway equipment, or automotive embedded systems.

• Familiarity with ISOBUS or J1939 communication protocol

• Experience working in Agile development environments.

• Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing frameworks.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position

Pay Range: $75,000-$120,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

• Health and Dental Insurance
• TelaDoc Healthiest You
• Supplemental Vision Insurance
• Company Paid Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Short-term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• HSA for Medical Expenses
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

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