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Computer Engineer Jobs in Iowa City, IA (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: CAD Technician (Expert) Location: Muscatine Iowa 52761 Duration: 12 Months Work Type ... The Project Engineering Piping/Mechanical Designer is responsible for completion of piping design ...

Device Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering. * Development of Test cases and Test procedures execution. * Generation of Test results and reports for the execution. * Developing support ...

Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, relevant technical field, or equivalent practical experience. Degree must be completed ...

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Computer Engineer information

See Iowa City, IA salary details

$47.5K

$118.9K

$134.5K

How much do computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineer in Iowa City, IA is $118,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,100.00 and $128,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually, often with extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes in leadership roles or high-demand industries. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, with some professionals also earning through stock options or bonuses.

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

To thrive as a Computer Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and hardware/software design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C/C++ or Python), circuit design tools, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco are highly valuable. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure that computer engineers can design, implement, and optimize systems that meet technical requirements and business goals.

Are computer engineers highly paid?

Computer engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other professions, especially with experience, specialized skills, and certifications in areas like hardware design, software development, or network systems. Salary levels can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, but overall, the profession is considered well-compensated.

What is the difference between Computer Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco, CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; certifications like Microsoft, AWS
Work EnvironmentDesigning hardware, embedded systems, and software integration in labs or officesWriting, testing, and maintaining software applications in offices or remote setups
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunications, embedded systemsIT firms, software companies, startups, enterprise software development

Computer Engineers focus on both hardware and software systems, often working on embedded systems and hardware integration. Software Developers primarily create and maintain software applications. While their roles overlap in programming, Computer Engineers have a broader scope including hardware design, whereas Software Developers specialize in software solutions.

What jobs does a Computer Engineer do?

A Computer Engineer designs, develops, and tests computer hardware and software systems. They work on creating integrated circuits, embedded systems, and computer networks, often using programming languages and engineering principles. Their work may involve troubleshooting, system optimization, and collaborating with software developers and other engineers.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of high base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Such compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and work at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What Is a Computer Engineer?

A computer engineer designs, researches, tests, and develops computer equipment and software such as circuit boards, chips, routers, and application programs. Computer engineers analyze complex equipment and systems to understand the best way to improve it. They create new types of information technology devices and use logic and reasoning to hone in on goals, test assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. Engineers often work in teams and have to be able to communicate with other types of engineers, including non-technical team members. Computer engineers make sure that components fit together properly and function according to the latest software developments.

What are computer engineers?

Computer engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software systems. They work at the intersection of electrical engineering and computer science, focusing on how computer systems function and how they can be improved. Their roles can involve creating microprocessors, designing circuit boards, developing embedded systems, and optimizing software for hardware performance. Computer engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology across industries, from consumer electronics to aerospace and healthcare.

What are common challenges computer engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Computer engineers often collaborate with software developers, hardware designers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and communication styles. Ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of system limitations and integration points is crucial, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or rework. Staying adaptable and proactively clarifying expectations helps computer engineers navigate these collaborative environments successfully.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA? For Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineer jobs in Iowa City, IA are:
What cities near Iowa City, IA are hiring for Computer Engineer jobs? Cities near Iowa City, IA with the most Computer Engineer job openings:

Senior Embedded Systems Verification Engineer

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions, Inc.

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

We don't just build technology-we engineer the future. From next-gen aerospace to cutting-edge defense systems, we tackle the toughest, mission-critical challenges that keep people safe and push the limits of innovation. This is where problem-solvers, innovators, and big thinkers thrive. 

Quest Defense Systems & Solutions is seeking a Senior Systems Verification Engineer to support a mission-critical effort focused on advancing assured Positioning, Navigation, and Timing capabilities for military platforms. This role will focus on requirements management, systems verification, technical documentation, and test procedure development for complex embedded and mission-critical systems.

In this position, you will help ensure system requirements are clearly defined, properly traced, and fully verified across key engineering artifacts. You will work with Systems Verification Documents, Interface Control Documents, System/Subsystem Design Documents, and related technical documentation while partnering with cross-functional engineering teams to support system integrity, interface validation, and verification readiness.

The ideal candidate has strong experience working in Jama, understands requirements traceability, and can operate comfortably across systems, software, and hardware interfaces. This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys bringing structure to complex engineering programs, improving verification processes, and helping teams move from requirements through successful system validation.

This is an onsite position based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. U.S. citizenship is required.

This is a temporary hourly position with the potential for extension or conversion to a regular full-time salaried position based on business needs, performance, and available opportunities. Conversion is not guaranteed.

Key Responsibilities:   

  • Develop, update, and maintain systems engineering documentation, including Systems Verification Documents, Interface Control Documents, System/Subsystem Design Documents, and related technical artifacts.
  • Assess system requirements and maintain traceability across program artifacts using Jama.
  • Review requirements for clarity, completeness, testability, and alignment with verification objectives.
  • Develop, automate, and execute test procedures to validate system functionality, interfaces, and overall system integrity.
  • Support verification activities by analyzing test coverage, identifying gaps, and improving verification efficiency.
  • Support interface verification involving serial interfaces, digital I/O, and related system integrations.
  • Collaborate with systems, software, hardware, integration, and test teams to ensure requirements are properly documented, traced, validated, and verified.
  • Communicate verification status, risks, gaps, and technical findings to internal teams and program stakeholders.

Required Qualifications: 

  • U.S. citizenship is required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM field.
  • 7+ years of relevant experience in systems engineering, systems verification, requirements management, test engineering, or a related technical engineering role.
  • Strong experience with requirements management, traceability, and documentation using Jama.
  • Experience assessing, updating, and maintaining technical engineering artifacts such as requirements documents, verification documentation, ICDs, SSDDs, SVDs, or similar system-level documentation.
  • Experience developing, executing, or supporting test procedures for system verification and validation.
  • Familiarity with serial interfaces, digital I/O, interface integration, or related system communication protocols.
  • Ability to work onsite in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to collaborate across systems, software, hardware, integration, and test teams.

Preferred Qualifications: 

  • Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related STEM field.
  • Experience supporting defense, aerospace, avionics, navigation, or mission-critical systems.
  • Knowledge of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing - Distributed systems or related navigation/GPS technologies.
  • Experience with interface protocols such as MIL-STD-1553, I2C, serial interfaces, or related communication standards.
  • Experience with GUI tools or frameworks such as Qt, XAML, or similar technologies.
  • Experience with test automation, scripting, or process improvement to support system verification activities.
  • Familiarity with system integration, hardware/software interface verification, or lab-based test environments.
  • Experience working in structured requirements and verification environments with cross-functional engineering teams.

The QDSS Advantage:  

At QDSS, our advantage is purpose-driven work, collaborative teams, and complex challenges that push boundaries and build lasting impact. You'll grow your career while contributing to mission-critical programs that demand excellence and shape the future. 

What You'll Find Here 

  • Work That Matters - Next-generation, safety- and mission-critical projects where your contributions have real-world impact. 
  • Growth That's Supported - Competitive compensation, employer-matched 401(k), certification assistance, and clear opportunities for advancement. 
  • A Culture That Works - A flexible, collaborative, and people-first environment where teamwork, innovation, and balance are valued. 

Benefits Include 

  • Competitive pay, comprehensive medical/dental/life and disability coverage, 401(k) with employer match, professional development support, and a flexible, friendly workplace.