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Defense Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

PDS Tech Commercial

Software Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$90.67/hr

Software Engineer (Embedded Linux) Engineer the Future of Defense and Aerospace Technology PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aviation industry to hire a Senior Software Engineer ...

RTX

Co-Op, Software Engineer- Onsite

Cedar Rapids, IA

$171K - $203K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Software Engineer in this organization, you will be involved in the development of state-of-the-art software systems to support our ...

New

RTX

Co-Op, Software Engineer- Onsite

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$171K - $203K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Software Engineer in this organization, you will be involved in the development of state-of-the-art software systems to support our ...

New

RTX

$169K - $200K/yr

Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense. Software Engineer in this organization, you will be involved in the development of state-of-the-art software systems to support our ...

New

RTX

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by ... We are looking for an entry level Engineer, disciplined in Software Engineering to join our TCMA ...

RTX

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by ... We are looking for an entry level Engineer, disciplined in Software Engineering to join our TCMA ...

RTX

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by ... We are looking for an entry level Engineer, disciplined in Software Engineering to join our TCMA ...

RTX

Software Engineer I (Onsite)

Cedar Rapids, IA

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by ... We are looking for an entry level Engineer, disciplined in Software Engineering to join our TCMA ...

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Defense Software Engineer information

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$59.6K

$138.6K

$193K

How much do defense software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for defense software engineer in Iowa is $138,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,700.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a defense software engineer?

A Defense Software Engineer develops, tests, and maintains software for military and defense applications. They work on secure, mission-critical systems such as weapons control, cybersecurity, and communication networks. Their role requires proficiency in programming languages, security protocols, and compliance with defense standards. Due to the nature of the industry, security clearances and adherence to classified information policies are often required.

What types of projects and technologies do defense software engineers typically work on?

Defense Software Engineers often work on projects involving the development and maintenance of software for military systems, such as radar, communications, simulation, or weapons control platforms. They frequently use technologies like embedded systems, secure coding practices, and specialized hardware interfaces. Project work can range from upgrading legacy systems to designing cutting-edge capabilities, often requiring adherence to rigorous security and compliance protocols. Collaboration with systems engineers, hardware teams, and government stakeholders is typical, offering a dynamic and mission-driven work environment. This exposure helps engineers build specialized expertise while contributing directly to national security initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the defense software engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Defense Software Engineer, you need expertise in software development, a strong grasp of cybersecurity principles, and familiarity with defense industry standards, typically demonstrated by a degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Experience with programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python, knowledge of real-time operating systems, and certifications like Security+ or CISSP are often required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies ensure that complex, secure, and mission-critical software solutions are effectively developed and maintained to meet stringent defense requirements.

What are popular job titles related to Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Defense Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Defense Software Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Defense Software Engineer job openings:

Defense Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Defense Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,564 per year, or $66.6 per hour.

Software Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

PDS Tech Commercial
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 5 - 10K employees
Learn more about PDS Tech Commercialexternal

$90.67/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Software Engineer (Embedded Linux)
Engineer the Future of Defense and Aerospace Technology
PDS Tech Commercial is partnering with a leader in the aviation industry to hire a Senior Software Engineer specializing in Embedded Linux in Cedar Rapids, IA. If you're passionate about low-level software development, Linux board support packages, device drivers, and solving complex hardware-software integration challenges, this is your opportunity to work on advanced mission systems that support the next generation of aerospace and defense innovation.
Location: Cedar Rapids, IA
Job Type: Full-Time Consultant (12-Month Assignment)
Schedule: Monday-Friday | First Shift | 6:00 AM-2:30 PM
Pay Rate: $90.67 per hour
Build Software That Powers Mission-Critical Aerospace Systems
As a Software Engineer, you'll join a highly innovative engineering team developing cutting-edge embedded Linux solutions for advanced aerospace and defense applications. Your expertise will help deliver reliable, high-performance software that supports sophisticated mission systems and emerging technologies.
This role offers the opportunity to work across the entire software lifecycle, from architecture and development to testing, integration, and ongoing support.
What You'll Do
In this role, you will:
  • Design, develop, test, and support embedded Linux software solutions for advanced aerospace applications
  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of:
    • Board Support Packages (BSPs)
    • Linux kernels
    • Device drivers
    • Bootloaders
    • Root filesystems
    • Build toolchains
  • Support board bring-up and hardware integration activities across a variety of target platforms
  • Participate in Agile ceremonies, sprint planning, and technical collaboration sessions
  • Conduct root cause analysis and troubleshoot complex hardware-software integration issues
  • Utilize debugging tools, hardware schematics, logic analyzers, and network analysis tools to resolve technical problems
  • Manage development tasks, issue tracking, and change requests through Jira
  • Ensure compliance with engineering development standards, quality processes, and best practices
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative solutions on demanding project schedules
  • Support ongoing software maintenance, enhancements, and optimization efforts
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM), or related field and 5+ years of relevant experience
    • OR an advanced degree with 3+ years of relevant experience
    • OR 9+ years of relevant experience in lieu of a degree
  • Minimum of 3 years of professional experience developing embedded Linux device drivers
  • Strong proficiency with Embedded C/C++
  • Experience with scripting languages, including:
    • Bash
    • Python
  • Experience with board bring-up and target hardware integration
  • Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills
  • Experience performing root cause investigations involving hardware and software interactions
  • Ability to utilize hardware schematics and debugging tools such as:
    • Logic analyzers
    • Wireshark
  • Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with Git and SVN version control systems
  • Experience building and packaging Linux distributions using Buildroot
  • Knowledge of Agile software development methodologies
  • Experience working within DevSecOps environments
  • Background supporting aerospace, defense, mission systems, or embedded systems development
  • Strong collaboration and cross-functional teamwork skills
  • Experience working on complex software systems in highly regulated industries
Why Join Us?
At PDS Tech Commercial, we connect talented engineers with industry-leading organizations that are redefining what's possible in aerospace and defense. This opportunity places you at the forefront of emerging technologies where your work will directly influence the development of sophisticated mission-critical systems.
What You'll Gain
  • Competitive pay at $90.67 per hour
  • Opportunity to work on advanced aerospace and defense technologies
  • Exposure to cutting-edge embedded Linux development projects
  • Collaborative environment with highly skilled engineering professionals
  • Hands-on experience with next-generation mission systems
  • Professional growth through technically challenging work
  • A culture that values innovation, technical excellence, and continuous learning
  • The ability to make a meaningful impact on products that support critical aerospace missions
Ready to Build the Systems Behind the Mission?
If you're an experienced Embedded Linux developer with a passion for low-level software engineering, hardware integration, and solving complex technical challenges, we want to hear from you.
Apply today and join PDS Tech Commercial as a Software Engineer supporting a leader in the aviation industry. Help develop the next generation of embedded technologies powering aerospace innovation and mission success.
This position requires use of information or access to facilities subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). These regulations may limit access of controlled technologies: 1) to U.S. Persons, including U.S. Citizens, lawful permanent residents, and other narrow categories including refugees and asylees, or 2) to certain foreign nationals that have received an export license.
Pay Details: $90.67 per hour
Benefit offerings available for our associates include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, additional voluntary benefits, EAP program, commuter benefits and a 401K plan. Our benefit offerings provide employees the flexibility to choose the type of coverage that meets their individual needs. In addition, our associates may be eligible for paid leave including Paid Sick Leave or any other paid leave required by Federal, State, or local law, as well as Holiday pay where applicable.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled
Military connected talent encouraged to apply
To read our Candidate Privacy Information Statement, which explains how we will use your information, please navigate to https://www.pdstech.com/candidate-privacy
The Company will consider qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records in accordance with federal, state, and local laws and/or security clearance requirements, including, as applicable:
  • The California Fair Chance Act
  • Los Angeles City Fair Chance Ordinance
  • Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers
  • San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance

Massachusetts Candidates Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Ref: US_EN_33_022581_2597579
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About PDS Tech

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1977, PDS Tech, Inc. is one of the nation's premier specialty staffing firms with 31 offices nationwide.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1977

Social media

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