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Director Of Software Engineering Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Johnston, IA

$70K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center ... direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization. Embedded ...

Harris

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA

$80K - $90K/yr

GitHub Copilot, Claude, Cursor or ChatGPT) - Familiarity with AI directed prompt engineering for ... of experience in software development, with proficiency in one or more programming languages ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center ... direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization. Embedded ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The ... growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

The position requires a deep understanding of software engineering principles, automated testing, and development tooling, as well as the ability to collaborate across teams and clearly communicate ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

The position requires a deep understanding of software engineering principles, automated testing, and development tooling, as well as the ability to collaborate across teams and clearly communicate ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center ... direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization. Embedded ...

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

... of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff ... growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

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All JobsOf Software Engineering JobsDirector Of Software Engineering JobsDirector Of Software Engineering Jobs in Iowa

Director Of Software Engineering information

See Iowa salary details

$130.6K

$238.6K

How much do director of software engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for director of software engineering in Iowa is $229,103.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $237,600.00 and $237,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Director of Software Engineering, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Director of Software Engineering, you need deep technical expertise in software development, proven leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with agile methodologies, cloud platforms, project management tools (like Jira), and experience with architectural frameworks are typically required. Outstanding communication, strategic thinking, and the ability to mentor and motivate teams are vital soft skills in this role. These skills ensure effective project delivery, foster innovation, and build high-performing teams aligned with organizational goals.

What does a Director of Software Engineering do?

A Director of Software Engineering leads and manages software development teams within an organization. They oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of software projects, ensuring high quality and timely completion. Their responsibilities include defining technical strategy, mentoring engineering managers and developers, fostering collaboration, and aligning technology initiatives with business goals. Additionally, they often play a key role in recruitment, budgeting, and setting best practices for software development processes.

What is the difference between Director Of Software Engineering vs Software Development Manager?

AspectDirector Of Software EngineeringSoftware Development Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple teams, sets strategic goals, manages budgets, and aligns software projects with business objectives.Manages day-to-day software development teams, ensures project delivery, and coordinates technical tasks.
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master’s in Computer Science or related field, extensive experience in software development, leadership skills.Bachelor's in Computer Science or related field, strong technical background, experience managing development teams.
Work EnvironmentStrategic, cross-team collaboration, executive communication, often in larger organizations.Technical focus, project management, direct team oversight, often in mid-sized companies.

The main difference is that the Director Of Software Engineering focuses on strategic leadership and organizational oversight, while the Software Development Manager handles daily team management and project execution. Both roles require technical expertise and leadership skills, but the director role involves broader business alignment and higher-level decision-making.

What are some common challenges faced by a Director of Software Engineering when managing cross-functional teams?

A Director of Software Engineering often manages teams composed of engineers, product managers, and designers, which can present challenges in aligning priorities and communication styles. Balancing the technical needs of the engineering team with broader business objectives requires clear communication and strong leadership. Additionally, adapting to rapidly changing technology while ensuring consistent delivery and maintaining team morale is a key challenge. Proactive stakeholder management and fostering a culture of collaboration are essential for success in this role.

What Does a Director of Software Engineering Do?

As a director of software engineering, your responsibilities are to oversee the daily operations of the software engineering department and the long-term application of strategic planning for the department. You are ultimately responsible for creating policies and objectives for the department in collaboration with other director-level positions in the company. You are also heavily involved in the department’s finances and project management, and you often oversee multiple projects. At larger companies, you may have fewer technical duties, but for small and mid-sized companies, you may code or provide technical and managerial expertise on specific projects.

More about Director Of Software Engineering jobs
What are popular job titles related to Director Of Software Engineering jobs in Iowa? For Director Of Software Engineering jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Director Of Software Engineering jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Director Of Software Engineering jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Director Of Software Engineering jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Director Of Software Engineering job openings:
Director Of Software Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Director Of Software Engineering job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $229,103 per year, or $110.1 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

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.

Entry Level Software Engineer

This position is associated with the design and development of embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available that require use of C, C++, Python or Simulink MBSD programming languages. Testing methods include bench testing with controllers, extensive vehicle simulation testing, and physical full machine testing.

Responsibilities

  • Development of embedded software applications that control vehicle operation using C, C++, or Simulink MBSD.
  • Integration of software in a multi-developer Agile team using Continuous Integration process.
  • Functional and integration testing prior to hand-off to software test and evaluation group
  • Development and release status tracking using the Agile development process.
  • Troubleshooting and debugging using unit tests, vehicle simulators and bench testing of controllers with hardware in the loop.
  • Creation of software design documentation.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related degree.
  • Experience with C or C++ programming languages
  • Strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • Must have a valid driver’s license

Desired Attributes

  • Experience with CAN J1939 communication protocol
  • Previous experience in a structured software development process
  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers
  • Ability to interpret software requirements and state diagrams
  • Knowledge of common software development tools such as VisualBasic,
  • Experience with Simulink Model Based Software Design
  • General machine knowledge of industrial equipment or machinery

Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 – 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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • 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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