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Electrical Research Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and ... You will use and apply electrical engineering principles and techniques to design, develop ...

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With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and ... You will use and apply electrical engineering principles and techniques to design, develop ...

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Research and recommend alternative components, or processes to improve product quality or reduce ... Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering or similar * 2-5 years of experience in design and use ...

Showing results 21-40

Electrical Research Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$79.8K

$103.9K

$121.2K

How much do electrical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for electrical research engineer in Iowa is $103,913.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,400.00 and $113,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an electrical research engineer do?

An Electrical Research Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new electrical systems, components, or devices. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, conducting experiments and analyzing data to solve complex engineering problems. Their work supports advancements in fields like telecommunications, power systems, electronics, and renewable energy. Electrical Research Engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to innovate and improve electrical technologies, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electrical research engineer?

To thrive as an Electrical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, circuit design, and data analysis, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools (such as MATLAB, SPICE), laboratory instrumentation, and industry standards or certifications (like IEEE membership) is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, creativity, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for innovating and collaborating within research teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for advancing new technologies, ensuring project success, and driving innovation in the field.

What types of projects do electrical research engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other teams?

Electrical Research Engineers often work on projects involving the development and testing of new electrical devices, systems, or technologies, such as advanced circuit designs, renewable energy integration, or automation solutions. Collaboration is a key part of the role; engineers frequently work with multidisciplinary teams—including software developers, mechanical engineers, and project managers—to ensure successful project outcomes. Regular team meetings, joint problem-solving sessions, and cross-functional documentation are typical, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential.

What is the difference between Electrical Research Engineer vs Electrical Design Engineer?

AspectElectrical Research EngineerElectrical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering; often involved in research projectsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering; focuses on designing electrical systems
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsDesign offices, manufacturing facilities, construction sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, universitiesElectrical engineering firms, manufacturing companies, construction firms
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in electrical engineeringUnderstanding design roles in electrical engineering

Electrical Research Engineers primarily focus on developing new electrical technologies and conducting experiments in research settings. In contrast, Electrical Design Engineers concentrate on creating practical electrical systems and components for real-world applications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their work environment and objectives.

Infographic showing various Electrical Research Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,913 per year, or $50 per hour.

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electrical and Computer Engineering

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

390th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate in Electrical and Computer Engineering
Appointment Type:
Post Doc/Trainee
Job Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Iowa State University invites applications for an immediate Postdoctoral Research Associate position. The successful candidate will participate in cutting-edge research projects focused on optimization, data analytics, and control of power distribution systems. This position offers the opportunity to collaborate closely with utility company partners and national laboratories, utilizing real-world utility data and models to address practical and impactful challenges in modern power systems. The selected candidate will contribute to the development of innovative solutions that enhance the reliability, efficiency, and resilience of electric power distribution networks.
Required Minimum Qualifications :
PhD in Electrical Engineering
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated research experience in power distribution systems, optimization, data analytics, or control through doctoral research, postdoctoral research, industry experience, or funded research projects.
  • Authorship or co-authorship of at least one peer-reviewed journal article or conference paper in a relevant field.
  • Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills through completion of independent research projects, dissertation research, or development of technical solutions in a relevant discipline.
  • Evidence of research initiative and creativity, such as first-author publications, leadership of research activities, proposal development, or significant contributions to collaborative research projects.
  • Experience presenting technical or research findings to academic, industry, or professional audiences through conference presentations, seminars, workshops, or invited talks.

Department/Program & College Description:
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is part of Iowa State University's College of Engineering, one of the nation's leading engineering colleges. The department is recognized for excellence in research, education, and innovation across areas including electric power and energy systems, communications, cybersecurity, microelectronics, and systems and controls. Faculty and researchers collaborate with industry, government agencies, and national laboratories to develop solutions that address pressing technological and societal challenges.
Department Unit/Website:
Engineering Graduate Studies - College of Engineering
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program
  • Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Proposed Start Date:
November 1, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
Post Docs
Original Posting Date:
August 12, 2026
Posting Close Date:
September 1, 2026
Job Requisition Number:
R19752
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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