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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Embedded Software & Firmware Development Design, develop, test, and debug firmware for a variety of ... Configure and test programmable devices at the register level. Utilize electrical test equipment ...

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Showing results 1-20

Embedded Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$65.7K

$144.1K

$163.4K

How much do embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded software engineer in Iowa is $144,068.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,500.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Embedded Software Engineer vs Firmware Engineer?

AspectEmbedded Software EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields; often requires knowledge of C/C++Similar credentials; strong C/C++ skills, understanding of hardware
Work EnvironmentDevelops software for embedded systems in various industries like automotive, IoT, consumer electronicsFocuses on low-level hardware interaction, often working closely with hardware teams
Industry UsageCommon in automotive, medical devices, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and hardware startups

Embedded Software Engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, focusing on system-level programming. Firmware Engineers write low-level code that directly interacts with hardware components. While both roles require similar skills and work environments, Embedded Software Engineers often work on a broader range of software, whereas Firmware Engineers focus on hardware-specific code. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What Is an Embedded Software Engineer?

Embedded software is installed on devices that operate like personal computers. Examples of embedded software can be found in geographic positioning systems, or GPS devices, smart watches, and calculators. Embedded software engineers perform a range of embedded software engineering functions, including running system software updates and designing software for embedded systems. Embedded software engineers also advise on product development, approve new product designs, and optimize the product lifecycle.

Will AI replace embedded system engineers?

Embedded software engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, and while AI tools can assist with coding and testing, they are unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, system integration, and troubleshooting. AI can enhance productivity but requires skilled engineers to oversee, interpret, and implement solutions effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in computer science or electrical engineering, strong programming skills in C/C++, and experience with embedded systems design. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller architectures, debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set top engineers apart. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, efficient, and safe embedded solutions that meet industry standards.

What are Embedded Software Engineers?

Embedded Software Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are part of larger systems, such as cars, medical devices, industrial machines, and consumer electronics. Their work involves programming in languages like C or C++ to interact closely with hardware components, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and safety. Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers to integrate and test software with physical devices, often working within real-time and resource-constrained environments. Their expertise is crucial in developing the 'brains' of many devices we use every day.

What do embedded software engineers do?

Embedded software engineers develop, test, and maintain software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers, sensors, and embedded systems. They write code primarily in C or C++, often using specialized tools and real-time operating systems to ensure efficient and reliable device performance.

How does an Embedded Software Engineer typically collaborate with hardware engineers during product development?

Embedded Software Engineers work closely with hardware engineers throughout the product development lifecycle. Collaboration often involves joint design reviews, debugging sessions, and integration testing to ensure software and hardware function seamlessly together. Effective communication is crucial, as changes in hardware can impact software functionality and vice versa. This cross-disciplinary teamwork helps resolve technical issues quickly and ensures the end product meets performance and reliability standards.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software, aerospace, or petroleum engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

Can I make 200k a year as a software engineer?

Embedded Software Engineers can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like real-time systems or safety-critical applications, and working in high-paying industries such as aerospace or automotive. Achieving this salary often requires advanced certifications, a strong track record, and positions in regions with higher compensation levels. Entry-level or general roles typically offer lower salaries, but senior engineers with expertise in embedded systems can reach or exceed this income level.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Full Time, and 75% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,068 per year, or $69.3 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer - DevSecOps Embedded Communications - (Onsite)

Senior Software Engineer - DevSecOps Embedded Communications - (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

Cedar Rapids, IA

$121K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 247 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-05-26

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-137 ~ 855 35Th St NE ~ BLDG 137

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required after day 1

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Join Collins Aerospace Resilient Connectivity Products (RCP) Engineering as a Senior DevSecOps Software Engineer to shape the future of military communications! Be part of a dedicated DevSecOps team developing cutting-edge systems to keep military personnel safe, connected, and informed. Work with industry experts on advanced embedded software, cryptography, and state-of-the-art computing architectures.

At RCP, we tackle our defense customers’ toughest challenges by rapidly developing, integrating, and demonstrating software solutions that leverage cutting-edge innovations. Here, you’ll play a critical DevSecOps role in designing and developing CI/CD solutions while working alongside top-tier engineers and industry leaders. By harnessing advanced technologies, you’ll push the boundaries of what’s possible. Whether enhancing trusted systems or pioneering new innovations, your contributions will directly support mission-critical operations around the globe.

Join a team that’s shaping the future of military communications. We’re looking for a Senior DevSecOps Software Engineer to help build cutting-edge systems that keep our military personnel safe, connected, and informed. Work alongside industry experts on next-generation embedded software, advanced satellite communications, cryptography, and state-of-the-art computing architectures.

You’ll develop resilient, high-performance networks for UAVs, fighter jets, aircraft carriers, and ground vehicles—featuring low latency, high throughput, anti-jamming capabilities, mobile ad hoc operations, and secure IP connectivity. If you’re ready to push the boundaries of embedded software and communications technology, this is the opportunity for you!

What You Will Do:

  • Develop DevSecOps pipelines for our embedded systems in air-gapped environments

  • Integrate tooling, apps, and scripts into the development pipelines

  • Participate in the selection of DevSecOps technologies to enable automation for product development teams

  • Develop applications and scripts to support integration of software updates.

  • Integrate the automation of test, deployment, and software artifact generation in pipelines

  • Collaborate with cross-functional product development teams

  • Work in an agile environment (SAFe)

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Proficient programming experience in Bash and Python.
    Proficiency with GitLab and GitLab Runners.

  • Experience with containerization tools such as Docker, Podman, or Kubernetes.

  • Proficient in Linux environments.

  • Understanding of IP networking and protocols.

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Active U.S. government-issued security clearance (must be transferable).

  • Experience developing in air-gapped, on-premises environments.

  • Experience with JFrog Artifactory or equivalent artifact management tools.

  • Familiarity with tools BitBucket and Bamboo.

  • Hands-on experience with configuration management tools like Ansible, Chef, or Puppet, and IaC tools like Terraform.

  • Knowledge of observability and monitoring tools such as Grafana and Prometheus, with experience in RESTful API integration.

  • Strong Linux administration skills.

  • Familiarity with programming languages such as C, C++, or Rust.

  • Experience with Atlassian tools and working in Agile development teams.

  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively, meet project milestones, and deliver high-quality results.

What We Offer:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance  

  • Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees  

  • Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option  

  • Tuition reimbursement program 

  • Student Loan Repayment Program  

  • Life insurance and disability coverage  

  • Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection 

  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits 

  • Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning  

  • Adoption Assistance           

  • Autism Benefit  

  • Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions  

  • Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program 

  • Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits  

  • Bright Horizons, child and elder care services 

  • Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program  

  • And more!  

Relocation Eligibility

  • Eligible for relocation

Learn More & Apply Now!

Do you want to be a part of something bigger? A team whose impact stretches across the world, and even beyond? At Collins Aerospace, our Mission Systems team helps civilian, military and government customers complete their most complex missions — whatever and wherever they may be. Our customers depend on us for intelligent and secure communications, missionized systems for specialized aircraft and spacecraft and collaborative space solutions. By joining our team, you’ll have your own critical part to play in ensuring our customer succeeds today while anticipating their needs for tomorrow. Are you up for the challenge? Join our mission today. 

* Please consider the following role type definitions as you apply for this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form – with our customers and with each other – propel us all higher, again and again.
 

Apply now and be part of the team that’s redefining aerospace, every day.

Employee Referral Eligible

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

The salary range for this role is 86,800 USD - 165,200 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance. This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply. RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018