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Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Crystal Group

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Embedded Electrical Engineer Reports to: VP, Engineering Department : Engineering Work Model ... This role is responsible for architecting, authoring, and debugging software and firmware for ...

Crystal Group

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Embedded Electrical Engineer Reports to: VP, Engineering Department : Engineering Work Model ... This role is responsible for architecting, authoring, and debugging software and firmware for ...

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

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 ...

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All JobsEmbedded Software Engineer JobsEmbedded Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa

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 Jun 18, 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 design, develop, and test software that runs on hardware devices such as microcontrollers and embedded systems. They work with programming languages like C and C++, and often use tools like debuggers and oscilloscopes to ensure software reliability in environments such as consumer electronics, automotive systems, and medical devices.

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 engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data science, or executive roles can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities, typically found in large tech companies or finance firms.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior embedded software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in real-time systems, and proficiency in programming languages like C and C++ can reach salaries of $300,000 or more, especially in high-demand industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced technology. Achieving this level often requires advanced certifications, leadership roles, or working in regions with high living costs and competitive markets.
More about Embedded Software Engineer jobs
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:
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What cities in Iowa are hiring for Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Software Engineer jobs in IA? For Embedded Software Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Embedded Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $144,068 per year, or $69.3 per hour.
Embedded Software Engineer - Aerospace

Embedded Software Engineer - Aerospace

Genova Technologies

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

What will you do?
This team member will support a development team working to transition an existing dual-differentiation architecture to a new RTOS-based platform. Each engineer will work within an Agile/Scrum team to develop, test, and validate software code. This position requires Daily work to be completed at our Cedar Rapids, IA office, with some potential for Hybrid work. Multiple positions are open based off experience level.
Specific responsibilities include:
• Working within an Agile/Scrum team
• Developing software that meets a defined Definition of Done for assigned Agile stories
• Collaborating with the team and Product Owner to provide feedback on story definition, sizing, and completeness
• Following DO-278 regulatory guidelines and holding other teammates accountable for their compliance.
What do you need?
The ideal candidate for this position will have:
• 4 year degree in Computer Science, Software Development, or similar field
• Some object-oriented design or development experience
• Experience working within a development team
• 1+ years of experience in C or C++ (multiple roles available based on experience level).
Skills we consider a plus include:
• Experience working with DO-178 or 278-compliant development
• Some verification and validation experience
• Experience working in an Agile environment
• Software documentation experience
• Experience in OS migrations, particularly with real-time operating systems (RTOS)
• Some C# experience.
What do you get?
Genova provides a competitive benefits package that includes:
• Medical, dental, vision coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Paid holidays and scaling PTO
• A generous 401k plan
• And more!

Apply