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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

We are hiring a Temporary (12 months) Senior Embedded Systems Engineer- hybrid * in Des Moines, IA. *This role is hybrid and based in Des Moines, IA; combining remote work with in-office ...

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Essential Functions The ideal candidate has a strong background in embedded systems development, deep expertise in C programming, and experience testing and debugging programmable devices to validate ...

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Hardware Testing & System Validation Assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and validation of embedded hardware systems in laboratory and production environments. Configure and test programmable ...

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Essential Functions The ideal candidate has a strong background in embedded systems development, deep expertise in C programming, and experience testing and debugging programmable devices to validate ...

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Essential Functions The ideal candidate has a strong background in embedded systems development, deep expertise in C programming, and experience testing and debugging programmable devices to validate ...

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA

$130K - $171K/yr

Essential Functions The ideal candidate has a strong background in embedded systems development, deep expertise in C programming, and experience testing and debugging programmable devices to validate ...

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$58.7K

$128.9K

$180.3K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Iowa is $128,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,700.00 and $153,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Do Embedded Systems Engineers Do?

An embedded systems engineer creates the software to control electronics or machines that are different from regular computers. This software needs to run on the specific hardware it controls. Their duties also include troubleshooting and testing. Essential skills include problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication. Work is typically in an office environment with full-time business hours. Educational qualifications include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in embedded systems engineering or a related field.

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

To thrive as an Embedded Systems Engineer, you need strong proficiency in C/C++ programming, embedded hardware knowledge, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS), microcontroller development platforms, and debugging tools like oscilloscopes and logic analyzers is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities are essential to design reliable embedded solutions that meet strict performance, safety, and efficiency requirements.

Will AI replace embedded developers?

Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop software for hardware devices, and while AI can automate certain coding tasks and optimize processes, it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in understanding hardware constraints, debugging, and system integration. AI tools can assist developers but require skilled engineers to oversee, customize, and ensure safety and reliability in embedded systems.

What do you do as an Embedded Systems Engineer?

An Embedded Systems Engineer designs, develops, and tests software and hardware for embedded devices such as microcontrollers and processors. They work with programming languages like C or C++, use tools like oscilloscopes and debuggers, and often collaborate with hardware teams to create reliable, efficient systems for applications like consumer electronics, automotive, or industrial equipment.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, or aerospace engineering can reach or exceed a $500,000 annual salary, especially with experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries. Executive or leadership roles in engineering companies may also offer compensation at this level, often including bonuses and stock options.

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

AspectEmbedded Systems EngineerFirmware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related fields; certifications like Certified Embedded Systems EngineerBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering; certifications like Certified Firmware Engineer
Work EnvironmentDesigning and developing embedded hardware/software for devices like automotive, medical, consumer electronicsWriting low-level code to optimize firmware for microcontrollers and embedded devices
Industry UsageUsed across automotive, aerospace, consumer electronics, industrial automationPrimarily in consumer electronics, IoT devices, and embedded hardware products

Both roles focus on embedded development but differ in scope. Embedded Systems Engineers work on both hardware and software integration, while Firmware Engineers specialize in writing low-level code for device firmware. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are some common challenges an Embedded Systems Engineer faces when integrating hardware and software components?

Embedded Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when ensuring that hardware and software components work seamlessly together. These can include dealing with limited memory and processing power, timing constraints, and real-time performance requirements. Troubleshooting issues that arise from hardware-software interactions—such as driver compatibility, signal integrity, or power management—requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with hardware designers and software developers. Engineers must frequently debug at both the hardware and code level, making attention to detail and cross-disciplinary communication essential in this role.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain executive or management roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. In embedded systems engineering, high-level positions with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities may reach or exceed this salary level, especially in high-demand industries or companies offering competitive compensation packages.

What are Embedded Systems Engineers?

Embedded Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain embedded systems—specialized computing systems that perform dedicated functions within larger mechanical or electrical systems. These engineers work with both hardware and software, often programming microcontrollers or microprocessors to control devices like automobiles, medical equipment, consumer electronics, and industrial machines. Their expertise ensures devices are efficient, reliable, and optimized for specific tasks, making embedded systems a crucial part of modern technology.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,936 per year, or $62 per hour.
Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Senior Embedded Systems Engineer

Saige Partners

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Other

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Description We strive to be Your Future, Your Solution to accelerate your career. Saige Partners is seeking an experienced Senior Embedded Systems Engineer to support hardware and software integration efforts for next-generation IoT devices running on Arm-based processors. The Senior Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for developing, testing, and maintain embedded software and hardware solutions to support the manufacturing of our products and to analyze and evolve product designs to maintain production viability.

The ideal candidate has strong experience with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems, low-level software, and hardware-software integration & debugging. This role collaborates closely with hardware engineers and product operations to deliver reliable integrated solutions. What you will be doing.....

Design, develop, and maintain embedded software for microcontroller and processor-based systems as part of supporting manufacturing, field issue, and production ramp-up activities. Develop and debug firmware drivers for peripherals such as UART, SPI, I2C, CAN, GPIO, ADC, and timers as part of root cause of failure evaluations and end-of-life component replacements Integrate embedded software with custom hardware designs. Work with RTOS environments & round-robin scheduler.

Perform system bring-up, debugging, and root-cause analysis using tools such as oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and debuggers. Select and qualify electronic components based on performance, cost, availability, and lifecycle as part of supporting end-of life component replacement. Working with Manufacturing to address design issues and fixes - traveling to locations in IL and MN periodically.

Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, and firmware engineers to define test system architecture and interfaces as part of supporting manufacturing, field issue, and production ramp-up activities. Create and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, schematics, BOMs, test reports & work instructions as part of supporting manufacturing, field issue, and production ramp-up activities. All other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring to the Table..... Bachelor's degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field. 3+ years of experience developing embedded systems with hardware integration

Proficiency in C/C++ for embedded environments. Experience with ARM Cortex-M or similar microcontroller architecture. Solid understanding of embedded fundamentals: memory management, interrupts, timing, concurrency & threading.

Knowledge of communication protocols such as USB, BLE, RS232. Experience debugging at the hardware/software boundary. Manufacturing test experience with test equipment like ATE and Labview tools.

Experience working with hardware design concepts (schematics, datasheets, board bring-up). Familiarity with version control systems (e.g. Git)

Preferred qualifications if you have it...... Experience developing real-time applications in C#. Experience with scheduling concepts & memory management

Experience with bootloaders, firmware updates. Knowledge of reliability-critical systems (automotive, medical). Familiarity with scripting languages (Python, Bash) for test automation.

Saige Partners, one of the fastest growing technology and talent companies in the Midwest, believes in people with a passion to help them succeed. We are in the business of helping professionals Build Careers, Not Jobs. Saige Partners believes employees are the most valuable asset to building a thriving and successful company culture, which is why we offer a benefit package and convenient weekly payment solutions that helps our employees stay healthy and maintain a positive work/life balance.

Contact us to learn more about the opportunity below or check out other opportunities at https://careers.saigepartners.com/.