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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

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

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Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$61.2K

$134.4K

$187.9K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Cedar Rapids, IA is $134,376.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,100.00 and $160,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an embedded systems engineer 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.

Are embedded systems engineers in demand?

Embedded systems engineers are in high demand due to the growth of IoT, automotive, healthcare, and consumer electronics industries. They typically require skills in programming languages like C and C++, and knowledge of hardware integration, with job opportunities expected to increase as embedded technology becomes more widespread.

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 is an embedded systems engineer?

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 Cedar Rapids, IA? The most popular types of Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Cedar Rapids, IA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Cedar Rapids, IA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,870 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Saige Partners

Hiawatha, IA • On-site

$121K - $160K/yr

Other

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

We strive to be Your Future, Your Solution to accelerate your career!

Contact Hannah Wilson at , you can also schedule an appointment at to learn more about this opportunity!

Position: Embedded Electrical Engineer (Hiawatha, IA)

Job Overview:
Our client is seeking an Embedded Electrical Engineer to support the development and integration of rugged embedded computing solutions for defense and industrial applications. This role is responsible for architecting, developing, testing, and debugging software and firmware for custom electronic assemblies utilizing a variety of programmable devices.
The Embedded Electrical Engineer will serve as a key technical liaison between internal engineering teams and external software development partners, helping define software requirements, manage code integration efforts, and ensure embedded systems are developed to meet customer, program, and quality expectations. This highly collaborative position combines embedded software development, hardware validation, systems-level engineering, vendor coordination, and technical leadership.
This is a contract position.

Key Responsibilities:
Embedded Software & Firmware Development
Design, develop, test, and debug firmware for a variety of microcontroller and microprocessor platforms.
Develop production test software and scripts for both commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and custom programmable devices.
Perform software integration, validation, and troubleshooting activities to ensure reliable system performance.
Support software architecture development and maintain associated design documentation.
Hardware Testing & System Validation
Assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and validation of embedded hardware systems in laboratory and production environments.
Configure and test programmable devices at the register level.
Utilize electrical test equipment including digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and related instrumentation.
Support system-level integration and verification activities.
Technical Leadership & Vendor Management
Serve as the primary technical interface between internal engineering teams and external software development partners.
Develop Statements of Work (SOWs), software specifications, technical requirements, and acceptance criteria for outsourced software projects.
Review externally developed code and provide technical direction to ensure compliance with program requirements and quality standards.
Establish and maintain software development processes, version control practices, and code management procedures.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Partner with electrical, mechanical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams throughout the product lifecycle.
Participate in design reviews, requirements reviews, and technical risk assessments.
Ensure software development activities comply with customer requirements, industry standards, and internal engineering processes.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
5+ years of experience in embedded systems development.
Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. Citizen, Permanent Resident, or protected person as defined by applicable regulations).
Strong proficiency in embedded programming using C.
Extensive experience working in mixed hardware/software development and debugging environments.
Experience with interrupt-driven firmware design and register-level device configuration.
Working knowledge of embedded communication protocols including I2C, SPI, UART, and USB.
Ability to read and interpret schematic diagrams, PCB layouts, and technical datasheets.
Experience using electronic test and measurement equipment.
Knowledge of computer hardware, systems integration, and electrical engineering fundamentals.
Strong problem-solving, troubleshooting, and multitasking skills.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with embedded Linux, VxWorks, or similar real-time operating systems (RTOS).
Experience developing applications for Windows and/or Linux environments.
Familiarity with software development lifecycle (SDLC) processes in regulated, mission-critical, or defense-related industries.
Experience working with external software development vendors, contract engineering firms, or offshore development teams.
Knowledge of cybersecurity principles and secure embedded system design practices.
Experience developing software compliant with coding standards such as MISRA-C.
Familiarity with MIL-STD requirements and defense industry compliance standards.
Experience with engineering software tools such as Altium Designer, Autodesk Inventor, and AutoCAD.
Basic soldering, rework, and electronics modification experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Strong understanding of embedded system architecture and hardware/software integration.
Ability to create and maintain technical documentation and software design artifacts.
Effective communication and collaboration skills across multidisciplinary teams.
Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
Strong analytical and technical troubleshooting capabilities.
Commitment to quality, reliability, and continuous improvement in product development.
Learn more about Saige Partners on or .

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