ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Belcan

Embedded Software Development Engineer

Grimes, IA · On-site

$55 - $65/hr

Embedded Software Development Engineer Location: Grimes, IA Zip Code: 50111 Duration: 6+ months Pay ... Utilizing MATLAB/Simulink and Continental's MBDS (Model-Based Development System) to develop ...

InnerPlant

Senior Electrical Systems Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

You will manage hardware, embedded systems, optics, and data acquisition to develop reliable ... To achieve success as a Senior Electrical Engineer, you will: * Lead electrical system architecture ...

New

InnerPlant

Senior Electrical Systems Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$104K - $136K/yr

You will manage hardware, embedded systems, optics, and data acquisition to develop reliable ... To achieve success as a Senior Electrical Engineer, you will: * Lead electrical system architecture ...

Stefanini

Embedded Software Engineer - Automotive

Grimes, IA · On-site

$129K - $170K/yr

Stefanini is looking for an Embedded Software Engineer - Automotive in Grimes, IA (ONSITE) For ... Utilizing MATLAB/Simulink and Continental's MBDS (Model-Based Development System) to develop ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Johnston, IA

$70K - $120K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded ... systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of embedded ... systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

... embedded software, System Integration, Hardware Security, Xilinx, Simulation, IP core, Versal ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$61K

$134K

$187.4K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Des Moines, IA is $133,968.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,800.00 and $159,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 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.

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 design, with job opportunities available across various sectors worldwide.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs

What job categories do people searching Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:

Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,968 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

Embedded Software Developer C++

Johnston, IA

RFA Engineering
Engineering Professional Services • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about RFA Engineeringexternal

$75K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.

This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.

Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering is seeking a C++ Embedded Software Developer to support the development of precision agriculture technology for off-highway equipment. This role involves designing, coding, and testing embedded software using modern C++ for control systems, sensor integration, and real-time applications. The ideal candidate will have experience with embedded systems, communication protocols, and work closely with cross-functional teams to bring advanced ag-tech solutions to market.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and test embedded software components using C++ for agricultural control systems and sensor interfaces.

  • Work closely with systems engineering to define software requirements and architecture.

  • Integrate software on real-time operating systems (RTOS) and bare-metal environments for 32-bit microcontrollers and embedded Linux platforms.

  • Implement CAN-based communication protocols (e.g., J1939, ISO 11783) for tractor and implement control.

  • Conduct unit testing, system integration, and validation on bench and field equipment.

  • Participate in code reviews, documentation, and software lifecycle planning in compliance with internal quality standards.

  • Troubleshoot hardware/software integration issues in lab and field environments.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers, controls engineers, test engineers, and product managers.

Requirements

  • B.S. or M.S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field.

  • 2+ years of experience developing embedded software using modern C++.

  • Proficiency in embedded software development for microcontroller- or processor-based systems.

  • Experience with CAN, SPI, I2C, and UART communication protocols.

  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) or embedded Linux.

  • Experience with version control tools such as Git.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in agriculture, off-highway equipment, or automotive embedded systems.

  • Familiarity with ISOBUS or J1939 communication protocol

  • Experience working in Agile development environments.

  • Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing frameworks.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position

    Pay Range: $75,000-$120,000 – Commensurate with experience

    About RFA Engineering

    RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
    Competitive Benefits

    • Health and Dental Insurance
    • TelaDoc Healthiest You
    • Supplemental Vision Insurance
    • Company Paid Life Insurance
    • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
    • Short-term Disability
    • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
    • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
    • HSA for Medical Expenses
    • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
    • Paid Time Off (PTO)
    • Paid Holidays
    • Bereavement Leave
    • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
    • Education Assistance

    Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

    #ZR