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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Des Moines, IA

Strong professional experience with Linux and embedded systems * 5+ years' experience and strong understanding of C++ Programming Languages * C, C++, Python, QML * Bash, YAML * Software Design ...

Platform Staffing Group (an STA Group Company) is looking for an R& D Engineer to assist our client ... embedded systems. 5+ Years of experience with NVIDIA Jetson Demonstrated Deep knowledge of ...

C++ Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Emphasizes understanding memory management principles and connects C++ programming to operating systems, embedded systems, and high-performance computing applications. * Curriculum Awareness ...

Hands-On AI Security Engineering Actively contribute to architecture, design, and development of AI/ML and GenAI systems with embedded security controls. Integrate security across the SSDLC ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 3, 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.

What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,968 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

Full-time

This job post has expired 4 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Posting: 4/16/2026 

FLSA Status: Salaried, Exempt

Location: Ames, IA

Supervisory: No

Team: Software Engineering 

Reports to: Software Engineering Manager

The Culture

Ag Leader was born from a passion and determination to transform agriculture forever. In 1992, Ag Leader changed the industry by bringing real-time yield data to farmers’ fingertips. Today, more than 30 years later, Ag Leader has become a global team that provides year-round solutions to help farmers plan, plant, apply, and harvest more efficiently and profitably. We are improving the lives of farmers. We are increasing the efficiency of production agriculture around the world. And we aren’t slowing down. 

Ready to use your talent to implement change? Join our team of innovators revolutionizing agriculture.

The Opportunity

To work on a cross-functional team building software products that help farmers maximize profit and field productivity as a Software Engineer. In this position you, along with your teammates, will be responsible for designing and delivering quality, innovative solutions to customer needs. In addition, you will serve as a mentor for your teammates and a technical expert for the department. This is a challenging opportunity to gain experience and expertise in a variety of programming environments related to development in embedded devices and Linux. There will be opportunities to participate in training and personal development.

As a team member, you will demonstrate and promote the Ag Leader Way:

  • Willing, Ready, Doing
  • Courage to do what is Right
  • Excellence
  • Approachable

The Right Person Will

  • Contribute and thrive in a cross-functional team environment
  • Commit to bringing their best every day
  • Delight in problem solving no matter the problem
  • Be flexible and willing to work in a variety of programming languages
  • Give and receive constructive feedback to others

Responsibilities

  • Mentor and guide less experienced team members, providing technical assistance, feedback, and support across teams.
  • Lead the design, implementation, and testing of innovative software solutions that exceed customer needs.
  • Champion continuous improvement, agile practices, and change initiatives by identifying and resolving challenges using root cause analysis or similar methods.
  • Participate as a technical leader in discussions and initiatives to improve solutions, processes, and development practices.
  • Model best practices in code quality, actively lead code reviews, and foster a culture of constructive feedback.
  • Facilitate cross-team / team collaboration, including meetings and conflict resolution, to drive alignment and progress.
  • Create, update, and maintain technical documentation, processes, and development standards.
  • Deliver high-quality, working code and demonstrate product features to stakeholders and company-wide audiences.
  • Actively engage in retrospectives, showing openness to feedback and commitment to team and personal growth.
  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of our products and their impact in the field.
  • Support recruitment by participating in candidate interviews.

Qualifications/Skills

Education & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or related engineering discipline
  • 5+ years of product development experience focused on software products
  • Strong professional experience with Linux and embedded systems
  • 5+ years’ experience and strong understanding of C++

Programming Languages

  • C, C++, Python, QML
  • Bash, YAML
  • Software Design & Architecture
  • Test-driven development/design, continuous integration, Scrum/Agile methods
  • Clean coding, refactoring, and code specifications
  • Knowledge of design principles (SOLID, domain-driven, pragmatic/clean architecture)

Build & DevOps

  • GitLab, Perforce, Jenkins, Artifactory
  • Docker, Yocto, CMake, Conan

UI/UX & Tools

  • Qt Designer
  • UI/UX design fundamentals (visual design, interaction design, prototyping, usability testing)

Specialized Areas

  • Vision processing and machine learning
  • Robotics and robotic path planning
  • Geospatial functions and concepts
  • Electrical schematics and pinouts
  • Strong foundations in math concepts

Testing & Troubleshooting

  • Automated testing frameworks (e.g., gtest, QML testing)
  • Debugging with gdb/lldb and profiling tools
  • Root cause analysis

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States. We are unable to sponsor or provide sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Ag Leader is a drug-free work environment. All offers for employment are contingent upon a pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Ag Leader participates in E-verify