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Embedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Control Systems Engineer As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional ... Experience with embedded software development or controls integration. * Knowledge of hydraulic ...

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

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

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$70K - $110K/yr

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

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

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

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$70K - $110K/yr

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

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity. Responsibilities * Design, develop, and maintain software applications and frameworks for Linux-based operating systems that power advanced ...

RFA Engineering

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Familiarity with operator displays, machine controls, HMI systems, or embedded user interfaces ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

UX Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$80K - $130K/yr

Familiarity with operator displays, machine controls, HMI systems, or embedded user interfaces ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

RFA Engineering

UX Designer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with in-vehicle displays, machine controls, or embedded user interface systems ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

UX Designer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Familiarity with in-vehicle displays, machine controls, or embedded user interface systems ... Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, branch office in Dubuque ...

All JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer JobsEmbedded Systems Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA

Embedded Systems Engineer information

See Dubuque, IA salary details

$58.9K

$129.4K

$181.1K

How much do embedded systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems engineer in Dubuque, IA is $129,446.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $105,100.00 and $154,200.00 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.
More about Embedded Systems Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA? For Embedded Systems Engineer jobs in Dubuque, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Embedded Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Embedded Systems Engineer job openings:
Embedded Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Dubuque, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,446 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

Control Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
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.
Control Systems Engineer
As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine performance, productivity, automation, and operator experience.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement control systems for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain, and machine implement systems.
  • Create and maintain control system models using MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Perform simulations and virtual testing to evaluate system performance.
  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, and control system tuning.
  • Analyze machine and sensor data to improve system performance and reliability.
  • Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions.
  • Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements.
  • Support product development activities from concept through production.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation related to control system development and testing.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
  • Understanding of control systems, hydraulics, powertrain systems, robotics, or vehicle dynamics.
  • Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience designing, implementing, or validating control systems.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, Simscape, or similar modeling and simulation tools.
  • Experience with embedded software development or controls integration.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic systems, powertrain systems, robotics, or autonomous machine technologies.
  • Experience operating, testing, or developing construction, agricultural, mining, or other off-highway equipment.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensor technologies, and machine diagnostics.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$100,000 - 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
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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