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

UX Designer

Dubuque, IA

$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 ...

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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 7, 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Embedded Systems Engineer job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $129,446 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 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 a growth-oriented 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.

UX Designer

As a UX Designer, you will support projects of moderate complexity through the development of user interaction task flows, wireframes, prototypes, and final production-ready designs for new and existing products.

Responsibilities

  • Develop user interaction task flows, wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes for new and existing products.
  • Apply user-centered design principles, usability standards, and human factors methodologies to create intuitive and effective user experiences.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute UX design and validation activities across multiple projects of moderate complexity.
  • Conduct and support usability testing activities after and after product development to validate design decisions and improve user satisfaction.
  • Create, maintain, and update UX design artifacts, documentation, and system-level design standards.
  • Translate customer needs, business objectives, and technical requirements into user-centered design solutions.
  • Make strategic design recommendations related to product features, workflows, navigation structures, and user interactions.
  • Collaborate closely with software developers, engineers, product managers, and stakeholders throughout the product development lifecycle.
  • Ensure implemented features align with established UX requirements, design specifications, and usability goals.
  • Develop process improvements and contribute to UX best practices, standards, and methodologies across project teams.
  • Support accessibility, visual hierarchy, branding, and consistency across user interfaces.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Human Factors, Graphic Design, Interaction Design, Visual Design, User Experience Design, or a related field; equivalent experience will also be considered.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience applying User-Centered Design (UCD) principles to moderately complex interface challenges.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience designing user interfaces for web, mobile, or in-vehicle display applications.
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience collaborating with cross-functional teams including engineering, software development, marketing, and business stakeholders.
  • Experience translating customer needs and user requirements into effective design solutions and communicating those solutions to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Understanding of product development processes and technology-driven development environments.
  • High proficiency with at least two UX design and rapid prototyping tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, Adobe Illustrator, or InVision.
  • Strong communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong portfolio demonstrating visual design, interaction design, task flows, prototyping, and user-centered problem solving.
  • Experience using Figma and Sketch in professional product development environments.
  • Experience utilizing UX metrics, usability data, and user research to influence product design decisions.
  • Knowledge of accessibility standards, visual hierarchy, information architecture, and brand-driven design systems.
  • Experience creating storyboards, user journeys, workflows, and prototypes to validate concepts after high-fidelity design.
  • Experience designing user interfaces for construction, agriculture, off-highway, or industrial equipment applications.
  • Familiarity with in-vehicle displays, machine controls, or embedded user interface systems.

Portfolio Requirement

A portfolio demonstrating the ability to design intuitive user experiences, create task flows, develop wireframes and prototypes, and deliver polished user interface solutions is required as part of the application process. Portfolio submissions may be provided as a website URL or attachment.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $75,000-$110,000 – 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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly