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Embedded Systems Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Software Controls Engineer

Waterloo, IA

$129.70K - $170.60K/yr

In addition, you will: - Create and develop software per the client's Embedded Software Development Process. - Participate in control system design and analysis. - Participate functional/subsystem ...

FPGA Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$126.90K - $163K/yr

Description Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System Integration, Hardware Security, Xilinx, Simulation, IP core, Versal, Stratix, concept ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Embedded Systems information

See Iowa salary details

$58.7K

$128.9K

$180.3K

How much do embedded systems jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for embedded systems in Iowa is $128,936.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,700.00 and $153,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Embedded Systems job?

An Embedded Systems job involves designing, developing, and optimizing hardware and software for devices with dedicated functions, such as medical devices, automotive systems, and IoT products. Engineers in this field work with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and firmware development to ensure efficiency and reliability. Their role often includes coding in C/C++, debugging hardware-software interactions, and improving system performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Embedded Systems position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Embedded Systems, you need a solid background in electrical engineering, C/C++ programming, and hardware-software integration, usually supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and debugging tools like oscilloscopes is commonly expected, and certifications like Certified Embedded Systems Professional can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork abilities help you excel in cross-functional environments. These competencies ensure effective design, implementation, and troubleshooting of reliable embedded solutions for various industries.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Embedded Systems professional?

Embedded Systems professionals commonly spend their days designing, coding, and testing software that operates on hardware devices, working closely with circuit schematics and firmware. They often collaborate with hardware engineers and quality assurance teams to troubleshoot issues and refine integrated products. Tasks may also involve writing technical documentation, participating in design reviews, and optimizing system performance for reliability and efficiency. The role requires a balance between hands-on development and cross-team communication, providing a dynamic and challenging workday.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Systems jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Embedded Systems jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Embedded Systems jobs in Iowa? For Embedded Systems jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Embedded Systems jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Embedded Systems job openings:
Senior Principal Systems Integration Engineer (ONSITE)

Senior Principal Systems Integration Engineer (ONSITE)

RTX

Cedar Rapids, IA

$132.40K - $251.60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


RTX rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-05-22
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-121 350 Collins Rd NE BLDG 121
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Security Clearance Type:
Secret - Current
Security Clearance Status:
Active and existing security clearance required on day 1
Collins Aerospace, an RTX company, is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
The Applied Research & Technology (AR&T) organization is seeking an experienced Senior Principal Systems Integration Engineer to lead complex integration and field demonstration activities supporting military customers and advanced mission-critical systems. This senior-level role provides strategic technical leadership and serves as the primary authority during onsite customer engagements, field events, and multi-domain integration efforts. The ideal candidate possesses extensive expertise operating across highly secure environments, demonstrates exceptional leadership in multidisciplinary, customer settings, and excels in driving results in dynamic, fast-paced operational scenarios.
What You Will Do
• Provide strategic leadership and oversight for system integration, configuration, and demonstration activities for Mission Systems products across air, ground, maritime, and multi-domain applications, ensuring alignment with organizational and program goals
• Coordinate integration across multidisciplinary teams including systems, software, hardware, test, networking, and cybersecurity engineering
• Propose, capture, plan and execute field demonstrations, platform integrations, and customer events at various security levels (e.g., Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified, Secret, and above as required)
• Serve as the primary technical interface to U.S. and international military customers during integration, evaluation, and demonstration activities
• Diagnose and resolve integration issues spanning hardware interfaces, embedded software, networking, communications systems, and mission-system components
• Develop integration plans, demonstration objectives, configuration documentation, and post-event technical reports suitable for military programs and security-controlled environments
• Ensure adherence to security policies related to handling classified material, secure labs, and secure field operations
• Mentor junior and mid-level integration engineers, promoting disciplined integration practices aligned with team standards
• Represent Collins Aerospace as a senior technical leader at high-profile mission effectiveness events, capability demonstrations, and customer engagements, showcasing thought leadership, strategic vision, and exceptional communication skills
• Travel up to 50% to customer sites, test ranges, and field demonstration locations
Qualifications You Must Have
• Extensive experience in Mission Systems, aerospace, defense, or military-relevant system integration roles
• Ability to work within multiple security domains and follow all classified handling procedures
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to brief military customers and translate complex technical concepts
• Active and transferable SECRET clearance is required prior to start date
• U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 10 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 7 years of experience
Qualifications We Prefer
• Experience leading integration and demonstrated activities for military systems or in secure operational environments
• Strong troubleshooting skills across embedded systems, hardware interfaces, networking, and secure communications technologies
• Experience supporting military platform integration (airborne, ground, maritime, or C2 systems)
• Familiarity with secure lab operations, classified networks, and cross-domain solutions
• Background in systems engineering, real-time embedded software, mission networking, or advanced avionics architectures
• Prior experience delivering high-visibility capability demonstrations to military customers or senior stakeholders
• Active Top Secret (TS) Security clearance
What We Offer
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees
• Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option
• Tuition reimbursement program
• Student Loan Repayment Program
• Life insurance and disability coverage
• Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
• Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
• Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning
• Adoption Assistance
• Autism Benefit
• Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions
• Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program
• Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits
• Bright Horizons, child and elder care services
• Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program
• And more!
Learn More & Apply Now!
Do you want to be a part of something bigger? A team whose impact stretches across the world, and even beyond? At Collins Aerospace, our Mission Systems team helps civilian, military and government customers complete their most complex missions - whatever and wherever they may be. Our customers depend on us for intelligent and secure communications, missionized systems for specialized aircraft and spacecraft and collaborative space solutions. By joining our team, you'll have your own critical part to play in ensuring our customer succeeds today while anticipating their needs for tomorrow. Are you up for the challenge? Join our mission today.
*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.
ONSITE: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form - with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again.
Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day.
Employee Referral Eligible
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 132,400 USD - 251,600 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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