2

Entry Level Embedded Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity. Responsibilities * Design, develop, and ...

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity. Responsibilities * Design, develop, and ...

Showing results 21-26

Entry Level Embedded Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$58.7K

$128.9K

$180.3K

How much do entry level embedded engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded engineer 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 does an entry level embedded engineer do?

An Entry Level Embedded Engineer helps design, develop, and test software that runs on embedded systems, such as microcontrollers or other specialized hardware. Their work often involves coding in languages like C or C++ to create firmware that controls devices ranging from household electronics to automotive systems. They also assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and sometimes hardware integration under the guidance of more experienced engineers. This role provides foundational experience in both software and hardware aspects of embedded systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level embedded engineer?

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Engineer, you need a solid understanding of C/C++ programming, embedded systems concepts, and a degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), hardware debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for developing reliable embedded solutions, troubleshooting hardware-software interactions, and collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level embedded engineers when transitioning from academic projects to real-world products?

Entry level embedded engineers often find that real-world projects involve stricter requirements for reliability, safety, and maintainability compared to academic assignments. They may need to quickly adapt to working with legacy code, constrained hardware resources, and industry-standard development tools. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—such as hardware designers, firmware developers, and QA engineers—requires strong communication and documentation skills. Understanding version control systems and participating in code reviews are also common aspects of the work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Embedded Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Iowa?

For Entry Level Embedded Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,936 per year, or $62 per hour.

Software Engineer - Displays

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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.

Application Developer - Display Systems

This position is associated with the design and development of advanced system displays and the applications each display would contain. Various roles are available that require use of C++, Qt/QML, and virtual machines that run Linux based operating systems. The developer will be creating robust operating system driven software for advanced displays in conjunction with the display systems team and product testing team.

** Note: 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 machine display systems.
  • Implement features, graphical interfaces, and system controls using C++, and Qt/QML.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, systems, and test engineers to define software requirements and system behavior.
  • Work within an Agile development environment to plan, implement, test, and deliver iterative software improvements.
  • Perform peer code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and provide solutions to both software and hardware interface challenges.
  • Develop and execute unit and system-level tests to validate software functionality and performance.
  • Utilize modern development tools such as VS Code, Git, and Linux-based build environments to manage and deliver quality software releases.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of software processes, tools, and practices.

Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Proficiency in Object Oriented Programming. (C++, Java, or C# Preferred)
  • Experience developing in Linux environments using VS Code or similar IDEs.
  • Practical experience with Git or equivalent version control systems.
  • Understanding of UI/UX development principles and application design.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills for both software and system-level issues.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including cross-functional and international collaboration.
  • Ability to interpret requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software solutions

Desired Skills and Attributes

  • Experience with 2D/3D graphics rendering and visualization.

  • Knowledge of OpenGL or OpenCV for display rendering or image processing.

  • Working knowledge of JavaScript or Python for scripting or automation.
  • Experience developing graphical user interfaces using Qt/QML.

  • Exposure to Full Stack Development concepts and frameworks.

  • Familiarity with CAN protocol or other machine communication interfaces.

  • Understanding of MQTT or similar message-based communication systems.

  • Passion for creating innovative software solutions that enhance operator experience in rugged, real-world environments.

  • Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to learning new technologies and tools.

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this role.

Salary Range: $65,000-$95,000/year commensurate with experience

Why work for RFA?

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided machine design and engineering services to industry leading customers dating back to 1943. Our primary focus is project based product 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, MN, Satellite office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.

We Offer Competitive Benefits:

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plans for Medical Expenses and Dependent Care
  • Extra Time Bonuses
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

#ZR