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Entry Level Embedded Software Jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA

Entry Level Embedded Software information

See Cedar Rapids, IA salary details

$68.5K

$150.1K

$170.3K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded software in Cedar Rapids, IA is $150,146.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,700.00 and $169,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level embedded software engineer?

Entry level embedded software engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test software that runs on specialized hardware devices, such as microcontrollers or embedded systems, often at the start of their careers. They typically work with programming languages like C or C++ and collaborate closely with hardware engineers to ensure software and hardware integration. These roles often involve tasks such as writing code for device drivers, debugging software, and performing basic testing, all under the guidance of more experienced engineers. Entry level positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to embedded systems, providing foundational experience in this field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in C/C++ programming, basic knowledge of embedded systems, and a relevant degree such as electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills are essential to developing reliable software, collaborating with hardware teams, and meeting project requirements in embedded system environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level embedded software engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level embedded software engineers often encounter challenges such as debugging hardware-software interactions, understanding real-time constraints, and adapting to unfamiliar development environments. New engineers can overcome these hurdles by actively seeking mentorship from senior team members, practicing with debugging tools, and studying relevant hardware documentation. Regular collaboration with hardware engineers and participation in code reviews can also help build confidence and technical competence, while ensuring smoother integration and project delivery.

What is the difference between Entry Level Embedded Software vs Entry Level Firmware Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Embedded SoftwareEntry Level Firmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems development, hardware integration, real-time OSFirmware development, microcontroller programming, hardware interfacing
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devicesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, industrial equipment
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Embedded Software and Entry Level Firmware Engineer roles often overlap in skills and industry usage. Both require knowledge of microcontrollers, programming languages like C, and understanding of hardware-software integration. The main difference lies in terminology: embedded software focuses broadly on software running on embedded systems, while firmware engineering emphasizes low-level programming directly on hardware. Both roles are essential in developing embedded products across various industries.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA?

For Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA are:

What cities near Cedar Rapids, IA are hiring for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs?

Cities near Cedar Rapids, IA with the most Entry Level Embedded Software job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Embedded Software job openings in Cedar Rapids, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $150,146 per year, or $72.2 per hour.

Electrical Engineering Coop (Spring/Summer 2027), Onsite with Security Clearance

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

BAE Systems
National Security and International Affairs • 10K+ employees

$46K - $62K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement

Posted 26 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 50 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description You don't see it, but it's there. Our employees across the nation work on the world's most advanced electronics - from detecting threats for F-35 pilots to illuminating the night for soldiers. Spanning air, land, sea, and space, we are developing the technology of tomorrow, delivered today. Drawing strength from our differences, we're innovating for the future. And you can, too. Our flexible work environment provides you a chance to change the world without giving up your personal life. We put our customers first - exemplified by our mission: "We Protect Those Who Protect Us®." BAE Systems continues to build on a strong history of providing navigation equipment to meet the evolving needs of commercial and military users. Our navigation solutions provided enhanced situational awareness and pinpoint accuracy for airborne and surface missions worldwide. Leading the way in GPS systems, our array of products cover airborne, precision-guided munitions, ground handheld receivers and embedded applications. Sound like a team you want to be a part of? Come build your career with BAE Systems. Full-time onsite:
Because of the need for consistent, in-person collaboration and /or the requirement to perform all work on site due to the nature of this particular role, it will be performed full-time on site.
This means work will be conducted on location at a BAE Systems facility 100% of the time. **The duration of this position runs from January through mid-August, 2027. Candidate must be available for the entire duration.** Join us at our Cedar Rapids, Iowa location. The Navigation and Sensor Systems organization is a growing business area developing the next generation of advanced military navigation systems. If you have an Electrical Engineering background, then this is the place to be. Pilots may fly aircraft, but our navigation systems create the route and keep those pilots on course. What are you waiting for! Come be part of the immediate solution in Cedar Rapids and "plant your flag". Engineering:
Our engineers are the lifeblood of our company and we're more than 5,000 strong. With our robust offering of educational and career development opportunities, your chances to grow are limitless. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about learning, open to mentoring, coaching, and developing problem-solving skills The Role:
* You will work closely with a hardware engineering team to support ground and airborne navigation products
* You will assist with capturing technical requirements
* You will create electrical design artifacts including schematics, printed circuit boards (PCB), and circuit card assemblies
* You will perform preliminary design and analysis activities * You will support integration and verification testing
* You will generate and review electrical design documents, drawings, procedures and reports.
* You will assist in transitioning products to manufacturing and provide electrical design support
* You will support design and integration efforts with other engineering disciplines including mechanical, software, systems, and test engineering as necessary.Who You Are:
* Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills
* Possess good organizational skills
* Have the ability to handle multiple tasks and assignments
In this position, you will participate in BAE Systems' nationwide LEAP Internship & Co-op Program, where you will Learn, Engage, Apply, and Progress within the company. The LEAP Program will provide you with the opportunity to work alongside experienced professionals on impactful projects, engage in career development opportunities, and network with our business leaders and the other students in the program. Required Education, Experience, & Skills Required Education, Experience, & Skills:
* Must be within or have completed your junior year of a four year degree program in a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering or related field
* Experience with schematic generation
* Experience with basic test equipment like power supplies and digital multimeters
* Ability to obtain a DoD Security Clearance Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * Going into your Senior year for a Bachelors of Science in Electrical Engineering
* High motivation to solve problems and continuously improve existing products
* Ability to work with a diverse team
* Knowledgeable with creating printed circuit board designs
* Familiar with schematic capture software
* Experience with oscilloscopes and frequency generators Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $46437 - $62721 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance. About BAE Systems Electronic Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support. Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US