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Hardware Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

XIL Integration Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... You will work across hardware, embedded systems, software, and automation frameworks to build ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

Hardware/Software Design: Work closely with other engineers to integrate FPGA designs with application software and embedded systems. Implement embedded software-based testing solutions where ...

EndoSec LLC

FPGA Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

Apply Now RTL, C/C++, Python, VHDL, Verilog, Tcl, cryptography, hardware, embedded software, System ... S. Government Security Clearance FPGA Engineer The EndoSec FPGA Engineer is responsible for the ...

Belcan

Engineering - Systems

Cedar Rapids, IA

$57.18/hr

The Mission Systems Multi-Domain Assured Navigation and Timing Applications (MANTA) Systems/Hardware department is looking for a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer, with a passion for ...

Saige Partners

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA

$130K - $171K/yr

Hardware Testing & System Validation Assist with debugging, troubleshooting, and validation of embedded hardware systems in laboratory and production environments. Configure and test programmable ...

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All JobsHardware Engineer JobsHardware Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Hardware Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$47.9K

$137.3K

$184.6K

How much do hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for hardware engineer in Iowa is $137,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,000.00 and $153,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior hardware engineers, especially those with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like FPGA design or ASIC development, and advanced certifications, can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level software engineers and certain engineering managers in technology companies may also reach this salary level, often with additional bonuses or stock options.

Can you make $250,000 as an engineer?

Hardware engineers can earn $250,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries or senior roles. Achieving this salary often requires specialized knowledge, certifications, and working in regions or companies that offer higher compensation packages.

What are hardware engineers?

Hardware engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and oversee the manufacturing of computer hardware, such as circuit boards, processors, memory devices, networks, and routers. They work closely with software engineers to ensure that hardware and software function together efficiently. Hardware engineers are involved in researching new technologies, improving existing hardware, and troubleshooting issues to enhance system performance. Their work is crucial in industries like computing, telecommunications, automotive, and consumer electronics.

What are some typical challenges Hardware Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Hardware Engineers often collaborate closely with software developers, product managers, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is aligning hardware specifications with software requirements, which may change throughout the development cycle. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as Hardware Engineers must balance technical constraints, cost considerations, and evolving project goals. Staying proactive in cross-team meetings and clarifying expectations early on can help reduce misunderstandings and ensure smoother project delivery.

What can a Hardware Engineer do?

A Hardware Engineer designs, develops, tests, and maintains physical electronic components and systems such as circuit boards, processors, and embedded systems. They often use tools like CAD software and may require knowledge of programming, electrical theory, and industry standards. Hardware Engineers work in labs or manufacturing environments and may hold certifications like IPC or IEEE standards.

What is the difference between Hardware Engineer vs Electrical Engineer?

AspectHardware EngineerElectrical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Electronics, or Computer EngineeringBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing hardware components, working in labs or officesDesigning electrical systems, working in labs, manufacturing, or field
Industry UsageElectronics, computer hardware, telecommunicationsPower systems, electronics, telecommunications, manufacturing

Hardware Engineers focus on designing and developing physical electronic components and systems, while Electrical Engineers work on electrical systems and power distribution. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate in technology industries.

What Does a Hardware Engineer Do?

A hardware engineer, or computer hardware engineer, specializes in all aspects of computer hardware, including testing, repairing, building, and maintaining its efficiency. As a hardware engineer, your responsibilities include developing and installing new hardware systems for businesses, providing tech support to users with hardware issues, along with designing and building new products for manufacturers. You may specialize in areas such as internal components, servers, electrical engineering, cellular and tablet devices, or traditional computers and networks.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced hardware engineers working in specialized fields such as semiconductor design, aerospace, or defense can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and stock options. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hardware Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hardware Engineer, a strong background in electrical engineering, circuit design, and computer architecture is essential, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, PCB layout tools, and hardware description languages, as well as certifications like Certified Hardware Design Engineer (CHDE), are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding hardware engineers apart. These skills and qualities are vital for designing reliable, high-performance hardware products that meet rigorous industry standards.
More about Hardware Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Hardware Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Hardware Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Hardware Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Hardware Engineer jobs in IA? For Hardware Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Hardware Engineer jobs near you
XIL Integration Engineer

XIL Integration Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.
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.
XIL Integration Engineer
As an XIL Integration Engineer, you will develop, integrate, and maintain Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), and hybrid XIL test environments supporting next-generation perception and automation technologies. You will work across hardware, embedded systems, software, and automation frameworks to build reliable end-to-end validation systems.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and integrate SIL, HIL, and hybrid XIL test systems for perception and automation applications.
  • Configure and support dSPACE-based simulation and test platforms.
  • Integrate camera, CAN, Ethernet, and embedded hardware into automated test environments.
  • Develop Python scripts and automation tools to orchestrate testing and system workflows.
  • Configure and maintain Linux-based development and test systems.
  • Debug complex hardware, software, networking, and embedded system issues.
  • Support playback of recorded data and closed-loop simulation environments.
  • Collaborate with software, controls, perception, and systems engineering teams to develop scalable validation solutions.
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks.
  • Continuously improve test infrastructure reliability, performance, and automation capabilities.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
  • Strong Python programming experience for scripting, automation, and system orchestration.
  • Strong Linux experience, including command-line tools, system configuration, and debugging.
  • Experience integrating hardware and software systems in complex engineering environments.
  • Experience working with embedded systems, ECUs, or hardware test benches.
  • Familiarity with version control tools such as Git.
  • Experience supporting automated testing or CI/CD environments using tools such as Jenkins or GitHub Actions.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work independently in an evolving engineering environment with minimal direction.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with SIL, HIL, MIL, or XIL simulation environments.
  • Experience using dSPACE hardware and software.
  • Knowledge of automotive communication protocols including CAN and Ethernet.
  • Familiarity with camera systems, perception pipelines, or image processing concepts.
  • Experience with embedded Linux environments.
  • Understanding of automation, robotics, autonomous systems, or advanced driver assistance technologies.
  • Experience developing scalable engineering test infrastructure.

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
  • 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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