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Lead Software Systems Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com ) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our ... Translation of implemented software into formal System/Software Requirement Documents. * Migration ...

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท On-site

$61.87/hr

Lead systems engineering activities across the product development lifecycle * Support requirements development, design, integration, verification, validation, and technical documentation efforts

Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA ยท Hybrid

$61.87/hr

Lead systems engineering activities across the product development lifecycle * Support requirements development, design, integration, verification, validation, and technical documentation efforts

Systems Engineer

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$56 - $64/hr

Collaborate with a cross-functional team of systems, software, integration, and test engineers to develop and deliver avionics system solutions. * Support development, analysis, and refinement of ...

Systems Engineer

Marion, IA ยท On-site

$56 - $64/hr

Collaborate with a cross-functional team of systems, software, integration, and test engineers to develop and deliver avionics system solutions. * Support development, analysis, and refinement of ...

Software Developer Lead

West Des Moines, IA ยท On-site

$113K - $142K/yr

Lead the architecture, design, and delivery of scalable, event-driven distributed systems ... software development practices that improve engineering quality, productivity, and delivery speed.

The Lead Software Engineer will serve as a hands-on Murex Developer and integration specialist ... Bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, math, engineering, finance, or another ...

Showing results 21-40

Lead Software Systems Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$85.5K

$187.2K

$237.6K

How much do lead software systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead software systems engineer in Iowa is $187,221.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $156,900.00 and $237,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Lead Software Systems Engineer do?

A Lead Software Systems Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design, development, and maintenance of complex software systems. They lead a team of engineers, coordinate project tasks, and ensure that software solutions meet technical and business requirements. This role often involves architectural planning, code reviews, and collaborating with stakeholders to define system functionalities. They also mentor junior engineers and help establish best practices within the development team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Software Systems Engineer?

To thrive as a Lead Software Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in software architecture, systems integration, and programming, usually backed by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), version control systems (Git), and frameworks for CI/CD, as well as certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, are highly valuable. Effective leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help guide teams and manage complex technical projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for delivering robust, scalable solutions and ensuring successful project outcomes in dynamic environments.

How does a Lead Software Systems Engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during large-scale projects?

As a Lead Software Systems Engineer, you will frequently work alongside product managers, QA specialists, and infrastructure teams to ensure that complex software systems are designed, developed, and deployed efficiently. Effective communication and coordination are vital, as you'll often translate business requirements into technical specifications, facilitate design reviews, and help resolve integration challenges across diverse teams. Success in this role depends on your ability to foster collaboration, balance multiple priorities, and provide technical leadership that guides the team toward project milestones while maintaining system quality and scalability.

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Lead Software Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Lead Software Systems Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Lead Software Systems Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $187,221 per year, or $90 per hour.

Lead Software Quality Assurance Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Job Description

Who will you be working with?

The Lead Software Quality Engineer will be part of a team developing world class Positive Train Control solutions. You will be responsible for ensuring the product quality for the end to end system by managing the development cycle process.

How will you make a difference?

This role provides leadership for process improvements, governance throughout the process, measurements system enhancements and tracking, and audit supervision.

What do we want to know about you?

  • BS degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related subject 
  • At least 4 years of experience in software development, implementation and/or quality
  • Strong knowledge of software development methodologies, tools, and processes
  • Strong understanding of Process Assurance activities, including Process Audits, Corrective and Preventative Actions
  • Strong team player 
  • High personal energy and self-accountability
  • Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills with both technical and nontechnical audiences 
  • Able to lead by influence while working in a matrix environment 

Desired Characteristics

  • MS degree in Computer Science, Engineering or a related subject 
  • 7 years of experience in software design, systems, or test
  • Familiar with root cause analysis techniques such as Five Whys, Fish Bone Diagrams, Fault Tree Analysis, etc.
  • Familiar with ISO requirements and lead auditor certified
  • Familiar with Safety Critical Software Development, or CENELEC Standard compliance
  • Familiar with CMMI requirements

What will your typical day look like?

  • Be responsible for the continuous improvement of process effectiveness and efficiency.  Support engineering teams developing, optimizing and implementing new processes, while ensuring compliance with Digital Intelligence and Wabtec policies. 
  • Lead operating rhythm to improve software First Pass Yield and defect escape rate
  • Act as a gatekeeper for software releases, ensuring process is properly followed, and design rigor appropriately applied. 
  • Develop and maintain metrics / measurement system for continuous improvement 
  • Support continuous product and process improvement through detailed failure analysis for non-conformances, and development of effective and compliant solutions to prevent recurrence of issues and quality escapes. 
  • Observe (audit) that documented standards, processes, and procedures are followed 

You may also be asked to perform other duties outside of your function or trade, for which adequate training will be provided if necessary.

More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, is available at mywabtecbenefits.com.

Additional Information

Our job titles may span more than one career level. The salary rate for this role is currently $68900-98200 The actual salary offered to a candidate may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as: training, transferable skills, work experience, education, business needs, market demands and work location. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. More information on offered benefits, which include health, welfare, and retirement, are available at mywabtecbenefits.com. Other benefit offerings for this role may include annual bonus, if eligible.

What could you accomplish in a place that puts People First?

At Wabtec, it’s not just about a job - it’s about the impact you make. When our people come together, we’re Expanding the Possible by continuously improving what we do and how we do it - for our clients and each other.

If you’re ready to revolutionize how the world moves for future generations, Wabtec is the place for you.
 

Who are we?

Wabtec is a leading global provider of equipment, systems, digital solutions, and value-added services for the freight and transit rail sectors. Drawing on more than 150 years of experience, we are leading the way in safety, efficiency, reliability, innovation, and productivity. Whether it’s freight, transit, ports, logistics, mining, industrial, or marine, our expertise, technologies, and people together – are accelerating the future of transportation. With roots that date back to George Westinghouse, Thomas Edison, and Louis Faiveley, Wabtec has always built technologies and implemented solutions for a variety of sectors that are critical to meeting the needs of customers and governments alike.

Our global team of about 30,000 employees worldwide delivers performance that moves the world forward. We’re lifelong learners, obsessed with better. Learn more at www.WabtecCorp.com.

Culture powers us and the possibilities.

We believe the best ideas come from a mix of experiences and backgrounds. At Wabtec, we strive every day to create a place where everyone belongs. We’re building a culture where leadership, inclusion and your unique perspective fuel progress.


We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome talent of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities, including race, gender, age, disability, veteran status and more.

Need accommodation? Just let us know - we’ve got you.