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Senior Embedded Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Embedded Electrical Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$130K - $171K/yr

Embedded Software & Firmware Development Design, develop, test, and debug firmware for a variety of ... Configure and test programmable devices at the register level. Utilize electrical test equipment ...

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Senior Embedded Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$70.9K

$136K

$181.7K

How much do senior embedded software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior embedded software engineer in Iowa is $135,981.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $152,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Senior Embedded Software Engineer?

A Senior Embedded Software Engineer is an experienced professional who designs, develops, tests, and maintains software that runs on embedded systems—specialized computing devices that are not traditional computers, such as automotive control systems, medical devices, or consumer electronics. They often work closely with hardware engineers to ensure software integrates seamlessly with hardware components. Senior engineers typically lead projects, mentor junior staff, and contribute to system architecture and design decisions. Their expertise includes programming languages like C or C++, real-time operating systems, and debugging tools specialized for embedded environments.

What is the difference between Senior Embedded Software Engineer vs Embedded Software Engineer?

AspectSenior Embedded Software EngineerEmbedded Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field; experience in embedded systemsBachelor's degree in relevant field; entry-level to mid-level experience
Work EnvironmentDesigning, developing, testing embedded systems for hardware productsDeveloping firmware and software for embedded devices, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, automotive, aerospace, consumer electronicsSimilar industries, often as part of product development teams

The main difference between a Senior Embedded Software Engineer and an Embedded Software Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Senior engineers typically have more expertise, lead projects, and mentor junior staff, while embedded software engineers focus on developing and testing embedded code. Both roles require similar technical skills and industry knowledge, but senior roles involve greater leadership and strategic input.

What are some common challenges Senior Embedded Software Engineers face when integrating software with new hardware platforms?

Senior Embedded Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring software compatibility with diverse hardware architectures, optimizing for limited memory or processing power, and debugging hardware-software interactions. These engineers must frequently collaborate with hardware teams to resolve timing issues, manage device drivers, and ensure reliable system performance. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a deep understanding of both hardware constraints and software design.

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

To thrive as a Senior Embedded Software Engineer, you need deep expertise in embedded C/C++ programming, real-time operating systems (RTOS), and a strong background in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with hardware debugging tools (such as oscilloscopes and logic analyzers), version control systems (like Git), and relevant certifications (e.g., ARM Accredited Engineer) is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and project leadership skills help you collaborate effectively and mentor junior engineers. These competencies ensure the creation of robust, efficient, and reliable embedded systems critical for product success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Senior Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Senior Embedded Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Senior Embedded Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Senior Embedded Software Engineer job openings:
Senior Software Engineer- Datalink Products (Onsite)

Senior Software Engineer- Datalink Products (Onsite)

Collins Aerospace

Cedar Rapids, IA

$119K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 248 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 61 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-05-14

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-131 ~ 5450 C Ave NE ~ BLDG 131

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position.​ The company will not seek an export authorization for this role.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world. Collins Aerospace 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.

We are currently seeking qualified candidates for a Senior Software Engineer role within our Datalink Products Software Organization. The DatalinkRIU team develops the Communication Management function for airborne safety router software, as well as Signal Processor software responsible for data concentration and audio management. Our team is made up of cross-functional engineers working in an Agile environment, focused on the design and development of software products. Our culture is highly collaborative and engaged. We value our customers, our products, and our people. If you are looking to do meaningful work, enjoy what you do, and be part of an exceptional team, this opportunity may be a great fit.

As a Senior Software Engineer on the Datalink team, you will contribute to the development of a variety of products across DO-178B/C DAL A/C/D levels and support all phases of the project lifecycle. This role includes designing and developing embedded software, primarily in C and C++, in compliance with DO-178B/C processes and standards. In this role, You will have the opportunity to support a diverse portfolio of customers and platforms across Commercial, Business & Regional, and Military avionics, while gaining broad exposure to safety-critical embedded software development in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.

This is an onsite position in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

What you will do:

  • Design, code, test, and provide ongoing support for embedded systems software to meet technical and customer requirements.
  • Design and code based on low-level software requirements.  Build, test and deliver real-time embedded software to target environments in support of program and customer commitments.
  • Assist with system level testing, working closely with cross functional areas to coordinate desired solutions, documenting problem reports and working resolution activities. 
  • Participate in Design and Code Reviews with other members of the team to identify and eliminate problems early in the development process.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience
  • Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role
  • Working knowledge of C, C++, Python.
  • Knowledge of designing new software systems using object-oriented design principles.  Demonstrated technical leadership capability for working with internal organizations and external customers. 
  • Knowledge of air/ground messaging and related data link protocols (ARINC 429, ARINC 618, VDL Mode 2, TCP/IP, ATN OSI etc.), aircrew human-machine interface design.

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Network protocol knowledge and Real Time Operating System knowledge. 
  • Knowledge of aircraft systems (CMU, RIU, EICAS, MCDU, FMS, ACMS, etc.) and their function in the aircraft. 

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!

Avionics delivers advanced cockpit displays, vision systems, and comprehensive digital solutions for global government, commercial and business aviation customers. We provide connectivity and managed data services to ensure safety and seamless communication for passengers, crews, and militaries, from aircraft and airports to air traffic management. Join us in creating solutions that connect the world, one flight at a time. Start your application today.

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. Regardless of your role type, collaboration and innovation are critical to our business and all employees will have access to digital tools so they can work with colleagues around the world – and access to Collins sites when their work requires in-person meetings.

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.

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 86,800 USD - 165,200 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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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018