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Sensor Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Analyze machine and sensor data to improve system performance and reliability. * Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions. * Translate customer ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Iowa City, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Skilled at teaching robot design, sensor programming, and autonomous behavior development. Guides students through building mechanical structures, wiring electronic circuits, programming ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr - Elec

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$88K - $149K/yr

In our Navigation & Sensor Systems, Test Engineering team located at our state-of-the-art facility in Cedar Rapids, Iowa that opened in 2022. Here you'll have the opportunity to design, develop, and ...

Arrow Electronics

Device Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$79K - $130K/yr

... Sensor-to-Sunset initiative and offers complete edge-to-cloud capabilities for its clients. Please visit www.einfochips.com for our portfolio of product engineering services across various industries ...

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Familiar with motion controls systems, servos, and modern sensor types and uses. * Experience in HMI and/or Operator Interface programming and configuration of any of the following software packages:

New

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Familiar with motion controls systems, servos, and modern sensor types and uses. * Experience in HMI and/or Operator Interface programming and configuration of any of the following software packages:

Stryten Energy

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA

$75K - $97K/yr

Familiar with motion controls systems, servos, and modern sensor types and uses. * Experience in HMI and/or Operator Interface programming and configuration of any of the following software packages:

STRYTEN ENERGY

Controls Engineer

Manchester, IA · On-site

$75K - $97K/yr

Familiar with motion controls systems, servos, and modern sensor types and uses. * Experience in HMI and/or Operator Interface programming and configuration of any of the following software packages:

Pacific Defense

Senior Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

... Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) Standard. These CMOSS /SOSA systems are used for multi ... Are you a talented and enthusiastic Senior Systems Engineer with outstanding technical ...

Pacific Defense

Senior Systems Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$102K - $140K/yr

... Sensor Open Systems Architecture (SOSA) Standard. These CMOSS /SOSA systems are used for multi ... Are you a talented and enthusiastic Senior Systems Engineer with outstanding technical ...

STRYTEN ENERGY

Controls Engineer-Manchester,Iowa

Winthrop, IA · On-site

$79K - $102K/yr

Familiar with motion controls systems, servos, and modern sensor types and uses. * Experience in HMI and/or Operator Interface programming and configuration of any of the following software packages:

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsSensor Engineer JobsSensor Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Sensor Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$41.3K

$99.9K

$163K

How much do sensor engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for sensor engineer in Iowa is $99,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,400.00 and $124,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Sensor Engineer, you need a solid background in electronics, signal processing, and sensor technologies, usually supported by a degree in electrical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, data acquisition systems, programming languages like C/C++, and relevant certifications such as Certified Measurement and Control Technician are highly valuable. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork set top performers apart in this field. These skills are crucial for designing reliable sensor systems, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring seamless integration into larger engineering projects.

What are Sensor Engineers?

Sensor Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain sensors and sensor systems used to detect and measure physical properties such as temperature, pressure, motion, or chemical composition. They work in various industries including automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and electronics to ensure sensors function accurately and reliably. Their responsibilities often include selecting materials, integrating sensors with electronic systems, troubleshooting issues, and optimizing sensor performance for specific applications.

What are some common challenges Sensor Engineers face when integrating new sensor technologies into existing systems?

Sensor Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new sensors and legacy hardware or software, managing data integrity amidst increased data streams, and addressing calibration or environmental factors that may impact sensor accuracy. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers and hardware engineers, is frequently required to troubleshoot integration issues and optimize system performance. Staying updated with rapidly evolving sensor technologies and industry standards is also essential for successful implementation.

What is the difference between Sensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectSensor EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Electrical, Mechanical, or related fields; certifications varyBachelor's in Electrical Engineering or related fields; certifications vary
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign firms, manufacturing plants, R&D departments
Industry UsageDeveloping and testing sensors for various applicationsDesigning electronic systems, circuit boards, and devices
Common Search/ComparisonSensor Engineer vs Electronics Engineer

Sensor Engineers focus on designing, developing, and testing sensors used in various industries, while Electronics Engineers work on designing electronic circuits and systems. Both roles require a background in electrical engineering and often collaborate in product development, but Sensor Engineers specialize in sensor technology specifically.

What job categories do people searching Sensor Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Sensor Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,925 per year, or $48 per hour.
Control Systems Engineer

Control Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 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.
Control Systems Engineer
As a Control Systems Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine control algorithms that improve machine performance, productivity, automation, and operator experience.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and implement control systems for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain, and machine implement systems.
  • Create and maintain control system models using MATLAB and Simulink.
  • Perform simulations and virtual testing to evaluate system performance.
  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, and control system tuning.
  • Analyze machine and sensor data to improve system performance and reliability.
  • Work with design, software, and test engineers to develop and validate control system solutions.
  • Translate customer and operator feedback into measurable product improvements.
  • Support product development activities from concept through production.
  • Create and maintain technical documentation related to control system development and testing.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
  • Understanding of control systems, hydraulics, powertrain systems, robotics, or vehicle dynamics.
  • Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles.
  • Familiarity with MATLAB, Simulink, or similar modeling tools.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate technical information clearly.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience designing, implementing, or validating control systems.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB, Simulink, Simscape, or similar modeling and simulation tools.
  • Experience with embedded software development or controls integration.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic systems, powertrain systems, robotics, or autonomous machine technologies.
  • Experience operating, testing, or developing construction, agricultural, mining, or other off-highway equipment.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensor technologies, and machine diagnostics.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$100,000 - 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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