1

Software Developer Contract Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

COBOL Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49 - $66.25/hr

Contract (W2/C2C) Job Overview: We are seeking a seasoned COBOL Developer with 6+ years of ... Participate in the full software development life cycle including requirements gathering, design ...

Showing results 41-60

Software Developer Contract information

See Iowa salary details

$45.1K

$105.1K

$155.9K

How much do software developer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contract in Iowa is $105,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,500.00 and $122,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software developer contract?

A Software Developer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a developer is hired for a specific duration, typically through a contract agreement. Contractors may work independently, for an agency, or directly with a company to develop, test, and maintain software applications. These roles often offer flexibility but may not include benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Contract developers are usually paid hourly or per project and may work remotely or on-site depending on the employer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software developer contract?

A successful Software Developer Contract requires strong programming abilities, solid knowledge of software development methodologies, and relevant project or domain expertise, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, as well as tools such as Git, Agile frameworks, and certification in areas like AWS or Scrum, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, effective communication, and an ability to quickly integrate into new teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable contract developers to deliver high-quality solutions while efficiently navigating diverse projects and rapidly changing work environments.

What are the typical work arrangements and expectations for contract software developers?

Contract Software Developers are usually hired for specific projects or defined timeframes, which can range from several weeks to multiple months, often working remotely or on-site depending on client needs. They are expected to quickly understand project requirements, deliver code efficiently, and collaborate with both in-house teams and other contractors, maintaining flexibility to adapt to different workflows and tools. Because contract roles may not include the same onboarding experience as permanent positions, self-motivation and strong independent work habits are important. This work arrangement provides valuable exposure to various industries and technologies, often expanding a developer’s professional network and enhancing career versatility.

Are software developers still in high demand?

Yes, software developers remain in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, the need for new applications, and the growth of cloud computing and cybersecurity. Strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, along with experience in agile environments, enhance job prospects for contract software developers.

How much do contract software developers make?

Contract software developers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates can vary based on skills such as proficiency in specific programming languages, frameworks, and the duration of the contract.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Software Developer Contract jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Software Developer Contract job openings:

Infographic showing various Software Developer Contract job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,052 per year, or $50.5 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer - Mission Sensor Manager (Onsite)

Raytheon Technologies

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$119K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Date Posted:
2026-07-31
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-182 ~ 1100 Cimmie Ave Ne ~ BLDG 182
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.
Security Clearance Type:
None/Not Required
Security Clearance Status:
Not Required
At RTX, the world's 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.
Help ensure mission-critical avionics software performs flawlessly in the real world. As a Senior Software Engineer supporting Mission Sensors, Weapons, and IFF (Identification Friendly or Foe) avionics systems, you'll play a key role in software development, software integration, test development, and verifying complex software solutions that support aerospace and defense applications. You'll work within a highly collaborative Agile team, helping develop and translate requirements into robust software solutions and test strategies while supporting system integration and verification efforts. If you enjoy solving complex technical challenges, improving engineering processes, and working across disciplines to deliver reliable systems, this role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
What You Will Do:
  • You will support software engineering activities within an Agile development environment, helping develop and translate system and software requirements into effective software, test and verification strategies (heavy focus of this role).
  • You will develop automated and semi-automated test scripts using Python to validate software functionality and system performance (heavy focus of this role).
  • You will update and maintain our Software products using Ada/C.
  • You will verify software builds in integrated lab environments and support formal verification events for major program deliveries (heavy focus of this role).
  • You will collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to refine system requirements and design solutions that meet customer needs.
  • You will present technical progress and status updates to Agile team members and engineering leadership.
  • You will contribute to improving test development processes, tools, and best practices while maintaining compliance with company standards.
  • You will help navigate through the bids & pursuits, adhering to Collins Processes.
  • Mentor younger engineers through Software Engineering tasks.

What You Will Learn:
  • You will gain experience integrating Line Replaceable Unit (LRU) software supporting mission sensor, weapons, and IFF avionics systems.
  • You will deepen your expertise across multiple phases of the aerospace systems lifecycle within a collaborative Agile environment.
  • You will strengthen your software engineering skills by supporting complex software development, verification and integration efforts.
  • If desired, you may have the ability to grow into Product Owner, Scrum Master, and/or Cost Account Manager type roles.

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.
  • Experience working within Agile development teams.
  • Experience developing software requirements.
  • Experience with testing using Python.
  • Experience with engineering tools such as DOORS, PREP, TLBD, ALM, JIRA, Enterprise Architect, or similar.
  • Experience with systems integration, test execution, and test results documentation

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Experience with Software development in Ada/C.
  • Experience (military or civil aircraft) in avionics systems.
  • Avionics integration and lab test experience.
  • Embedded software integration experience.
  • Working knowledge / understanding of data busses and protocols (Ethernet, MIL-STD-1553B, and ARINC-429).
  • Hands-on experience in systems and software integration including experience with design, development, and testing of customer hardware and software systems & systems of systems of high complexity.
  • Experience interacting with development teams to resolve discrepancies and issues.
  • Experience problem solving and debugging.

What We Offer:
Benefits:
Some of our competitive benefits package includes:
  • 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!

This role may be eligible for relocation.
Learn More & Apply Now!
Collins Aerospace makes modern flight possible. Of course, that wouldn't be possible without the capabilities and technologies of our organization, as well as our engineers - a highly skilled, accomplished network that spans more than 180 sites, 24 countries and 6 Strategic Business Units (SBUs).
Our industry-leading experts are setting the standards for the aerospace industry and paving the way for the future. But as new challenges present themselves, we need fresh, creative and motivated minds to overcome these hurdles, help us break barriers and achieve new levels of innovation. Do you have what it takes to join a global organization that doesn't shy away from big opportunities? If so, we invite you to join our ranks and create the next generation of aerospace technologies.
Together, we will nurture an engineering culture that values intellectual curiosity, risk takers and integrity. A place where we will challenge ourselves, our teams, and the status quo and where we will work to find a way - the right way - to achieve what others can only dream of.
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.
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.
Privacy Policy and Terms:
Click on this link to read the Policy and Terms