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Software Engineer Independent Contractor Jobs in Iowa

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Embedded Software Engineer In this role, you will collaborate with software developers, test ... Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative engineering ...

Cottingham & Butler

Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA

As a Full-Stack Software Engineer at Cottingham & Butler, you will play a crucial role in building ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Why Join Us? * Innovative Environment: Our ...

Cottingham & Butler

Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

As a Full-Stack Software Engineer at Cottingham & Butler, you will play a crucial role in building ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Why Join Us? * Innovative Environment: Our ...

Cottingham & Butler

Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

As a Full-Stack Software Engineer at Cottingham & Butler, you will play a crucial role in building ... Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Why Join Us? * Innovative Environment: Our ...

Actalent

Software Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA · Hybrid

Embedded C++ Software Engineer - Avionics Display Systems This role focuses on designing ... Ability to work independently in a remote setting while coordinating closely with distributed teams.

Apex Systems

Sr. Software Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$119K - $157K/yr

Job#: 3036110 Sr. Software Engineer Location: Des Moines, Iowa (Partial Remote) Role Overview Our ... and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply.

Harris

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Software Engineer will work with colleagues to deliver reliable and scalable applications that ... Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a development team * Participate in ...

Integritymarketing

Software Engineer I

Urbandale, IA · On-site

Collaborate with product, design, and fellow engineers through code reviews, architecture ... Integrity's employees support hundreds of thousands of independent agents who serve the needs of ...

Seek Now

Field Inspector Contractor

Clarinda, IA · On-site

Summary Seek Now is searching for capable 1099 independent sub-contractors to provide accurate ... Document inspections using our proprietary software application on your smartphone device * Be ...

Seek Now

Field Inspector Contractor

Clarinda, IA · On-site

Summary Seek Now is searching for capable 1099 independent sub-contractors to provide accurate ... Document inspections using our proprietary software application on your smartphone device * Be ...

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All JobsSoftware Engineer Independent Contractor JobsSoftware Engineer Independent Contractor Jobs in Iowa

Software Engineer Independent Contractor information

See Iowa salary details

$59.6K

$138.6K

$193K

How much do software engineer independent contractor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for software engineer independent contractor in Iowa is $138,564.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,700.00 and $162,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software engineer independent contractor?

A Software Engineer Independent Contractor is a self-employed professional who provides software development services to clients on a contractual basis. Unlike full-time employees, independent contractors work on specific projects, often for multiple clients, and handle their own taxes, benefits, and work schedules. They may be responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software solutions based on client requirements. This role offers flexibility and autonomy but requires strong time management and business skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software engineer independent contractor?

To thrive as a Software Engineer Independent Contractor, you need proficient coding abilities, problem-solving skills, and a solid understanding of software development methodologies, often supported by a degree in computer science or related experience. Familiarity with popular programming languages, project management tools, code repositories like Git, and relevant certifications such as AWS Certified Developer or Scrum Master are commonly expected. Excellent self-management, communication, and client relationship skills help you stand out in this position. These abilities are crucial for delivering high-quality solutions, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring client satisfaction while working independently.

What are the typical challenges faced by software engineer independent contractors, and how can they be addressed?

As a Software Engineer Independent Contractor, common challenges include managing multiple projects simultaneously, adapting to different client expectations, and ensuring consistent communication across remote teams. Successful contractors often establish clear project scopes, set realistic timelines, and utilize productivity tools to stay organized. Building strong client relationships and proactively addressing feedback can help mitigate misunderstandings and foster repeat business. Additionally, investing in ongoing learning and networking can open opportunities for higher-value projects and career growth. Embracing flexibility and self-discipline is key to thriving in this dynamic, self-driven work environment.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Iowa?

For Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs in Iowa are:

Software Engineer Independent Contractor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Engineer Independent Contractor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,564 per year, or $66.6 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Waterloo, IA • On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 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.
Embedded Software Engineer
In this role, you will collaborate with software developers, test engineers, and cross-functional stakeholders to design, develop, validate, and optimize embedded software for advanced vehicle systems. You will contribute to the development of steering and braking software for agricultural equipment, delivering high-quality features that enhance machine performance while supporting functional safety objectives.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software for steering and braking control systems.
  • Collaborate with software engineers, test engineers, and system stakeholders throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Develop embedded applications using C/C++ and/or MATLAB.
  • Interpret and implement software requirements into reliable, maintainable code.
  • Participate in software integration, validation, debugging, and system tuning activities.
  • Support software verification to ensure functionality, quality, and functional safety objectives are achieved.
  • Troubleshoot software and system issues using appropriate development and diagnostic tools.
  • Participate in planning, prioritization, and continuous improvement activities within an Agile development environment.
  • Contribute to software documentation and technical reviews.
  • Support development and validation efforts on production hardware and prototype systems.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
  • Experience developing embedded software using C/C++ and/or MATLAB.
  • Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Experience working with embedded software development processes.
  • Ability to interpret and implement software requirements.
  • Understanding of software development lifecycle and software delivery processes.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative engineering team.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with CAN J1939 communication protocol
  • Previous experience in a structured software development process
  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers
  • Experience with CAN sniffers or similar tools to use for troubleshooting communication issues
  • Ability to interpret software requirements and state diagrams
  • Knowledge of common software development tools such as VSCode, Github, Docker, etc.
  • General machine knowledge of industrial equipment or machinery

Visa Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$120,000 - 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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