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Software Engineer University Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Check out some of our recent work featuring the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and many ... You'll produce detailed construction drawings using Autodesk Revit 3D modeling software, and become ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Ames, IA

$98K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from an accredited college or university * 8+ ... Working knowledge of MicroStation and/or Civil 3D software packages * Experience with finite ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from an accredited college or university * 8+ ... Working knowledge of MicroStation and/or Civil 3D software packages * Experience with finite ...

Senior Bridge Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Civil/Structural Engineering from an accredited college or university * 8+ ... Working knowledge of MicroStation and/or Civil 3D software packages * Experience with finite ...

Automation & Controls Engineer

Marshalltown, IA · On-site

$77K - $102K/yr

... university * 5+ years of progressive automation engineering and robotics experience in a manufactured products environment. * Experience with electrical drawing software such as AutoCAD Electrical.

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Software Engineer University information

What are the opportunities for career development and advancement as a Software Engineer in a university setting?

Software Engineers working at universities can pursue career growth by moving into senior engineering roles, project leadership, or transitioning to research and development positions. They often have the opportunity to contribute to innovative academic projects, collaborate with faculty and researchers, and attend conferences or pursue further certifications. Additionally, many universities encourage ongoing professional development and may offer support for specialized training or higher education. The collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment can open unique paths in academia, administration, or industry partnerships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Software Engineer University position, and why are they important?

Excelling as a Software Engineer University requires a strong grasp of computer science fundamentals, proficiency in programming languages such as Java, Python, or C++, and typically a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Experience with development frameworks, version control systems like Git, and relevant certifications (such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer) are highly valued. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication abilities set top candidates apart. These skills and qualities are essential for developing reliable software solutions, collaborating within academic or research teams, and adapting to evolving project requirements.

What is a Software Engineer University job?

A Software Engineer University job is a role designed for students or recent graduates pursuing a career in software development. These positions are typically internships, co-ops, or entry-level jobs that offer hands-on experience with coding, debugging, and collaborating with development teams. The goal is to provide early-career engineers with exposure to real-world projects while they continue learning industry best practices.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer University jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Software Engineer University jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Software Engineer University jobs in Iowa? For Software Engineer University jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Software Engineer University job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.
Lead Systems Engineer - Digital Ag

Lead Systems Engineer - Digital Ag

Iowa State University

Ames, IA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Iowa State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 537 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Title:
Lead Systems Engineer - Digital Ag
Job Group:
Professional & Scientific
Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree and 5 years of related experience
Job Description:
Build the Future of Agriculture
Design, build, and deliver integrated engineering systems that perform in the real world while growing your technical depth and leadership in a hands-on, industry-connected environment.
Who We Are
The Digital Ag Innovation Lab at Iowa State University partners with leading agricultural companies to design, build, and deploy next-generation technologies for agriculture. Our team works at the intersection of applied engineering, industry collaboration, and the land-grant mission, moving ideas from concept to prototype to field deployment.
Our vision is bold: to be the premier thought leader and partner in ag innovation.
Our mission guides everything we do: Innovate. Educate. Outreach.
  • We innovate with partners to create technology solutions that drive value into agriculture and our communities.
  • We educate to inspire and develop students and professionals to ensure a thriving workforce that drives success within our industry.
  • We outreach to share knowledge with farmers and ag businesses and promote practices that enhance their success.

We operate with four core values: Passion. Innovation. Collaboration. Excellence.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Lead Systems Engineer to drive the design, integration, and deployment of complex engineering systems. In this role, you will lead system-level efforts from concept through field deployment, ensuring solutions perform in real-world agriculture environments.
This is a hands-on role focuses on system architecture, integration, and execution. You will work across software, electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical domains while partnering closely with sponsor engineering teams to deliver integrated solutions.
The role offers the opportunity to expand your leadership impact by mentoring others, influencing technical direction, and taking on increasing ownership of projects and system outcomes.
What You'll Do
  • Lead end-to-end system engineering from concept, architecture, and requirements through deployment and field validation
  • Define and integrate cross-domain architectures and interfaces spanning mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, and software systems
  • Design, build, integrate, and validate complete physical systems for agricultural and off-road equipment
  • Develop system-level hardware and software solutions, including sensing, automation, and control systems
  • Build and test prototypes and vehicle-integrated systems, using data and analysis to drive performance improvements
  • Collaborate cross-functionally and with external partners to solve complex integration challenges and deliver solutions
  • Provide technical leadership through mentoring, project planning, execution, and sponsor communication

What You Bring
  • 5+ years of experience in engineering roles involving complex systems
  • Experience integrating hardware and software within real-world systems
  • Strong systems thinking across electrical, mechanical, software, and/or hydraulic domains
  • Experience with prototyping, testing, and validating engineered systems
  • Ability to troubleshoot and solve complex technical problems
  • Effective communication and collaboration skills, including working with external partners
  • Interest in growing into technical leadership and mentoring others

Technology & Systems You May Work With
Projects in the Digital Ag Innovation Lab focus on integrating advanced technologies into fully functional equipment systems. Depending on the project, you may work with:
  • Mechanical, hydraulic, and vehicle subsystems
  • Agricultural and off-road mobile equipment platforms
  • Vehicle communication networks (e.g., CAN Bus, Ethernet)
  • Embedded computing platforms and Linux-based systems
  • Sensors, data acquisition, and system integration
  • Robotics, machine vision, and autonomous system components
  • Engineering analysis and modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink)
  • Software/controls development (Matlab, Simulink, embedded C/C++)

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Advance degree in engineering or related field, or equivalent industry experience
  • Background in agricultural equipment, off-highway machinery, robotics, drone systems, or precision application technology (seed and chemical; liquid and dry systems)
  • Experience with field testing, validation, or performance benchmarking
  • Experience working with industry partners or customer-driven projects
  • Experience mentoring engineers or leading technical workstreams

Follow us here: www.isudigitalag.org.
Although this is a term position, it is expected to offer long-term opportunity, with the option for renewal.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
The candidate will be hired as a Research & Development Engineer III.
This position will remain open until filled.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
  • Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
  • Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
  • Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
  • Life insurance and long-term disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Various voluntary benefits and discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Wellbeing program

If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)
Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
May 24, 2029
Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work Period
Time Type:
Full time
Pay Grade:
PS812
Original Posting Date:
April 28, 2026
Posting Close Date:
Job Requisition Number:
R19067
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.

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