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System Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Collabera

Air System Development Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

... sub-system of a major and diverse project. Operates in a team environment, providing input to ... Analyzes assignments and determines engineering specifications which must be fulfilled for complex ...

Crystal Group

Senior Systems Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Select system components and technologies that not only have excellent performance and long life but also can be ruggedized for the military market segment of our business * Lead engineering activity ...

Crystal Group

Senior Systems Engineer

Hiawatha, IA · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

Select system components and technologies that not only have excellent performance and long life but also can be ruggedized for the military market segment of our business * Lead engineering activity ...

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All JobsSystem Engineer JobsSystem Engineer Jobs in Iowa

System Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$50.3K

$119.5K

$156.9K

How much do system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for system engineer in Iowa is $119,488.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,000.00 and $147,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are System Engineers?

System Engineers are professionals who design, implement, and manage complex systems within organizations. They are responsible for integrating various hardware and software components to ensure that systems function efficiently and reliably. Their job often involves troubleshooting, optimizing system performance, and ensuring security. System Engineers work across industries such as IT, aerospace, telecommunications, and manufacturing. They also collaborate with other teams to ensure that systems meet both technical and business requirements.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, stock options, and other incentives. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and work in high-demand industries like technology or finance.

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

To thrive as a System Engineer, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of computer systems and networks, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with operating systems (like Linux and Windows), automation tools, cloud platforms, and relevant certifications such as CompTIA or Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator are highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and clear communication set outstanding System Engineers apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex IT infrastructures that support business operations.

What is the difference between System Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystem EngineerNetwork Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Science, certifications like CompTIA Server+, Cisco CCNABachelor's in Computer Science or related, Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Network+
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and maintaining IT systems and infrastructureDesigning, configuring, and managing network infrastructure and connectivity
Employer & Industry UsageIT departments, tech companies, enterprise organizationsTelecommunications, data centers, large corporate networks
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for their roles in IT infrastructure managementRelated but focuses on network-specific tasks

While both System Engineers and Network Engineers work within IT infrastructure, System Engineers focus on overall system design, deployment, and maintenance, whereas Network Engineers specialize in network setup, security, and connectivity. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right roles for their technical needs.

Do systems engineers make a lot of money?

Systems engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with certifications and specialized skills can earn high salaries, often exceeding the national average for engineering roles.

What exactly do systems engineers do?

Systems engineers design, develop, and manage complex systems by integrating hardware, software, and network components to ensure functionality and efficiency. They analyze requirements, troubleshoot issues, and often use tools like CAD or simulation software, typically holding certifications such as INCOSE or Cisco. Their work involves collaboration across teams and maintaining system performance throughout the lifecycle.

What are some common challenges System Engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

System Engineers often collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, such as software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers. One of the main challenges is ensuring clear communication and alignment of technical requirements across different teams, which may have differing priorities and vocabularies. Additionally, System Engineers must balance system-level considerations like integration and scalability with specialized component needs. Adapting to rapidly changing project scopes and troubleshooting integration issues are also frequent hurdles, making strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills essential for success.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, systems engineering, and electrical engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and in high-demand industries like technology, finance, or aerospace. Executive or lead engineering roles often include compensation packages that reach or exceed this level, particularly when combined with bonuses and stock options.
More about System Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of System Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of System Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for System Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most System Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to System Engineer jobs in IA? For System Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
System Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various System Engineer 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, with an average salary of $119,488 per year, or $57.4 per hour.
Systems Engineer - Aerospace

Systems Engineer - Aerospace

Genova Technologies

Cedar Rapids, IA • Hybrid

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Why Genova?

If you're looking for the stability and benefits of a large company in a small company atmosphere, Genova is the place for you.

If you're looking to work in a community filled with nice people, Genova is the place for you.

If you're looking for a place that you'll want to stay with until you retire, Genova is the place for you.

Come and enjoy your workday at Genova Technologies! Join our team!

Genova Technologies has an immediate opening for a Systems Engineer in Cedar Rapids, IA.

What will you do?

The person in this role will support systems engineering activities for an ongoing Navigation and Positioning project. You will work alongside the software engineering team to migrate an existing tool to a new RTOS (LynxOS) platform, while adding additional features and adhering to DO-278 guidelines. This position requires Daily work to be completed at our Cedar Rapids, IA office, with some potential for Hybrid work.

This role will:

  • Lead and support systems engineering activities across the full program lifecycle, from requirements definition through verification and validation 
  • Develop, review, and manage system requirements, interface control documents (ICDs), and system architecture 
  • Apply DO-278A processes to ensure airworthiness and certification compliance 
  • Collaborate with software, hardware, and test engineers to ensure system integrity and traceability 
  • Conduct system-level trade studies, risk assessments, and failure mode analyses (FMEA/FHA) 
  • Support customer interactions, technical reviews, and program milestone events 
  • Develop and review test plans, test procedures, and verification reports.

What do you need?

The ideal candidate for this position will have:

  • 4-year degree in Science, Technology, or a similar field 
  • Minimum 7 years of experience in Systems Engineering within Aerospace, Defense, or Avionics 
  • Hands-on experience with DO-178C (Software Considerations in Airborne Systems) and/or DO-278A (Software Integrity Assurance Considerations for CNS/ATM Systems) 
  • Strong understanding of requirements management tools (e.g., DOORS or Jama) 
  • Experience with system-level V&V processes.

Skills we consider a plus include:

  • Experience in Navigation, Positioning, and/or Communications (Nav/Pos/Comms) systems 
  • Knowledge of FAA certification processes and regulatory documentation (TSO, STC, AC). 

What do you get?

Genova provides a competitive benefits package that includes:

· Medical, dental, vision coverage

· Life and disability insurance

· Paid holidays and scaling PTO

· A generous 401k plan

· And more!