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Systems Engineer Jobs in Dubuque, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Systems Engineer A Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining clear, comprehensive requirements documentation that guides both software development and testing processes for ...

RFA Engineering

Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Systems Engineer A Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining clear, comprehensive requirements documentation that guides both software development and testing processes for ...

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

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 ...

RFA Engineering

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

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 ...

Rfamec

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70 - $100/hr

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 ...

New

RFA Engineering

Electromechanical Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Electromechanical Engineer As an Electromechanical Engineer you will support the design and development of precision construction technology systems. This role will focus on integrating mechanical ...

RFA Engineering

Electromechanical Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Electromechanical Engineer As an Electromechanical Engineer you will support the design and development of precision construction technology systems. This role will focus on integrating mechanical ...

RFA Engineering

Software Engineer - Displays

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Application Developer - Display Systems This position is associated with the design and development of advanced system displays and the applications each display would contain. Various roles are ...

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Systems Engineer information

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$50.5K

$120K

$157.5K

How much do systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for systems engineer in Dubuque, IA is $119,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,400.00 and $148,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a systems engineer?

Systems engineers are professionals who design, integrate, and manage complex systems throughout their life cycles. They work across various industries, ensuring that all aspects of a project or system—hardware, software, processes, and people—work together efficiently and effectively. Systems engineers coordinate between different engineering teams, address technical and organizational challenges, and ensure requirements are met. Their role often involves both big-picture thinking and attention to detail to deliver reliable and scalable solutions.

What does a systems engineer do?

The role of a systems engineer varies based on the company they work for, but in every industry systems engineers use computerized systems to keep track of all the moving parts within their organizations. The term systems engineer usually refers to a computer systems engineer, which combines several disciplines to create, purchase, and install a computer system that suits the needs of each particular client. They will also work in a hands-on manner during the installation, acquisition, testing, and implementation phases of the project. Duties typically include making recommendations for scalability, troubleshooting any problems that arise during the use of the system, reviewing a company’s security requirements, and recommending security measures to allow the company to avoid compromising any sensitive data.

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

To thrive as a Systems Engineer, you need a strong background in systems architecture, troubleshooting, and integration, typically supported by a degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with operating systems (like Linux and Windows), virtualization platforms, scripting languages, and certifications such as CompTIA, Cisco (CCNA), or Microsoft (MCSA) are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualifications ensure the design, implementation, and maintenance of reliable, scalable systems critical for organizational operations.

How does a systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during a project lifecycle?

Systems Engineers often serve as a bridge between various technical and non-technical teams, including software developers, network specialists, project managers, and end users. Throughout a project, they participate in requirements gathering, design reviews, and integration testing, ensuring that each component fits seamlessly within the overall system. Effective communication and documentation are crucial, as Systems Engineers must translate complex technical concepts into actionable tasks for diverse stakeholders. This collaborative approach not only streamlines problem-solving but also helps deliver robust, scalable solutions.

What is the difference between Systems Engineer vs Network Engineer?

AspectSystems EngineerNetwork Engineer
CertificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Juniper JNCIA
Work EnvironmentDesigning, implementing, and managing IT systems and infrastructureDesigning, configuring, and maintaining network hardware and connectivity
Industry UsageIT, technology, enterprise solutionsTelecommunications, IT, networking service providers
Common TasksSystem integration, troubleshooting, server managementNetwork setup, routing, switching, security

While both roles involve technical expertise in IT infrastructure, Systems Engineers focus on overall system architecture and integration, whereas Network Engineers specialize in network hardware, connectivity, and security. Understanding these differences helps employers and professionals align skills with job requirements.

Is a systems engineer a high paying job?

Systems engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other technical roles, with compensation varying based on experience, certifications, and location. They often work in industries such as technology, aerospace, and defense, where specialized skills and knowledge of tools like network systems and software are valued. Advanced certifications and experience can lead to higher pay levels in this field.

Is a systems engineer a stressful job?

Systems engineers often face stressful situations due to tight deadlines, complex problem-solving, and the need for high reliability in systems. The role can involve long hours and on-call responsibilities, especially during system outages or critical updates, but it also offers opportunities for problem-solving and technical growth.
More about Systems Engineer jobs

What cities near Dubuque, IA are hiring for Systems Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dubuque, IA with the most Systems Engineer job openings:

Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Systems Engineer job openings in Dubuque, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,961 per year, or $57.7 per hour.

Systems Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $110K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (;/strong> 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.
Systems Engineer
A Systems Engineer is responsible for developing and maintaining clear, comprehensive requirements documentation that guides both software development and testing processes for construction equipment. This role ensures that system requirements are accurately defined, traceable, and aligned with product functionality, enabling efficient design, validation, and delivery of high-quality solutions.
Responsibilities
  • Create clear, concise, and well-structured requirements documentation that defines system functionality, performance criteria, and design constraints.
  • Develop written documentation based on UI/UX specifications provided.
  • Analyze and prioritize requirements, ensuring they are complete, testable, and meet customer needs and industry standards.
  • Provide feedback and mentoring in the creation of written test plans and testing procedures.
  • Working with systems engineers in adjacent groups to ensure alignment of key interfaces between systems and machines.
  • Translation of informal feature descriptions and implementation details (as provided by others on the design team) into formal System/Software Requirement Documents.
  • Translation of implemented software into formal System/Software Requirement Documents.
  • Migration and translation of existing requirements documents into new system documentation toolsets currently being developed for use across all product lines.
  • Management of work artifacts (Features/Stories/Bugs) for tracking workflow of systems and software development in Azure DevOps (ADO)
  • Be able to thrive in a fast-paced, multi-faceted team environment.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related experience/degree.
  • Understanding of Agile delivery process
  • A robust understanding of requirement authoring practices, including industry experience in documenting product or feature requirements.
  • Demonstrated capability in using commonly available tools for documentation of requirements (Primarily Microsoft Office)
  • Ability to clearly articulate and communicate details related to interfaces, system architectures, feature development, and software delivery timelines to others across a variety of teams.

Desired Attributes
  • Demonstrated capability in using Vector PreeVision as a tool for requirement authoring.
  • Demonstrated capability using Azure DevOps for Agile workflow planning and management.
  • Previous experience in software or systems development, particularly on construction or industrial machinery.

Pay Range: $70,000-$110,000/year 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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