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Systems Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

SYSTEMS ENGINEER CEDAR RAPIDS IOWA Must be onsite Must haves: * Must have aerospace experience * 5+ of systems engineering experience * Test cases/requirement experience Description of Duties ...

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$16

$46

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How much do systems programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for systems programmer in Iowa is $46.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.85 and $58.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a systems programmer?

A systems programmer is a skilled computer technician that develops application software with a variety of programming languages. In this career, you must have experience working with a variety of operating systems including Windows, Linux, and mainframe. Your job duties include developing application programs, testing the functionality of the software, and troubleshooting issues found by users. You also work on a variety of computer hardware such as servers and mainframes, so your skills must extend beyond software and coding. You can find systems programmer positions with third-party IT companies and in the IT departments of larger companies.

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

To thrive as a Systems Programmer, you need expertise in low-level programming languages (such as C or Assembly), operating system concepts, and a degree in computer science or related field. Familiarity with mainframe or server environments, system debugging tools, and certifications in relevant platforms (like IBM z/OS or Linux) are highly beneficial. Strong problem-solving, analytical thinking, and effective communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for optimizing system performance, maintaining reliability, and ensuring seamless integration between hardware and software components.

What are some typical challenges faced by systems programmers, and how can they overcome them?

Systems programmers often face challenges such as debugging low-level code, ensuring compatibility across different hardware or operating systems, and addressing performance bottlenecks. These tasks require a deep understanding of computer architecture, operating systems, and programming languages like C or Assembly. Collaborating closely with other IT professionals, such as network administrators and application developers, can help identify and resolve issues more efficiently. Staying current with industry developments and using robust version control and debugging tools are also essential strategies for overcoming these challenges.

What is the difference between Systems Programmer vs Software Developer?

AspectSystems ProgrammerSoftware Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in computer science or related field, with knowledge of low-level programmingUsually holds a degree in computer science, software engineering, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentWorks closely with operating systems, hardware, and system utilities in enterprise or technical settingsDevelops applications and software solutions for various platforms, often in business or consumer environments
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT departments, tech companies, and organizations managing complex systemsWidely employed across tech firms, startups, and any industry requiring software solutions

While both roles involve programming, Systems Programmers focus on low-level system software and hardware interaction, whereas Software Developers create applications and user-facing software. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is system programming in demand?

System programming remains in demand due to the need for developing and maintaining operating systems, device drivers, and embedded systems. Professionals with skills in languages like C and C++, along with knowledge of hardware interfaces, are sought after in industries such as technology, manufacturing, and telecommunications.

What does a systems programmer do?

A systems programmer develops, maintains, and optimizes system software such as operating systems, device drivers, and utility programs. They work closely with hardware and software components, often using programming languages like C or Assembly, and may troubleshoot system issues or improve performance. Strong knowledge of computer architecture and debugging tools is essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Systems Programmer jobs in Iowa?

For Systems Programmer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Systems Programmer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Systems Programmer jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Systems Programmer jobs in IA?

For Systems Programmer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Systems Programmer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 84% In-person, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,186 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

Senior Engineer, Systems Engineering

Collins Aerospace

Cedar Rapids, IA

$135K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Collins Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 251 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-17

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-IA-CEDAR RAPIDS-106 ~ 400 Collins Rd NE ~ BLDG 106

Position Role Type:

Unspecified

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Security Clearance Type:

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

Rockwell Collins Inc. d/b/a Collins Aerospace has an opening for a Senior Engineer, Systems Engineering in Cedar Rapids, IA.

Joining Collins Aerospace isn’t just about finding a job; it’s about embarking on a journey to redefine the future of aerospace technology.

What YOU will do

  • Engage in all phases of program life cycle, including bidding, planning and execution.
  • Estimate, track, own and report project technical, cost and schedule.
  • Mentor and coach other team members in additional areas, including project execution.
  • Perform all phases of the system development lifecycle including requirements capture, system design and modeling, integrating with hardware and software components, system validation and verification.
  • Work with external customers to document operational scenarios, develop system requirements, define system interfaces, and perform system validation testing.
  • Work with other engineers to document derived requirements, define internal system interfaces, develop system architectures, integrate system components, and perform system verification.
  • Identify and recommend process, system, and product improvements to enhance performance and improve efficiency.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Must possess at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field and at least 5 years of progressive experience as a Software Engineer, Systems Engineer or related role in the Aerospace Industry. In the alternative, must possess at least a master’s degree or its equivalent in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering or a related field and at least 3 years of experience as a Software Engineer, Systems Engineer or related role in the Aerospace Industry would be acceptable.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with: Avionics system/software development, including familiarity with business or regional aircraft architectures.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with: Aircraft/Avionics standards (DO-178B/C, ARP 4754, and/or DO-297).
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with: Systems/Software engineering processes and tools such as: DOORS, PREP, JIRA, JAMA, Subversion, GitLab, and Agile Scrum.
  • Must possess at least 3 years of experience with: project management, including cost account management, developing and managing schedules for complex projects, and bidding technical scope/cost.
  • Must possess at least 2 years of experience with: requirements, test, validation, verification, and integration activities for an architecturally complex system/subsystem.
  • Non-US Person - Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company’s immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role. 

Learn More & Apply Now!

Avionics: Our Avionics team advances flight deck solutions, airborne communications, vision systems, sensors and fire protection for commercial and military customers around the world. That means we’re helping people reach their destination safely and keeping pilots, passengers, flight crews, airlines, airports and military personnel connected and informed. And we’re providing industry-leading fire protection and safety systems that our customers can count on when it matters most. Are you ready to learn from the most knowledgeable experts in the industry, develop the technologies of tomorrow and reach new heights in your career? Join our Avionics team today.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

The salary range is $135,803.00 to $165,200.00 USD per year. 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.

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.

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.

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About Collins Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Collins Aerospace, a Raytheon Technologies company, is a leader in technologically advanced and intelligent solutions for the global aerospace and defense industry. Collins Aerospace has the capabilities, comprehensive portfolio and expertise to solve customers' toughest challenges and to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving global market.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

2018