R&D Engineer II - Digital Ag

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

2d

About The Position

The Digital Ag Innovation Lab (www.isudigitalag.org) at Iowa State University (ISU) is seeking an R&D Engineer II to contribute to the design, development, and implementation of software-driven engineering systems that support the next generation of Digital Ag. This role emphasizes applied software development while spanning domains such as robotics, computer vision, sensing, controls, data analysis, and embedded systems. The engineer will work on interdisciplinary projects that integrate software with physical agricultural platforms, enabling data-driven decisions in real world environments. As an R&D Engineer, you will work in a collaborative, learning-focused environment that values innovation, experimentation, and practical impact. You'll engage with innovative projects that push the boundaries of engineering, offering excellent opportunities for professional advancement and making a significant impact on the future of digital agriculture. Digital Ag’s vision to be the premiere thought leader and partner in ag innovation is reinforced by our mission to innovate, educate, and outreach by bridging the gap between ideas and practical application, cultivating a culture of continuous learning, and elevating individuals and organizations to adopt advanced ag tech solutions for a more sustainable and efficient future. Strengthened by a team of service driven and abundant thinkers, passionate about agriculture and striving for excellence, we are committed to combining technological advancement with practical solutions, emphasizing Digital Ag’s role in driving positive impact in the agricultural industry.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of related experience
• 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.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or familiarity in one or more of the following: Embedded or real-time software systems Robotics or autonomous systems Computer vision or image-based sensing Controls systems or automation Data analysis, data pipelines, or applied analytics
• Experience with communication protocols, such as CAN and Ethernet, used on mobile vehicles
• Experience working in multidisciplinary R&D teams and managing technical timelines
• Background in computer science, software engineering, electrical or mechanical engineering, robotics, or related fields who are interested in applying software to real world agricultural systems.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain software for embedded, robotic, and cyber-physical systems using languages such as MATLAB/ Simulink, Python, and C++
• Develop software that integrates sensing, perception, controls, data processing, and actuation
• Work with sensor data (e.g., machine telemetry, imaging, environmental data) for analysis, visualization, and decision making
• Assist with the design of custom electronic control systems, software, and integration of electrical, mechanical, and fluid power components
• Utilize engineering and development tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, CANoe, NI LabView, DEWESoft, and CAN/Ethernet communication protocols
• Participate in the full software development life cycle, including requirements, system design, implementation, testing, and documentation
• Contribute to project planning and execution through Agile or iterative development methods.
• Summarize results and communicate outcomes with internal and external stakeholders
• As an experienced member of the team, the engineer will independently manage deliverables within complex, externally funded projects and contribute technical expertise across multiple areas of system design and development.
• This role will also provide leadership in project planning, execution, and communication with industry and academic partners.
• The successful candidate will have strong problem-solving skills and ability to work across disciplines; demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment; effective written and verbal communication skills; complete projects within a specified timeline; meet project design criteria; communicate effectively and provide technical leadership to design team members; and ensure a safe working environment for project staff.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees