Research & Development Engineer II - Digital Ag

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

32d

About The Position

The Digital Agriculture Innovations Lab (www.isudigitalag.org) at Iowa State University (ISU) is seeking an R&D Engineer II to play a key role in designing, developing, testing, and implementing advanced machinery systems that integrate electronics, software, and mechanical components. As an R&D Engineer, you'll have the chance to work with state-of-the-art technology in agriculture. Our team promotes a learning-based environment where continuous growth and development are highly encouraged. 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. As a more 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 demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively; 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. This is an initial three-year term position, with expectation for renewal based on availability of funding. This posting will be open until filled. Follow us here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-ag-innovation-lab.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and 2 years of related experience

Nice To Haves

• Experience or familiarity with embedded systems development for mobile vehicle systems
• Experience with communication protocols, including CAN and Ethernet, used on mobile vehicles
• Experience working successfully in a technology development team environment and management of team and personal deadlines

Responsibilities

• Develop new embedded software applications using Matlab Simulink, Python, and C++ development tools for advanced engineering systems
• Assist with the design of custom electronic control systems, software, and integration of electrical, mechanical, and fluid power components
• Utilize tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, CANoe, NI LabView, DEWESoft, and CAN communication protocols
• Participate in the software development life cycle, including requirements, programming, and system design
• Conduct tests, evaluate results, and refine engineering approaches under guidance of the project team
• Contribute to project management through Agile methods, supporting planning, execution, and reporting
• Summarize results and communicate outcomes with internal and external stakeholders

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

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