System Engineer / Onsite / Cedar Rapids

About the job

Are you a Systems Engineer with a proven track record of bringing safety-critical products through rigorous regulatory certification? We are seeking a talented Systems Engineer to join a premier aerospace and defense technology leader based in Cedar Rapids, IA. The defining priority for this role is demonstrated experience with product qualification and formal certification processes within a safety-regulated market (such as Aerospace, Heavy Machinery, Automotive ISO 26262, Defense, or Medical Devices). This position is structured as a Contract-to-Hire engagement with a clear, targeted path to permanent direct-hire conversion within your first year.

Step into a high-visibility engineering role where you will champion the path to production and certification for next-generation flight and communication technologies. If you thrive on navigating rigorous industry compliance gates, translating system safety standards into verifiable requirements, and leading verification across hardware and software teams, this role offers rapid technical growth and direct mentorship from industry fellows. Best of all, enjoy exceptional work-life balance with a 9/80 work schedule, giving you every other Friday off for 26 three-day weekends a year!

Contract Duration: 6 – 12 Months (Contract-to-Hire)

Required Skills & Experience

• Demonstrated experience taking products through formal qualification and certification processes in a safety-regulated industry
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering
• Hands-on systems engineering experience working across the V-model, including requirements capture, decomposition, allocation, and bi-directional traceability
• Demonstrated experience developing original test plans, verification procedures, and acceptance criteria from requirements
• Hands-on experience with Hardware/Software integration, lab bench testing, and troubleshooting embedded controllers or electronic systems.
• Proficiency in writing test scripts and automating verification routines using Python, Perl, or comparable scripting tools.
• Strong defect-investigation and problem-resolution skills utilizing formal Root Cause Corrective Action (RCCA) methodologies.

Desired Skills & Experience

• Direct exposure to civil or military avionics airworthiness certification standards
• Familiarity with avionics flight deck subsystems
• Experience authoring qualification documentation packages
• Practical experience working in Hardware-in-the-Loop or Systems Integration Lab test bench environments.
• Knowledge of standard communication bus protocols

What You Will Be Doing

Tech Breakdown

• 40% Standards & Certification Artifacts
• 35% System Requirements
• 25% Test Plans

Daily Responsibilities

• 50% Hands On
• 30% Compliance & Certification Documentation
• 20% Team Collaboration