Senior Software Developer
Location: Johnston, IA (Hybrid – Onsite Tuesday through Thursday; must reside within 50 miles)
Start Date: Minimum 2 weeks from date of offer acceptance

POSITION OVERVIEW:

We are seeking a Senior Software Developer with a strong background in industrial automation to join our R&D engineering team in Johnston, IA. This role is ideal for a seasoned professional passionate about building software solutions for custom research and development equipment across greenhouses, laboratories, seed processing, and field environments. You’ll work hands-on with hardware, design and maintain C++ applications, and contribute to advanced imaging and automation projects.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 10+ years of experience in industrial automation.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Agricultural, Biological, Mechanical, Software, or related field) or equivalent work experience.
• Proficiency in both Linux and Windows environments.
• Expertise in C++ development.
• Hands-on experience with PLC programming in Structured Text.
• Experience with machine vision systems and smart sensors.
• Familiarity with industrial protocols such as MQTT, MODBUS, etc.
• Strong team collaboration and communication skills.
• Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience in C# .NET development.
• Knowledge or experience with hyperspectral cameras.
• Familiarity with Rockwell PLCs.
• Understanding of design patterns, N-tiered architecture, and CRUD database operations.
• Proficiency in synchronous programming concepts: resource locking, deadlocks, race conditions.
• Experience with:
• Serial communication (Modbus RTU, CAN).
• Ethernet protocols (EtherCAT, PowerLink, EthernetIP, Modbus TCP).
• IEC 61131 PLC languages.
• Prior work in the agricultural industry.
  Job Type: Contract
  Pay: $40.00 - $45.00 per hour
  Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Ability to Commute:

• Johnston, IA 50131 (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Johnston, IA 50131: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In perso

• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver software solutions for custom R&D equipment.
• Design, develop, and maintain C++ software to control imaging and automation systems.
• Integrate hyperspectral imaging technologies with robotic and industrial systems.
• Program PLCs using Structured Text (preferably Beckhoff).
• Work with machine vision systems, smart sensors, and industrial communication protocols (e.g., MQTT, MODBUS).
• Develop, test, and document software based on seasonal R&D schedules.
• Operate safely around shop equipment and directly interface with hardware during development.
• Maintain clear and professional communication within the team and with stakeholders.