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Associate Programmer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Job Purpose and Impact As an Engineer I, you'll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate together-working continuously alongside operators ...

Job Purpose and Impact As an Engineer I, you'll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate together-working continuously alongside operators ...

Job Purpose and Impact As an Engineer I, youll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate togetherworking continuously alongside operators ...

CNC Programmer

Oskaloosa, IA · On-site

$80K - $85K/yr

This role is ideal for an experienced CNC Programmer who enjoys collaborating with engineering ... Associate's degree or certification in CNC machining, precision machining, or manufacturing ...

PLC Programmer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

We are seeking highly qualified to join our team as a Programmer.Candidate primary responsibilities ... Minimum requirements for this position are Technical Associates or similar degree; Experience with ...

Hawarden PLC Programmer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

We are seeking highly qualified to join our team as a Programmer. Candidate primary ... Minimum requirements for this position are Technical Associates or similar degree; Experience with ...

Hawarden PLC Programmer

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$66K - $89K/yr

We are seeking highly qualified to join our team as a Programmer. Candidate primary ... Minimum requirements for this position are Technical Associates or similar degree; Experience with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Programmer information

See Iowa salary details

$15

$21

$34

How much do associate programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate programmer in Iowa is $21.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.92 and $29.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate programmer do?

An Associate Programmer is an entry-level software developer who assists in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior programmers or project managers, contributing to smaller modules or specific tasks within a larger project. Associate Programmers are responsible for writing clean code, fixing bugs, and learning industry best practices. This role often serves as a foundation for gaining experience and advancing to more senior programming positions.

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

To thrive as an Associate Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, coding languages such as Java, Python, or C#, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic software development methodologies is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set you apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable code, collaborating efficiently, and adapting to evolving project requirements.

What are some common challenges an associate programmer might face when working on a team project?

As an Associate Programmer, one common challenge is adapting to different coding styles and standards used by various team members. Effective communication is essential to understand project requirements and ensure smooth collaboration with designers, senior developers, and testers. Additionally, balancing multiple tasks or learning new technologies quickly can be demanding, but these experiences provide valuable opportunities for skill development and growth within the team.

What is the difference between Associate Programmer vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectAssociate ProgrammerJunior Software Developer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate's degree or relevant certificationsSimilar, often an entry-level degree or certification
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects in tech companiesEntry-level, often in software development teams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT and software firms for entry rolesWidely used in tech industry for early-career roles
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Associate Programmer and a Junior Software Developer lies in job titles used by employers. Both roles are entry-level, require similar educational backgrounds, and work in similar environments within the tech industry. The title 'Associate Programmer' is often used in corporate or structured environments, while 'Junior Software Developer' is more common in startups and tech firms. Both roles serve as stepping stones for a career in software development.

What can I do with an associate programmer's in computer programming?

An associate programmer typically performs tasks such as writing, testing, and maintaining code, often using programming languages like Java, Python, or C++. This role provides a foundation for developing skills in software development, debugging, and working with development tools, which can lead to more advanced programming positions or specialized roles in software engineering. Certifications in programming or related technologies can enhance career growth opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Associate Programmer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,710 per year, or $22 per hour.

Associate Engineer

Sioux City, IA


Cargill
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 225 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 49 rated food wholesalers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Cargill is a family company committed to providing food and agricultural solutions to nourish the world in a safe, responsible, and sustainable way. We sit at the heart of the supply chain, partnering with producers and customers to source, make and deliver products that are vital for living. By providing customers with life's essentials, we enable businesses to grow, communities to prosper, and consumers to live well.

This position is in our Ag & Trading enterprise, where we connect producers and users of grains and oilseeds around the globe through origination, trading, processing, and distribution. We also offer a range of farmer services and risk management solutions. 

Job Purpose and Impact

As an Engineer I, you'll play an active, day-to-day role in improving how all aspects of a soybean processing plant operate together-working continuously alongside operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors to optimize how soybeans are crushed into meal and oil. This role is rooted in ongoing, hands-on collaboration, where you'll help identify opportunities, troubleshoot real-world challenges, and implement practical improvements that make the operation safer, smoother, and more efficient.

You'll build a strong foundation by applying engineering standards in a live production environment, learning directly from front-line teams and experienced engineers. Your work will include supporting process improvements, reliability efforts, and small-to-medium capital projects-helping plan, design, and evaluate timelines and costs-while contributing to the upkeep and performance of the systems and equipment that keep the plant running every day.

Key Accountabilities
  • Follow prescribed guidelines or policies to analyze and resolve problems.
  • Continue to build knowledge of the organization, processes and customers.
  • Contribute to designing and improving manufacturing processes, instruments and equipment, testing manufactured products to maintain quality.
  • Handle basic issues and problems under direct supervision, while escalating more complex issues to appropriate staff.
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent experience

Prefered Qualifications 

  • Degree in Chemical, Mechanical or Agricultural Engineering
  • Previous industrial co-op or internship experience in Mechanical and Chemical Engineering
  • Experience of continuous processes
  • Manufacturing industry work experience
Position Information
  • Location: Sioux City, Iowa
  • Relocation assistance may be available for this role
  • Work Schedule: Day shift

Equal Opportunity Employer, including Disability/Vet.


Cargill logo

About Cargill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cargill was founded in 1865 as a single grain warehouse in Iowa, U.S. Since then, we’ve grown to become a global partner connecting people around the planet. But one thing has remained constant over the years: our purpose of nourishing the world in a safe, responsible and sustainable way. Cargill is committed to conducting business with integrity, operating responsibly, enriching communities and nourishing the world. In the fiscal year 2021, Cargill provided $110.5 million in total charitable contributions in 56 countries to support our communities. Cargill businesses and employee-led groups partner with local civic, nonprofit and non-governmental organizations on programs and projects that improve food security and nutrition; support human rights, equity and inclusion; strengthen farmer livelihoods; and advance our commitments in the areas of land use, water and climate.

Industry

Food and drink manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US


What Cargill employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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