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Backend Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

My3Tech Inc

.Net Developer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$47 - $62.25/hr

... Software Engineering architectural and UI/UX standards. Deploy and support applications across multiple development platforms. Integrate front-end GUIs with back-end databases, APIs, and other ...

Baker Group

DevOps Engineer - IT

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$50 - $68.50/hr

PURPOSE The DevOps Engineer - IT is responsible for supporting and maintaining DevOps infrastructure and backend shared services that enable efficient software development and deployment across Baker ...

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All JobsBackend Software Engineer JobsBackend Software Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Backend Software Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$56.8K

$138.7K

$186.9K

How much do backend software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for backend software engineer in Iowa is $138,693.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $161,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are backend engineers still in demand?

Backend software engineers are currently in high demand due to the ongoing need for server-side development, cloud computing, and scalable systems. Skills in programming languages like Java, Python, and frameworks such as Node.js are highly valued, and demand is expected to grow as digital infrastructure expands across industries.

What does a Backend Software Engineer do?

A Backend Software Engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power applications and websites. They ensure that data flows efficiently between the server, application, and the user interface, often working with languages like Java, Python, or Node.js. Their work is crucial for enabling features, security, and performance on the backend, even though users typically interact with the frontend. Backend engineers also collaborate with frontend developers and other team members to create seamless user experiences.

What are some typical challenges a Backend Software Engineer faces when integrating new services into an existing system?

Backend Software Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring compatibility between new services and legacy systems, maintaining data integrity during migrations, and managing increased system complexity. Effective integration also requires thorough testing to prevent disruptions to existing functionalities and close collaboration with frontend engineers, DevOps, and QA teams. Proactively communicating across teams and adhering to clear documentation standards can help mitigate integration risks and ensure a smoother deployment process.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior backend software engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in areas like distributed systems or cloud computing, and often working at large tech companies or in high-demand industries can earn $300,000 or more annually. Compensation may include base salary, bonuses, and stock options, especially in competitive markets or executive-level roles.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior software engineers, especially those in high-demand fields like backend development, cloud engineering, or machine learning, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, specialized skills, and working at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What is the difference between Backend Software Engineer vs Frontend Software Engineer?

AspectBackend Software EngineerFrontend Software Engineer
Primary FocusServer-side development, databases, APIsClient-side development, UI/UX, visual elements
Required SkillsProgramming languages like Java, Python, SQL; server managementHTML, CSS, JavaScript, frameworks like React or Angular
Work EnvironmentBackend teams, server infrastructure, cloud servicesDesign teams, user interface, web browsers
Common UsageBuilding and maintaining server logic and databasesCreating interactive and visually appealing web pages

While both roles involve web development, Backend Software Engineers focus on server-side logic and data management, whereas Frontend Software Engineers specialize in creating the visual and interactive aspects of websites. Both roles are essential in full-stack development and often collaborate closely.

Is back-end coding hard?

Backend software engineering involves writing server-side code that manages data, application logic, and integration with databases, which can be complex depending on the project. It requires knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, as well as understanding of APIs, security, and system architecture. The difficulty varies based on experience, project scope, and the complexity of the systems involved.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Backend Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Backend Software Engineer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, a solid understanding of data structures, algorithms, and experience with database management, usually supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with tools such as Git, RESTful APIs, cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), and frameworks like Spring or Django is highly valued, and relevant certifications can be advantageous. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are essential to build, maintain, and optimize robust, scalable server-side applications that meet user and business needs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Backend Software Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
Backend Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Backend Software Engineer job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,693 per year, or $66.7 per hour.

Full Stack / Backend Developer

leeenterprises

Davenport, IA • Remote

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Full Stack / Backend Developer (PHP)

Location: Remote
Employment Type: Full-time

About the Role

We are seeking a Full Stack / Backend Developer with strong experience in PHP and large-scale MySQL environments to join our engineering team. This role focuses on building and maintaining backend services and APIs that power our platform, with some involvement in front-end integrations using modern JavaScript frameworks.

You will work on systems that handle high volumes of data and traffic, requiring careful attention to performance, scalability, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and maintain backend services using PHP
  • Build and maintain APIs and integrations with internal and third-party systems
  • Design and optimize queries for large-scale MySQL databases
  • Analyze and improve database performance, indexing, and query efficiency
  • Collaborating with front-end developers working in React
  • Troubleshoot production issues and implement long-term solutions
  • Write clean, maintainable, and well-documented code
  • Participate in code reviews and contribute to development best practices
  • Support deployment processes and ongoing system maintenance

Required Qualifications

  • 3+ years of professional experience with PHP (no frameworks required)
  • Strong experience working with large-scale MySQL databases
  • Deep understanding of query optimization, indexing strategies, and performance tuning
  • Experience handling high-volume data and production-critical systems
  • Strong understanding of backend architecture and API design
  • Experience building and consuming RESTful APIs
  • Familiarity with front-end integration using React
  • Experience with version control systems (Git)
  • Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
  • Ability to communicate effectively and work collaboratively

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working with large, legacy PHP codebases
  • Familiarity with replication, sharding, or other scaling strategies in MySQL
  • Experience with asynchronous processing, queues, or background jobs
  • Familiarity with AI coding tools such as Copilot in VS code or Claude Code
  • Understanding of web security best practices
  • Experience working in high-traffic environments
  • Exposure to cloud infrastructure (AWS or similar)

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