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Computer Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Senior Traffic Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Senior Traffic Engineer (Senior PE) McClure is currently searching for a skilled Senior Traffic ... General computer knowledge (Excel, Word, PDF). McClure provides equal employment opportunities to ...

New

PURPOSE The Systems Engineer-Automation will work with the engineering and leadership teams to ... Understand numerous computer operating systems and drafting applications * Advanced knowledge of ...

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

PURPOSE The Senior Electrical Engineer serves as a subject matter expert in electrical systems ... Computer * Calculator * Tape measure * PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, safety boots, Hi-Vis vest)

Sr. Automation Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

Senior Automation Engineer Department: Automation FLSA Designation: Non-Exempt PURPOSE The Senior ... Computer systems: Windows, Linux, Command Line Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In ...

Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * 5+ years of product development experience focused on software products. * 5+ years of ...

PURPOSE The Project Engineer provides technical support and administrative help to Project Managers ... Computer * Calculator * Tape measure * PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, safety boots, Hi-Vis vest)

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, or a relevant field preferred * Familiarity with Spring Boot and Unix/Linux environments * Previous experience with mobile build ...

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Computer Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$47.4K

$118.9K

$134.5K

How much do computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer engineer in Ames, IA is $118,865.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,100.00 and $128,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $300,000 or more annually, often with extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes in leadership roles or high-demand industries. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise, with some professionals also earning through stock options or bonuses.

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

To thrive as a Computer Engineer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics, and hardware/software design, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with programming languages (such as C/C++ or Python), circuit design tools, and industry certifications like CompTIA or Cisco are highly valuable. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that set top performers apart. These abilities ensure that computer engineers can design, implement, and optimize systems that meet technical requirements and business goals.

Are computer engineers highly paid?

Computer engineers typically earn above-average salaries compared to many other professions, especially with experience, specialized skills, and certifications in areas like hardware design, software development, or network systems. Salary levels can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, but overall, the profession is considered well-compensated.

What is the difference between Computer Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectComputer EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering or related field; certifications like Cisco, CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering; certifications like Microsoft, AWS
Work EnvironmentDesigning hardware, embedded systems, and software integration in labs or officesWriting, testing, and maintaining software applications in offices or remote setups
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunications, embedded systemsIT firms, software companies, startups, enterprise software development

Computer Engineers focus on both hardware and software systems, often working on embedded systems and hardware integration. Software Developers primarily create and maintain software applications. While their roles overlap in programming, Computer Engineers have a broader scope including hardware design, whereas Software Developers specialize in software solutions.

What jobs does a Computer Engineer do?

A Computer Engineer designs, develops, and tests computer hardware and software systems. They work on creating integrated circuits, embedded systems, and computer networks, often using programming languages and engineering principles. Their work may involve troubleshooting, system optimization, and collaborating with software developers and other engineers.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior computer engineers, especially those in specialized fields like software architecture, machine learning, or cybersecurity, can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of high base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Such compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and work at large tech companies or startups with significant funding.

What Is a Computer Engineer?

A computer engineer designs, researches, tests, and develops computer equipment and software such as circuit boards, chips, routers, and application programs. Computer engineers analyze complex equipment and systems to understand the best way to improve it. They create new types of information technology devices and use logic and reasoning to hone in on goals, test assumptions, and identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. Engineers often work in teams and have to be able to communicate with other types of engineers, including non-technical team members. Computer engineers make sure that components fit together properly and function according to the latest software developments.

What are computer engineers?

Computer engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain computer hardware and software systems. They work at the intersection of electrical engineering and computer science, focusing on how computer systems function and how they can be improved. Their roles can involve creating microprocessors, designing circuit boards, developing embedded systems, and optimizing software for hardware performance. Computer engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology across industries, from consumer electronics to aerospace and healthcare.

What are common challenges computer engineers face when working on cross-functional teams?

Computer engineers often collaborate with software developers, hardware designers, and project managers, which can present challenges in aligning technical requirements and communication styles. Ensuring that everyone has a clear understanding of system limitations and integration points is crucial, as miscommunication can lead to project delays or rework. Staying adaptable and proactively clarifying expectations helps computer engineers navigate these collaborative environments successfully.
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? For Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Computer Engineer jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Computer Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Computer Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $118,865 per year, or $57.1 per hour.
Senior Traffic Engineer

Senior Traffic Engineer

McClure Engineering Co

Ankeny, IA • On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

Description:

Senior Traffic Engineer (Senior PE)


McClure is currently searching for a skilled Senior Traffic Engineer to help live our mission of Making Lives Better through our growing Transportation team. The Senior Traffic Engineer will be the primary point on a variety of highly visible and critical projects for the organization. A successful Senior Traffic Engineer will demonstrate past success in team technical/design leadership and the ability to mentor/develop less experienced team members.


The Senior Traffic Engineer will be an organized project partner who will lead team members in the development and production of deliverables which meet McClure’s high-quality standards. The Senior Traffic Engineer will also help develop the technical/design abilities of team members. This role will be seen as a technical thought leader amongst their peers internally and externally. The Senior Traffic Engineer will pursue innovation, challenge existing processes, and be an encouraging resource.


General Responsibilities:

60% Team Support

Support the Vice President or Team Leader with tasks such as:

  • Participation in monthly meetings with leadership to review team progress, discuss concerns, and identify successes.
  • Frequent communication to leadership as necessary based on project/team needs.

Support Team Leaders and Project Managers with tasks such as:

  • Frequent communication and coordination with Project Managers and Engineers.
  • Participating in project specific design review and milestone meetings.
  • Lead the project delivery team by delegating technical/design tasks and coaching those involved.
  • Lead QA/QC processes for projects and advise on necessary team-wide changes.
  • Conduct quality assurance and quality control on reports, plans and specifications, ensuring compliance with industry standards, regulations, and guidelines.
  • Work with Project Managers to identify project milestones and dependencies.
  • Independently lead design team schedules, budgets and staffing while coordinating/communicating with the Project Manager.
  • Implement team specific project delivery processes such as work breakdown structures.
  • Coordinate with outside disciplines.
  • Work with Project Managers to document, review and implement lessons learned.
  • Assess skills of technical team members, assist to address weaknesses.
  • Provide technical guidance, mentorship, and experience through knowledge transfer to members of the Team.

10% Industry Innovation and Thought Leadership

  • Research and review feasibility of industry developments and advancements.
  • Help lead the industry by speaking publicly on behalf of McClure about projects, initiatives or innovations.
  • Organize internal and external training opportunities for the team.
  • Collaborate with other engineers and professionals on multi-disciplinary projects.

20% Client Support

  • Participate in client meetings such as project kick off, design review, construction progress or project specific technical meetings as required.
  • Proactively communicate complex issues and solutions.
  • Build a relationship of trust with all clients.

10% Other Duties as Assigned


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

To perform the role successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. These requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of this position.

  • Ability to maintain a positive attitude and professional demeanor with all team members.
  • Strong understanding of transportation engineering, construction techniques, and industry standards/best practices.
  • Ability to manage a fair workload by managing priorities.
  • Strong knowledge of professional liability, quality procedures, and other Engineering/Technical skills.
  • Detail-oriented with excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from various groups of people.
  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders.

Preferred Education and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering or related field.
  • 5+ years of experience in engineering.
  • Proven track record of mentoring and developing junior team members.
  • Professional Engineering (PE) license is required.
  • Professional Traffic Operations Engineer (PTOE) certification is a plus.
  • General computer knowledge (Excel, Word, PDF).

McClure provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Requirements: