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Entry Level Applications Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Substation Design Engineer develops and reviews utility substation drawings, including General ... Proven experience in Microsoft Software Applications (Word, Excel, Power Point) * Demonstrates ...

Field Test Technician - Onsite

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$18.25 - $25/hr

Electrical Engineering Technology, Diesel Power Technology, Manufacturing Engineering Technology ... Will consider more entry level candidates recently coming from an Ag. Tech school or similar.

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Applications Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$47.4K

$104K

$142.8K

How much do entry level applications engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level applications engineer in Iowa is $103,975.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,900.00 and $126,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level applications engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Applications Engineer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, strong analytical skills, and foundational knowledge in programming or technical problem-solving. Familiarity with CAD software, programming languages (such as Python or C++), and simulation tools is often expected, along with exposure to industry-specific platforms. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are essential soft skills that help you collaborate with clients and cross-functional teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently delivering technical solutions that meet client needs and contribute to successful project outcomes.

What does collaboration typically look like for an entry level applications engineer within a project team?

As an Entry Level Applications Engineer, collaboration is central to your daily responsibilities. You’ll work closely with senior engineers, product managers, and sometimes directly with customers to understand requirements and develop solutions. Regular team meetings, code reviews, and joint troubleshooting sessions are standard, providing valuable learning opportunities and exposure to different technical perspectives. This collaborative environment helps you build both technical and communication skills, while also giving you insight into how products evolve from concept to deployment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Applications Engineer vs Junior Mechanical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Applications EngineerJunior Mechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, technical skills, some certificationsBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering, internship experience often preferred
Work EnvironmentCustomer-facing, technical support, product demonstrationsDesign, analysis, testing in office or lab settings
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, industrial equipmentManufacturing firms, engineering consultancies, R&D

The Entry Level Applications Engineer typically focuses on technical support, product demonstrations, and customer interaction, requiring strong communication skills and technical knowledge. In contrast, a Junior Mechanical Engineer often works on design, analysis, and testing within engineering teams. While both roles require a bachelor's degree, the applications engineer role emphasizes customer-facing skills and product knowledge, whereas the mechanical engineer role centers on technical design and development.

What does an entry level applications engineer do?

An Entry Level Applications Engineer assists in designing, developing, and supporting software or hardware applications for customers. They work closely with sales and engineering teams to understand client requirements and help implement technical solutions. Their responsibilities often include troubleshooting, providing technical support, and ensuring that applications meet customer needs. This role is a great starting point for gaining hands-on experience in both engineering and customer-facing environments.

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

The most popular types of Applications Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Applications Engineer jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Applications Engineer job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 76% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,975 per year, or $50 per hour.

Software Engineer - Displays

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
This is a full-time position with a full benefit package listed below that includes opportunities for professional growth, direct hire by our customers, and additional opportunities within our own organization.
Application Developer - Display Systems
This position is associated with the design and development of advanced system displays and the applications each display would contain. Various roles are available that require use of C++, Qt/QML, and virtual machines that run Linux based operating systems. The developer will be creating robust operating system driven software for advanced displays in conjunction with the display systems team and product testing team.
** Note: This is not an embedded software engineering opportunity.
Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain software applications and frameworks for Linux-based operating systems that power advanced machine display systems.
  • Implement features, graphical interfaces, and system controls using C++, and Qt/QML.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, systems, and test engineers to define software requirements and system behavior.
  • Work within an Agile development environment to plan, implement, test, and deliver iterative software improvements.
  • Perform peer code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and provide solutions to both software and hardware interface challenges.
  • Develop and execute unit and system-level tests to validate software functionality and performance.
  • Utilize modern development tools such as VS Code, Git, and Linux-based build environments to manage and deliver quality software releases.
  • Contribute to continuous improvement of software processes, tools, and practices.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Proficiency in Object Oriented Programming. (C++, Java, or C# Preferred)
  • Experience developing in Linux environments using VS Code or similar IDEs.
  • Practical experience with Git or equivalent version control systems.
  • Understanding of UI/UX development principles and application design.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills for both software and system-level issues.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills, including cross-functional and international collaboration.
  • Ability to interpret requirements and translate them into efficient, maintainable software solutions

Desired Skills and Attributes
  • Experience with 2D/3D graphics rendering and visualization.
  • Knowledge of OpenGL or OpenCV for display rendering or image processing.
  • Working knowledge of JavaScript or Python for scripting or automation.
  • Experience developing graphical user interfaces using Qt/QML.
  • Exposure to Full Stack Development concepts and frameworks.
  • Familiarity with CAN protocol or other machine communication interfaces.
  • Understanding of MQTT or similar message-based communication systems.
  • Passion for creating innovative software solutions that enhance operator experience in rugged, real-world environments.
  • Collaborative mindset with a proactive approach to learning new technologies and tools.

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this role.
Salary Range: $65,000-$95,000/year commensurate with experience
Why work for RFA?
About RFA Engineering
RFA Engineering has provided machine design and engineering services to industry leading customers dating back to 1943. Our primary focus is project based product development of off highway equipment including agricultural, construction, mining, recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation, optimization, and testing of components, systems and complete machines. Our engineering staff is located at our Engineering Center in Minneapolis, MN, Satellite office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
We Offer Competitive Benefits:
  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plans for Medical Expenses and Dependent Care
  • Extra Time Bonuses
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Holiday Pay
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly
#ZR
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.