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Entry Level Associate Software Engineer Jobs in Cedar Falls, IA

RFA Engineering

Vehicle Dynamics Engineer

Waterloo, IA · On-site

... software (i.e. Ansys Motion, GT-Suite - GT-3DMBD Vehicle Dynamics) is preferred * Ideal candidate will have 1-3 years of related work experience, but entry level being considered. Visa sponsorship is ...

Actalent

Engineering Technician

Waverly, IA

$21 - $23/hr

Associate degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical field (or ... Exposure to CAD software. * Ability to troubleshoot mechanical or electrical issues. * Experience ...

All JobsAssociate Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Associate Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Associate Software Engineer Jobs in Cedar Falls, IA

Entry Level Associate Software Engineer information

See Cedar Falls, IA salary details

$20.5K

$41.9K

$60.5K

How much do entry level associate software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level associate software engineer in Cedar Falls, IA is $41,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,400.00 and $46,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Associate Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and typically a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic debugging tools, and IDEs, as well as any relevant internships or coding certifications, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, adaptability, and clear communication skills are essential to stand out. These qualifications enable you to effectively contribute code, learn in a team environment, and grow quickly in a fast-paced industry.

What does a typical day look like for an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer?

A typical day for an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer often starts with a team stand-up meeting to discuss progress and upcoming tasks. You'll spend much of your time writing and testing code, fixing bugs, and collaborating with more senior engineers or cross-functional teams on projects. Expect to participate in code reviews, attend learning sessions or trainings, and sometimes work on documentation or tickets assigned from agile sprints. The role usually offers a supportive environment where asking questions and learning from teammates is encouraged. This hands-on, interactive mix of responsibilities helps you quickly build both technical and soft skills essential for career advancement.

What is an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer job?

An Entry Level Associate Software Engineer is a junior role in software development where individuals assist in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers to develop solutions based on project requirements. Responsibilities may include debugging code, writing documentation, and participating in team meetings. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience looking to grow their technical skills. Strong problem-solving abilities and knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ are commonly required.

Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Associate Software Engineer job openings in Cedar Falls, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,900 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Embedded Software Engineer

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Waterloo, IA

$70K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) supports industry-leading clients through the full software development lifecycle to build cutting-edge precision agriculture, machine guidance, vehicle automation and autonomy applications. We are seeking passionate, talented engineers to work on exciting projects using the latest tools and technologies including robotics, computer-vision, machine learning, IoT, cloud computing, and much more. Collaborate with a team of industry experts onsite at our client's world-class engineering center and contribute to developing innovative solutions that drive sustainable agriculture practices.

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.

Embedded Software Engineer

In this role, you will collaborate with software developers, test engineers, and cross-functional stakeholders to design, develop, validate, and optimize embedded software for advanced vehicle systems. You will contribute to the development of steering and braking software for agricultural equipment, delivering high-quality features that enhance machine performance while supporting functional safety objectives.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain embedded software for steering and braking control systems.
  • Collaborate with software engineers, test engineers, and system stakeholders throughout the software development lifecycle.
  • Develop embedded applications using C/C++ and/or MATLAB.
  • Interpret and implement software requirements into reliable, maintainable code.
  • Participate in software integration, validation, debugging, and system tuning activities.
  • Support software verification to ensure functionality, quality, and functional safety objectives are achieved.
  • Troubleshoot software and system issues using appropriate development and diagnostic tools.
  • Participate in planning, prioritization, and continuous improvement activities within an Agile development environment.
  • Contribute to software documentation and technical reviews.
  • Support development and validation efforts on production hardware and prototype systems.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline (or equivalent professional experience).
  • Experience developing embedded software using C/C++ and/or MATLAB.
  • Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Experience working with embedded software development processes.
  • Ability to interpret and implement software requirements.
  • Understanding of software development lifecycle and software delivery processes.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative engineering team.

Desired Attributes

  • Experience with CAN J1939 communication protocol
  • Previous experience in a structured software development process
  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers
  • Experience with CAN sniffers or similar tools to use for troubleshooting communication issues
  • Ability to interpret software requirements and state diagrams
  • Knowledge of common software development tools such as VSCode, Github, Docker, etc.
  • General machine knowledge of industrial equipment or machinery

Pay Range: $70,000-$120,000 – Commensurate with experience

About RFA Engineering

RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry leading customers since 1943. Our primary focus is the 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, branch office in Dubuque, IA, and at numerous customer sites throughout the U.S.
Competitive Benefits

  • Health and Dental Insurance
  • TelaDoc Healthiest You
  • Supplemental Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Short-term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • HSA for Medical Expenses
  • Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
  • Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly