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Entry Level Automation Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Automation Engineer information

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$34.8K

$100.6K

$153.1K

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level automation engineer in Iowa is $100,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,200.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Automation Engineer job?

An Entry Level Automation Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing automation systems to improve efficiency in manufacturing, software development, or other technical processes. They typically work with tools like PLCs, scripting languages, or robotic systems to automate repetitive tasks. Their role involves collaborating with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, optimize workflows, and ensure systems operate smoothly. This position requires basic programming knowledge, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of automation principles. It serves as a foundation for advancing into more specialized engineering roles in automation and control systems.

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

To excel as an Entry Level Automation Engineer, you should have a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python or Java), basic engineering principles, and a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with industrial automation tools like PLCs, SCADA systems, and experience with automation testing software, as well as certifications like Certified Automation Professional (CAP), are commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies ensure you can efficiently create, test, and integrate automated solutions in both collaborative and technical environments.

What are some typical daily responsibilities of an Entry Level Automation Engineer?

As an Entry Level Automation Engineer, your daily tasks may include writing and testing code for automation scripts, helping to design or modify automated systems, troubleshooting issues that arise in automation workflows, and assisting with equipment setup or calibration. You’ll often collaborate with senior engineers and cross-functional teams, learning about various industry processes and participating in project meetings. Documentation of your work and analysis of system performance are also common aspects of the job. These responsibilities provide a solid foundation in automation engineering and offer valuable hands-on experience for career growth.
More about Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Entry Level Automation Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Automation Engineer jobs near you
Software Test Automation Engineer

Software Test Automation Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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 a growth-oriented 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.
Software Test Automation Engineer
The Software Test Automation Engineer plays a key role in validating the electrical and software systems that control vehicle functionality and operation. This position focuses on developing and executing automated and manual test strategies, maintaining and improving test scripts, and ensuring software quality through rigorous regression, hardware, and machine-level testing. The role collaborates closely with cross-functional engineering teams to support timely product releases and may provide field support for complex issue resolution.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and execute detailed test plans for direct application testing, remote testing, and full/partial machine evaluations.
  • Create and manage hardware-focused test plans, including operating systems, electronic diagnostic tools, and specialized harnesses.
  • Build and deliver comprehensive regression test plans to ensure software stability across releases.
  • Perform software validation through live machine testing, simulation environments, and remote assessment tools.
  • Maintain, refine, and expand existing automated test scripts to increase test coverage and efficiency.
  • Participate in tactical project meetings, providing clear updates on test progress, issues, and risk areas.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to support timely content releases aligned with key product delivery milestones.
  • Travel as needed to field locations to diagnose complex issues and support product, marketing, and quality teams during critical testing activities.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in Engineering or Computer Science.
  • Ability to interpret software requirements, state diagrams, and test plan documentation.
  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers.
  • Ability to operate machinery or heavy equipment during testing.
  • Must have a valid driver's license.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with QML/QT frameworks within Squish test environments.
  • Extensive Linux/UNIX experience, including debugging and development.
  • Proficiency in Python, especially for backend automation with Squish and ECU-TEST.
  • Prior software development and testing experience
  • General machine knowledge of off-road equipment or machinery
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude.
  • A strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position
Pay Range: $65,000-$110,000 - 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
#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.

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