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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA

Varsity Tutors

Robotics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... engineering, computer science, and artificial intelligence applications. * Curriculum Awareness ... hardware-software integration, understanding control systems, and managing team-based design ...

Tuson Manufacturing Company

Be Seen First

CNC Machine Operator, Experienced and Entry level

Story City, IA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Experience with CNC programming (G-code or CAM software) is a plus * Strong understanding of ... computer, etc. * Ability to work safely and be a reliable Tuson employee contributing to our ...

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... entry level position. Responsibilities: * Adheres to and enforces prescribed ethics, safety and ... Uses engineering principles to assist in pit development, plant design, and improving production ...

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

... entry level position. Responsibilities: * Adheres to and enforces prescribed ethics, safety and ... Uses engineering principles to assist in pit development, plant design, and improving production ...

Baker Group

Automation Technician I

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$39K/yr

PURPOSE Provide technical start-up, checkout and programming for Building Automation and Control ... and hardware configurations • Understanding of basic process controls (i.e. PID control loops ...

Martin Marietta

Production Management Associate

Ames, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $18.50/hr

This is an entry level position. Responsibilities: * Adheres to and enforces prescribed ethics ... Uses engineering principles to assist in pit development, plant design, and improving production ...

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Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$107.1K

$142.3K

$174.6K

How much do entry level computer hardware engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer hardware engineer in Ames, IA is $142,326.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,400.00 and $167,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job?

An Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer designs, tests, and develops computer hardware components such as processors, circuit boards, memory devices, and peripherals. They work under the guidance of senior engineers to improve system performance and troubleshoot hardware issues. Their responsibilities may also include collaborating with software engineers to ensure compatibility between hardware and software. Typically, they are employed by technology companies, hardware manufacturers, or research institutions. This role requires a background in electrical or computer engineering and proficiency in hardware design tools.

What are typical projects or tasks for entry-level computer hardware engineers?

Entry-level computer hardware engineers are often involved in tasks such as assisting in the design and testing of circuit boards, performing system integration, and supporting senior engineers with troubleshooting and validation. They may also be responsible for documenting test results, updating schematics, and conducting research on new components or technologies. Team members frequently work together to prototype hardware solutions, address technical challenges, and ensure products meet performance and safety standards. This collaborative environment provides valuable on-the-job learning and exposure to the full hardware development lifecycle.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer, you need a solid understanding of digital and analog circuits, computer architecture, and a bachelor's degree in electrical or computer engineering. Familiarity with hardware design tools like Verilog/VHDL, PCB layout software, and proficiency in using oscilloscopes or logic analyzers are often required, along with relevant internships or lab experience. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help individuals excel in this role. These competencies ensure you can contribute to the design, testing, and troubleshooting of hardware systems while collaborating smoothly with multidisciplinary teams.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? For Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:
Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Hardware Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $142,326 per year, or $68.4 per hour.

Embedded Software Developer C++

Rogers Freels & Associates Inc

Johnston, IA

$75K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 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

RFA Engineering is seeking a C++ Embedded Software Developer to support the development of precision agriculture technology for off-highway equipment. This role involves designing, coding, and testing embedded software using modern C++ for control systems, sensor integration, and real-time applications. The ideal candidate will have experience with embedded systems, communication protocols, and work closely with cross-functional teams to bring advanced ag-tech solutions to market.

Responsibilities

  • Design, develop, and test embedded software components using C++ for agricultural control systems and sensor interfaces.

  • Work closely with systems engineering to define software requirements and architecture.

  • Integrate software on real-time operating systems (RTOS) and bare-metal environments for 32-bit microcontrollers and embedded Linux platforms.

  • Implement CAN-based communication protocols (e.g., J1939, ISO 11783) for tractor and implement control.

  • Conduct unit testing, system integration, and validation on bench and field equipment.

  • Participate in code reviews, documentation, and software lifecycle planning in compliance with internal quality standards.

  • Troubleshoot hardware/software integration issues in lab and field environments.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical engineers, controls engineers, test engineers, and product managers.

Requirements

  • B.S. or M.S. in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Software Engineering, or related field.

  • 2+ years of experience developing embedded software using modern C++.

  • Proficiency in embedded software development for microcontroller- or processor-based systems.

  • Experience with CAN, SPI, I2C, and UART communication protocols.

  • Familiarity with real-time operating systems (e.g., FreeRTOS, VxWorks) or embedded Linux.

  • Experience with version control tools such as Git.

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in agriculture, off-highway equipment, or automotive embedded systems.

  • Familiarity with ISOBUS or J1939 communication protocol

  • Experience working in Agile development environments.

  • Familiarity with hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) testing frameworks.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position

    Pay Range: $75,000-$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

    #ZR