ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Computer Programming Jobs in Ames, IA

Accu-Mold Corp

Associate Project Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$63.60K - $84K/yr

Engineering Manager FLSA: Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY: Provides technical support for assigned project ... Computer Skills . Ability to operate personal computer. Knowledge of Windows based programs such as ...

Accumold

Associate Project Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$62.80K - $82.90K/yr

Engineering Manager FLSA: Non-Exempt JOB SUMMARY: Provides technical support for assigned project ... Computer Skills. Ability to operate personal computer. Knowledge of Windows based programs such as ...

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

Document component- and system-level mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic designs using 3D CAD ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

Document component- and system-level mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic designs using 3D CAD ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

Sabanto

Purchasing Engineer

Ames, IA

Document component- and system-level mechanical, hydraulic, and electronic designs using 3D CAD ... This is an entry level position. It is based on-site and does not offer a remote work option.

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsEntry Level Computer Programming JobsEntry Level Computer Programming Jobs in Ames, IA

Entry Level Computer Programming information

See Ames, IA salary details

$32.3K

$63.6K

$93.4K

How much do entry level computer programming jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer programming in Ames, IA is $63,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $78,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Entry Level Computer Programming Jobs?

Entry-level computer programming jobs focus on building the coding skills needed to create complex, robust software. In this role, you help with the development of code, experience the daily routine of a programmer, and help design and test software for your company. Entry-level computer programmers often build and install databases, conduct performance audits, convert logical sequences into programming languages, perform trial runs, modify code, and adjust the software to account for different computing environments. You may also perform data mining and data warehousing to create reports and briefings for other employees. Learning is a key element of this job, and employers often use a structured work process to help develop your skills before promoting you to a regular programmer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Computer Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++, along with a relevant degree or coursework in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic debugging tools, and code editors is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that help programmers excel. These abilities are crucial for writing efficient, reliable code and collaborating on software development projects in a professional environment.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level computer programmer?

As an entry-level computer programmer, you will typically be assigned tasks such as writing and testing code, fixing bugs, and assisting in the development of new features under the guidance of more experienced developers. You might also help maintain existing software, update documentation, and participate in code reviews. Working closely with other team members, such as software engineers, QA testers, and product managers, is common, which helps you build both technical and collaborative skills early in your career.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Programming vs Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Computer ProgrammingSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or coding bootcamp certificationBachelor's degree in CS or related field often preferred
Work EnvironmentInternships, junior roles, team projectsFull-time positions in tech companies, startups, or agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles across various industriesDeveloping, testing, and maintaining software applications
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Computer Programming typically involves basic coding tasks and learning foundational skills, often requiring an associate's degree or bootcamp certification. Software Developers usually have more experience, often hold a bachelor's degree, and are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. While both roles involve coding, Software Developers have broader responsibilities and work in more advanced project environments.

More about Entry Level Computer Programming jobs
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Programming jobs in Ames, IA? For Entry Level Computer Programming jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Programming jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Programming jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Programming jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Entry Level Computer Programming job openings:
Entry Level Computer Programming jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Programming job openings in Ames, IA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,557 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
Entry Level Software Engineer

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

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.
Entry Level Software Engineer
This position is associated with developing and maintaining system automation tests for the next generation of embedded controllers. Candidates should be able to collaborate with development teams to deliver a full suite of automated tests to ensure consistent high code quality and features.
Responsibilities
  • Write and maintain system-level automated tests written in Python.
  • Contribute to test strategy and architecture as required
  • Debug intermittent test failures to determine root cause, and assign software defects as needed.
  • Working to improve test yield of existing test cases. This may mean collaborating with software developers and triaging test failures.
  • Coordinate the technical execution of test scripting with additional resources.
  • Attend regular meetings and stand-ups in order to respond to changing needs.
  • Attend meetings in-person with development teams to identify automation testing needs.
  • Attend meetings with Product Test Leads to define the test strategy, and steps to execute for a given test case.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering. Other degrees are considered if relevant experience exists.
  • Professional proficiency in Python with demonstrated experience in automation, testing, or software development.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Desired Attributes
  • General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery
  • Practical working knowledge and application of UDP, TCP/IP, CAN, or other networking communication protocols.
  • Basic experience with microcontrollers such as Arduino, RaspberryPi, or more complex embedded systems.
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • Strong mathematical and analytical problem-solving skills
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Experience with Linux Ubuntu
  • Experience with Bash scripting.
  • Experience with C++ or Qt

VISA Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 - 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.

Apply