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Entry Level Electrical Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA

Project Engineer I: * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers information, helps with coordination and preparation, assists with analyzing and compiling data. * May help ...

... with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects ... This is an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on training and the opportunity to learn ...

New

... with Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services for solar and BESS projects ... This is an entry-level position designed to provide hands-on training and the opportunity to learn ...

Entry Level Electrical Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$39.6K

$84.5K

$139.4K

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

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level electrical engineer in Ames, IA is $84,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,600.00 and $101,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level electrical engineer do?

An entry-level engineer performs a variety of tasks as part of their job. In this career, your main duties are to design, build, and test electronics, electrical systems, and electrical equipment, such as electric motors or navigation systems. Some electrical engineers design new industrial products, while others work on improving existing systems of products. You are responsible for creating all the standards and specifications, such as manufacturing blueprints, which the production staff reads and carries out. You also ensure that all systems or products meet safety and design standards.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry level electrical engineer expect during their first year on the job?

As an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, you'll often assist with designing electrical systems, drafting technical documents, and conducting tests under the supervision of senior engineers. You'll likely work on project teams, contributing to tasks such as circuit design, schematic reviews, and troubleshooting. Early responsibilities typically include supporting senior staff, learning company standards, and participating in client meetings or site visits. This hands-on experience helps new engineers develop practical skills and gain exposure to various aspects of electrical engineering projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Electrical Engineer vs Electrical Technician?

AspectEntry Level Electrical EngineerElectrical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in electrical engineeringAssociate degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of electrical systemsInstallation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical equipment
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, power generationConstruction, maintenance, and repair services

While both roles involve electrical systems, Entry Level Electrical Engineers focus on designing and analyzing electrical projects, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Electrical Technicians typically handle installation and maintenance tasks with technical certifications. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path based on their skills and credentials.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Electrical Engineer, you need a solid grasp of electrical engineering fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), circuit simulation programs, and industry standards, as well as an EIT (Engineer-in-Training) certification, is often expected. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you contribute effectively to projects and collaborate with diverse teams. These abilities are crucial for delivering accurate engineering solutions, meeting project requirements, and supporting professional growth within the field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Electrical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Electrical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Electrical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Entry Level Electrical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Entry Level Electrical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Electrical Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,497 per year, or $40.6 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Johnston, IA

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 hours 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.

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