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Entry Level Embedded Software Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Embedded Software information

See Ames, IA salary details

$68.5K

$150K

$170.2K

How much do entry level embedded software jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level embedded software in Ames, IA is $150,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,600.00 and $169,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Software Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Embedded Software Engineer, you need a solid background in C/C++ programming, basic knowledge of embedded systems, and a relevant degree such as electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field. Familiarity with microcontrollers, real-time operating systems (RTOS), debugging tools, and version control systems like Git is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help you excel in this role. These skills are essential to developing reliable software, collaborating with hardware teams, and meeting project requirements in embedded system environments.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry-level embedded software engineers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level embedded software engineers often encounter challenges such as debugging hardware-software interactions, understanding real-time constraints, and adapting to unfamiliar development environments. New engineers can overcome these hurdles by actively seeking mentorship from senior team members, practicing with debugging tools, and studying relevant hardware documentation. Regular collaboration with hardware engineers and participation in code reviews can also help build confidence and technical competence, while ensuring smoother integration and project delivery.

What are entry level embedded software engineers?

Entry level embedded software engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test software that runs on specialized hardware devices, such as microcontrollers or embedded systems, often at the start of their careers. They typically work with programming languages like C or C++ and collaborate closely with hardware engineers to ensure software and hardware integration. These roles often involve tasks such as writing code for device drivers, debugging software, and performing basic testing, all under the guidance of more experienced engineers. Entry level positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to embedded systems, providing foundational experience in this field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Embedded Software vs Entry Level Firmware Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Embedded SoftwareEntry Level Firmware Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fieldBachelor's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
Work EnvironmentEmbedded systems development, hardware integration, real-time OSFirmware development, microcontroller programming, hardware interfacing
Industry UsageConsumer electronics, automotive, medical devicesConsumer electronics, IoT devices, industrial equipment
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Embedded Software and Entry Level Firmware Engineer roles often overlap in skills and industry usage. Both require knowledge of microcontrollers, programming languages like C, and understanding of hardware-software integration. The main difference lies in terminology: embedded software focuses broadly on software running on embedded systems, while firmware engineering emphasizes low-level programming directly on hardware. Both roles are essential in developing embedded products across various industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA? For Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Embedded Software jobs in Ames, IA are:
Entry Level Embedded Software jobs near you
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 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.
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

Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 - Commensurate with experience
Visa Sponsorship is NOT available for this position
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
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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