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Entry Level Engineering Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... organization. Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with developing and ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

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 ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

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 ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Electrical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

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 ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Industrial

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... * Entry level role, typically supervised by a Project Manager. * Offers information, helps with ... Position normally requires a 4-year Engineering or Construction Management degree and 0-1 year of ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

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

Gary W Clem, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

ALMACO in Nevada, IA is seeking entry level Mechanical Engineer or Senior Designer who want to work on a small team, to support peak work load. This position is a temporary, 60 day position, with the ...

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All JobsEngineering JobsEntry Level Engineering JobsEntry Level Engineering Jobs in Ames, IA

Entry Level Engineering information

See Ames, IA salary details

$29.3K

$67.8K

$115.4K

How much do entry level engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level engineering in Ames, IA is $67,849.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,400.00 and $76,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level engineer?

Entry level engineering jobs are positions designed for recent graduates or individuals with limited professional experience in the engineering field. These roles typically involve assisting senior engineers with projects, performing basic technical tasks, and gaining hands-on experience in a specific engineering discipline such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or software engineering. Entry level engineers often receive on-the-job training and mentoring to develop their skills and advance their careers. These roles serve as a foundation for future growth and specialization within the engineering industry.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level engineer?

As an entry-level engineer, you’ll typically begin by supporting more senior engineers on a variety of projects, which may include drafting designs, running simulations, conducting data analysis, or assisting with testing and troubleshooting. Your daily tasks will often involve collaborating with team members, participating in meetings, and learning industry-specific tools and software. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility, such as managing small project components or communicating directly with clients. This role is designed to help you build foundational technical skills while gaining exposure to different aspects of engineering within your organization.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Engineer, you need a solid educational background in engineering fundamentals, strong problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in mathematics, usually obtained through a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, industry-specific modeling programs, and basic project management systems is typically expected. Effective communication, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are important soft skills that help you integrate into engineering teams and adapt to new challenges. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring accurate technical work, smooth collaboration, and ongoing professional development in a dynamic engineering environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Engineering vs Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level EngineeringMechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related fieldBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; often requires licensure for advanced roles
Work EnvironmentInternships, entry-level positions in offices, labs, or manufacturing plantsDesign, analysis, testing in offices, labs, manufacturing facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, manufacturing, construction, technology companiesManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, energy sectors

Entry Level Engineering typically involves foundational engineering tasks with a bachelor's degree, often in various disciplines, and is used across many industries. Mechanical Engineering is a specialized field focusing on design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, often requiring specific technical skills and licensure for advanced roles. Both roles share similar work environments but differ in specialization and scope.

How to get hired as an entry-level engineer?

To get hired as an entry-level engineer, candidates should obtain a relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field, develop practical skills through internships or projects, and demonstrate proficiency with industry tools and software. Building a strong resume that highlights technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork experience increases employment prospects. Certifications such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) can also enhance job opportunities.

How to get into entry level engineering with no experience?

Entry level engineering positions often require a relevant degree in engineering or a related field. Gaining practical skills through internships, certifications, or personal projects can improve your chances, and demonstrating proficiency with tools like CAD or programming languages can be beneficial for entry-level candidates.

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

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Engineering jobs in Ames, IA?

For Entry Level Engineering jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Engineering job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,849 per year, or $32.6 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Johnston, IA

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 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

    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