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Entry Level Product Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of ... Our work includes concept development, product design, documentation, problem-solving, simulation ...

... but entry level being considered. Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position. About RFA Engineering RFA Engineering has provided product development and engineering services to industry ...

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Support product development activities from concept through production. * Create and maintain ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Product Development information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$23

$39

How much do entry level product development jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level product development in Iowa is $23.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.18 and $24.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level product development professionals, and how can they overcome them?

Entry-level professionals in product development often face challenges such as balancing multiple project priorities, quickly adapting to changing product requirements, and effectively communicating ideas within cross-functional teams. To overcome these challenges, it's helpful to stay organized by using project management tools, proactively seek feedback from more experienced colleagues, and actively participate in team meetings to improve communication skills. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to learning from setbacks will also help new product developers build confidence and advance in their roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Product Development vs Entry Level Product Design?

AspectEntry Level Product DevelopmentEntry Level Product Design
Primary FocusCreating, testing, and refining products from concept to productionDesigning the visual and functional aspects of products
Required SkillsEngineering, prototyping, project managementSketching, CAD, user experience
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, R&D labs, cross-functional teamsDesign studios, collaborative teams, software tools
Common CertificationsEngineering degrees, CAD certificationsDesign software certifications, portfolio

Entry Level Product Development and Entry Level Product Design share overlapping skills like creativity and teamwork but differ mainly in focus. Product development emphasizes engineering and manufacturing processes, while product design centers on aesthetics and user experience. Both roles are essential in bringing a product from concept to market, often working closely together in the product lifecycle.

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

To excel in Entry Level Product Development, you need a background in product design, basic market research, and project management, often supported by a relevant degree such as business, engineering, or design. Familiarity with tools like Adobe Creative Suite, CAD software, and project management platforms (e.g., Jira or Trello) is commonly expected. Creativity, problem-solving, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills that help drive innovation and effective collaboration. These competencies ensure the successful creation, refinement, and launch of products that meet market needs and organizational goals.

What is an entry level product development job?

An entry level product development job involves assisting in the design, creation, and improvement of new products or features under the supervision of more experienced team members. Responsibilities often include conducting market research, creating prototypes, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and gathering user feedback. This role is ideal for recent graduates or individuals new to the field who are looking to gain experience in bringing ideas to market. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and a willingness to learn are important for success in entry level product development positions.

What qualifications do you need to be an entry level product development?

Entry level product development roles typically require a bachelor's degree in engineering, design, or a related field. Strong problem-solving skills, familiarity with design software like CAD, and basic knowledge of manufacturing processes are also important qualifications for this position.
What are the most commonly searched types of Product Development jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Product Development jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Product Development jobs in Iowa? For Entry Level Product Development jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Product Development jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Product Development jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Product Development job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,705 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.
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 the design and development of embedded software that controls machine operations and functions. Various development roles are available that require use of C, C++, Python or Simulink MBSD programming languages. Testing methods include bench testing with controllers, extensive vehicle simulation testing, and physical full machine testing.
Responsibilities
  • Development of embedded software applications that control vehicle operation using C, C++, or Simulink MBSD.
  • Integration of software in a multi-developer Agile team using Continuous Integration process.
  • Functional and integration testing prior to hand-off to software test and evaluation group
  • Development and release status tracking using the Agile development process.
  • Troubleshooting and debugging using unit tests, vehicle simulators and bench testing of controllers with hardware in the loop.
  • Creation of software design documentation.

Requirements
  • Bachelor's or Master's of Science degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering or related degree.
  • Experience with C or C++ programming languages
  • Strong mathematical and analytical problem solving skills
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a team environment
  • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
  • Must have a valid driver's license

Desired Attributes
  • Experience with CAN J1939 communication protocol
  • Previous experience in a structured software development process
  • Ability to interpret hardware schematics for wiring and electronic controllers
  • Ability to interpret software requirements and state diagrams
  • Knowledge of common software development tools such as VisualBasic,
  • Experience with Simulink Model Based Software Design
  • General machine knowledge of industrial equipment or machinery

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
  • Health Savings Account
  • TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
  • Vision Insurance
  • Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Company Paid Long-Term Disability
  • Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
  • Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
  • 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.