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Entry Level Protocol Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Entry Level Software Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

... Entry Level Software Engineer This position is associated with the design and development of ... Experience with CAN J1939 communication protocol * Previous experience in a structured software ...

Pacer Group

Electrical Engineer- Entry Level

Auburn, AL · On-site

$30 - $33/hr

Electrical Engineer- Entry Level Location: Auburn, AL 36832 Pay rate: $30-$33 per hour Shift ... A strong commitment to safety protocols and procedures in designing and maintaining electrical ...

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Entry Level Protocol Engineer information

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$30K

$69.4K

$118K

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

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level protocol engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

As an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you can expect to spend your days assisting in the design, implementation, and testing of network protocols. You'll likely work closely with senior engineers to troubleshoot issues, write and review code, and participate in team meetings to discuss protocol specifications and improvements. Collaboration with QA teams and developers is common to ensure interoperability and performance. Over time, you'll gain exposure to documentation, debugging tools, and the latest industry standards, helping you build a strong foundation in protocol engineering.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Protocol Engineer, you need a strong understanding of computer networking, programming (often in languages like C/C++ or Python), and a relevant degree in computer science or engineering. Familiarity with networking tools, packet analyzers (like Wireshark), and foundational knowledge of protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, or newer blockchain protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are essential for designing, testing, and maintaining reliable network or blockchain protocols that support robust and secure digital communication.

What is an Entry Level Protocol Engineer?

An Entry Level Protocol Engineer is a professional who assists in designing, implementing, and maintaining communication protocols for computer networks and distributed systems. These protocols are sets of rules that enable devices to communicate efficiently and securely. In this role, engineers collaborate with senior team members to troubleshoot issues, write code, perform testing, and ensure interoperability between systems. The position typically requires knowledge of networking concepts, programming languages, and an understanding of protocol standards. Entry level engineers gain practical experience and foundational skills needed for more advanced engineering roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Protocol Engineer vs Network Technician?

AspectEntry Level Protocol EngineerNetwork Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate degree or relevant certifications (e.g., Cisco CCNA)Associate degree or certifications (e.g., CompTIA Network+)
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and troubleshooting network protocols and systemsInstalling, maintaining, and repairing network hardware and connections
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, IT services, networking companiesCorporate IT departments, internet service providers, telecom firms
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level networking roles involving protocolsMore hardware-focused, but overlaps in troubleshooting skills

While both roles require foundational networking knowledge and certifications, Entry Level Protocol Engineers focus on designing and testing network protocols, whereas Network Technicians primarily handle hardware installation and maintenance. Both roles are essential in networking environments and often share similar entry requirements, making them common points of comparison for those starting their IT careers.

More about Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Protocol Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Protocol Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Protocol Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Protocol Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 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 10 days ago

Job description

Entry Level Software Engineer

Job Category: Emb Sys Eng Dev

Full-Time

Hybrid

Urbandale, IA 50131, USA

Job Details

Description

RFA Engineering 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

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