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Entry Level Software Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA

Weitz

Electrical Project Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site

EPI is hiring both entry-level and experienced Project Engineer candidates. This role requires the ... Autodesk software programs (Revit AutoCAD and Navisworks) * Ability to learn specific job-related ...

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Entry Level Software Engineer information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$22.5K

$98.3K

$177.1K

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

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software engineer in Ankeny, IA is $98,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,900.00 and $112,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Software Engineer Do?

An Entry-Level Software Engineer, also called a Junior Engineer, works with a team of mid-level and senior engineers to develop, test, and maintain software applications and programs. The job duties of Junior Software Engineers typically include relatively simple routine tasks, such as debugging, testing, and code documentation. These tasks hone a Junior Engineer’s skills and familiarize them with the company’s code base. As Software Engineers gain more years of experience, they work on more complex development projects.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Engineer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and often a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, development frameworks, and basic software development tools is typically expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, eagerness to learn, and effective collaboration are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for building reliable software, adapting to evolving technologies, and contributing productively to team projects.

What types of projects do entry level software engineers typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other team members?

Entry level software engineers often start by working on smaller features, bug fixes, or assisting with testing and documentation within larger projects. They usually collaborate closely with senior engineers, product managers, and QA teams through code reviews, daily stand-ups, and pair programming sessions. This structure helps new engineers learn best practices, understand the codebase, and gradually take on more complex assignments. Effective communication and a willingness to learn are key to success in these collaborative environments.

What is the difference between Entry Level Software Engineer vs Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Software EngineerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in CS or related field; some internshipsBachelor's in CS or related; coding experience
Work EnvironmentTeam-based, collaborative projects, entry-level tasksProject-focused, coding, debugging, and implementation
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, IT departmentsSoftware firms, tech startups, enterprise IT
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Software Engineers and Software Developers often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in their roles: engineers may focus more on designing systems and architecture, while developers typically concentrate on coding and implementation. Both roles are essential in tech industries and often overlap in job functions, but understanding these distinctions helps job seekers target the right positions.

More about Entry Level Software Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Software Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA? The most popular types of Software Engineer jobs in Ankeny, IA are:
What cities near Ankeny, IA are hiring for Entry Level Software Engineer jobs? Cities near Ankeny, IA with the most Entry Level Software Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Engineer job openings in Ankeny, IA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,269 per year, or $47.2 per hour.
Entry Level Software Engineer

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

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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