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Entry Level Software Tester Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Mechanical Controls Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

We are seeking an entry level to experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, calibration, and performance tuning on prototype and ...

State of Iowa

Highway Technician - Spirit Lake

Ames, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Conducting routine sampling, inspection, and testing of materials used in highway construction ... software applications. As a Highway Technician, your responsibilities help fulfill our Mission ...

State of Iowa

Highway Technician - Dubuque

Ames, IA · On-site

$50K - $74K/yr

Conducting routine sampling, inspection, and testing of materials used in highway construction ... and software, switching between multiple applications, and completing high-volume typing tasks ...

RFA Engineering

Electrical Design Engineer

Dubuque, IA

$65K - $85K/yr

We are seeking an Entry-Level to Experienced candidate to become an integral part of our ... Experience in 3-D Modeling Software; experience (Preferred) * Previous experience with Windchill or ...

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How much do entry level software tester jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level software tester in Iowa is $40.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.39 and $49.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level software tester do?

An entry level software tester is responsible for evaluating software applications to ensure they work as intended and meet quality standards. This typically involves executing test cases, reporting bugs, and working closely with developers to resolve issues. Entry level testers may also help write simple test scripts and document their findings. Their main goal is to help deliver reliable, user-friendly software products.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Software Tester, you need a basic understanding of software development principles, attention to detail, and familiarity with testing methodologies, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Experience with test management tools (like Jira or TestRail), bug tracking systems, and a grasp of scripting languages or automation tools are typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and a collaborative mindset help testers identify issues and work efficiently within a team. These skills ensure high-quality software releases by systematically detecting and reporting defects throughout the development cycle.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level software testers, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level software testers often encounter challenges such as understanding complex software systems, identifying subtle bugs, and effectively communicating issues to development teams. To overcome these, it's helpful to ask clarifying questions, thoroughly review documentation, and practice using testing tools. Building strong relationships with developers and other QA team members can also make it easier to resolve issues and learn best practices. Embracing continuous learning and seeking feedback can accelerate your growth in the role.
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Entry Level Software Tester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software Tester job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $84,994 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Mechanical Controls Engineer

RFA Engineering

Dubuque, IA • On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and validate control strategies for electro-hydraulic, powertrain, drivetrain systems, and machine implements.

  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, calibration, and performance tuning on prototype and production equipment.

  • Create and maintain mechanical and controls models using engineering tools such as MATLAB and Simulink.

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 entry level to 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.
Mechanical Controls Engineer
As a Mechanical Controls Engineer, you will work with a cross-functional engineering team to develop, test, and optimize machine systems that improve performance, productivity, efficiency, and operator experience. This role combines mechanical engineering principles with machine controls, allowing engineers to work directly with hydraulic systems, powertrains, vehicle dynamics, and off-highway equipment. You will participate in machine development activities from concept through production, using modeling, simulation, testing, and data analysis to create innovative solutions for advanced machine systems.
Responsibilities
  • Develop and validate control strategies for electro-hydraulic systems, powertrain systems, drivetrain systems, and machine implements.
  • Evaluate machine performance through testing, analysis, and system optimization.
  • Create and maintain mechanical and controls models using MATLAB, Simulink, and related engineering tools.
  • Conduct machine testing, troubleshooting, calibration, and performance tuning on prototype and production equipment.
  • Analyze hydraulic, powertrain, and machine operational data to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, reliability, and durability.
  • Support development of machine architecture, system requirements, and performance specifications.
  • Work closely with mechanical design, software, and test engineers to integrate and validate machine systems.
  • Investigate and resolve machine performance issues through root cause analysis and engineering problem-solving techniques.
  • Translate customer, operator, and field feedback into measurable product improvements.
  • Support product development efforts from concept, prototyping, and validation through production launch.
  • Create engineering documentation, test reports, validation plans, and system performance summaries .

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Agricultural Engineering, Robotics, or a related engineering field.
  • Understanding of machine systems including hydraulics, powertrains, drivetrains, thermodynamics, or vehicle dynamics.
  • Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles involving mechanical systems, testing, or product development.
  • Familiarity with engineering analysis, modeling, and simulation tools such as MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, Amesim, or similar platforms.
  • Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting engineering test data.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and mechanical problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to communicate technical concepts and work effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.

Desired Attributes
  • Experience developing or validating mobile equipment, agricultural equipment, construction equipment, automotive systems, or other off-highway machinery.
  • Knowledge of hydraulic system design, performance analysis, and troubleshooting.
  • Familiarity with powertrain systems, vehicle dynamics, transmission systems, or machine implement controls.
  • Experience conducting laboratory, field, or vehicle testing.
  • Proficiency with data acquisition systems, instrumentation, sensors, and machine diagnostics.
  • Exposure to control systems development, machine automation, or robotics.
  • Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Simscape, Amesim, CANalyzer, CANape, or similar engineering tools.
  • Hands-on experience operating, testing, or evaluating heavy equipment and machinery.

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Pay Range: $70,000-$100,000 - 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
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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