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

Tuson Manufacturing Company

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CNC Machine Operator, Experienced and Entry level

Story City, IA · On-site

$18 - $30/hr

Experience with CNC programming (G-code or CAM software) is a plus * Strong understanding of ... responsible way Entry-Level CNC Machine Operator Requirements Responsible for performing ...

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All JobsSoftware JobsEntry Level Software JobsEntry Level Software Jobs in Ames, IA

Entry Level Software information

See Ames, IA salary details

$28.9K

$98.1K

$236.4K

How much do entry level software jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level software in Ames, IA is $98,128.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,100.00 and $103,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level SoftwareEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree; some roles may require coding bootcampsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; foundational coding skills
Work EnvironmentOffice, remote, or hybrid; often in tech companies or IT departmentsSimilar; typically in tech firms, startups, or IT teams
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly for entry-level roles in tech, IT, and software companiesSpecifically refers to roles involving software development tasks

Entry Level Software is a broad term for initial roles in tech, while Entry Level Software Developer specifically focuses on software creation and coding tasks. Both roles often require similar foundational skills, but the developer role emphasizes programming and software design. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right positions based on their skills and career goals.

What is the easiest entry-level tech job?

An entry-level software role such as a junior developer or QA tester is often considered among the easiest tech jobs to start with minimal experience. These positions typically require basic programming knowledge, familiarity with common tools, and sometimes certifications like CompTIA or entry-level coding bootcamps.

What is L1, L2, L3, and L4 developer?

In the context of entry-level software roles, L1, L2, L3, and L4 typically refer to different levels of experience and responsibility, with L1 being the most junior and L4 more senior. These levels often indicate progression in skills, complexity of tasks, and expectations, with L1 focusing on basic coding and L4 involving system design and leadership. Employers may use these designations to structure career growth and assign appropriate tasks based on experience.

What kinds of projects and tasks can an entry-level software developer expect to work on?

Entry-level software developers typically start by working on smaller features, bug fixes, or assisting with code maintenance under the supervision of more experienced team members. You'll often participate in code reviews, write unit tests, and gradually take on more complex assignments as you build your skills. Collaboration is common, so expect to work closely with other developers, testers, and sometimes product managers. Over time, you'll gain exposure to the full software development lifecycle and have opportunities to contribute to larger projects.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers or software architects at large tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses as part of compensation packages.

What are entry level software jobs?

Entry level software jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the software industry, typically requiring little to no prior professional experience. These roles often include titles like Junior Software Developer, Software Engineer I, or Software Intern, and focus on basic coding, testing, and debugging tasks under supervision. Entry level software professionals work closely with more experienced engineers to build their skills and gain familiarity with software development processes, tools, and best practices. These jobs usually require a foundational understanding of programming languages and may require a degree in computer science or related fields.

How to get a software job with no experience?

Entry level software positions often require foundational programming skills in languages like Python, Java, or C++, which can be gained through online courses or coding bootcamps. Building a portfolio of personal projects, contributing to open-source, and obtaining certifications such as CompTIA or Microsoft can improve your chances, even without prior work experience.

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 generally need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), algorithms, and data structures, often supported by a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic software development tools, and sometimes relevant certifications (such as AWS Certified Developer or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals) is helpful. Strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for writing effective code, collaborating with teams, and adapting to evolving project requirements.
What are the most commonly searched types of Software jobs in Ames, IA? The most popular types of Software jobs in Ames, IA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Software jobs in Ames, IA? For Entry Level Software jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Software jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Software jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Entry Level Software jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Entry Level Software job openings:
Entry Level Software jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Software job openings in Ames, IA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 70% In-person, 20% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,128 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer

RFA Engineering

Johnston, IA

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 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