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Robotics Engineer Jobs in Ankeny, IA (NOW HIRING)

Data Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Data Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

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 ...

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

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 ...

Entry Level Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$65K - $90K/yr

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 ...

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

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 ...

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA ยท On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Robotics Engineer information

See Ankeny, IA salary details

$27.2K

$99K

$158.4K

How much do robotics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for robotics engineer in Ankeny, IA is $98,964.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,200.00 and $119,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a robotics engineer do?

A Robotics Engineer designs, builds, and tests robots and robotic systems that are able to perform tasks typically done by humans. They work on integrating hardware and software to create machines that can automate processes in industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Their responsibilities often include researching new technologies, programming robotic systems, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with other engineers. Robotics Engineers play a key role in advancing automation and improving efficiency and safety in various sectors.

What does a robotics engineer do?

A robotics engineer designs and often builds robots from their plans and ensures the correct processes are in place for the robot to run properly. They work with their clients to determine costs and design specifications, then they design software systems to control robotic systems; build, configure, and test robots; and automate processes to increase production and precision. Once the robotic system is in place, the robotics engineer helps troubleshoot any problems the clients have with the system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a robotics engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotics Engineer, you need a strong background in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science, typically backed by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or C++, CAD software, and robotics platforms such as ROS (Robot Operating System) is essential. Problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing, building, and refining innovative robotic systems that meet complex technical and user requirements.

What types of projects do robotics engineers typically collaborate on with cross-functional teams?

Robotics Engineers often work closely with professionals from software development, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering to design, build, and test robotic systems. Projects can range from automating manufacturing processes to developing autonomous vehicles or medical robots. Collaboration is essential, as engineers must integrate hardware and software components while ensuring systems meet safety and performance standards. Effective communication and teamwork are key to successfully bringing innovative robotics solutions from concept to reality.

What is the difference between Robotics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectRobotics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Robotics, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering or related field; certifications in robotics or automationBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering; Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning, testing, and programming robotic systems in labs or manufacturing settingsDesigning and analyzing mechanical systems in various industries, including manufacturing, automotive, aerospace
Industry UsageRobotics companies, automation firms, manufacturingManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design

Robotics Engineers focus on designing and developing robotic systems, combining knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require engineering degrees, Robotics Engineers often need specialized skills in programming and automation. The choice depends on your interest in robotics and automation versus general mechanical system design.

Do robotics engineers make a lot of money?

Robotics engineers typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. According to industry data, the median annual wage for robotics engineers is higher than the average for engineering roles, reflecting the specialized skills and knowledge required in designing and developing robotic systems. Advanced skills in programming, control systems, and CAD tools can also influence earning potential.

Is there a high demand for robotics engineers?

Robotics engineers are in high demand across industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and automation due to the increasing adoption of robotics technology. The field is expected to grow significantly as companies seek to improve efficiency and develop advanced robotic systems, often requiring skills in programming, control systems, and hardware design.

What cities near Ankeny, IA are hiring for Robotics Engineer jobs?

Cities near Ankeny, IA with the most Robotics Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Robotics Engineer job openings in Ankeny, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,964 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Data Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA โ€ข On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

RFA Engineering (;/strong>) 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.
Data Engineer
As a Data Engineer, you will enable engineers, analysts, and data scientists to more effectively access, explore, and leverage enterprise data to generate insights, build models, and make data-driven decisions. This role focuses on designing scalable cloud-based data solutions, developing high-quality datasets, and creating data products that empower individual contributors to work independently with complex, high-volume data.
A key component of this role involves collaborating with embedded and digital engineering teams to define, capture, and analyze system performance, UI, and health metrics. You will help translate raw signals into actionable insights through analytics, dashboards, and monitoring tools.
Responsibilities
  • Design, build, and maintain cloud-based data pipelines and data products that support analytics, machine learning, and exploratory data analysis
  • Enable self-service data access by developing well-structured, documented, and discoverable datasets for individual contributors
  • Partner with embedded and digital engineering teams to define required performance, UI, and system health metrics and ensure appropriate data capture
  • Perform analytics and data aggregation to translate raw signals into meaningful insights and visualizations
  • Develop and maintain production-ready Python code and data workflows using SQL, PySpark, Databricks, and related technologies
  • Manage and optimize storage of diverse data types, including images, raster data, parquet files, time-series data, geo-tagged data, text, and other unstructured data
  • Build dashboards and interactive data applications using tools such as Tableau, Plotly Dash, or similar web-based visualization frameworks
  • Develop alerting and monitoring solutions (e.g., automated email notifications) to identify system performance issues or data pipeline failures
  • Collaborate in code reviews, documentation, and best-practice development to ensure maintainable and reproducible solutions
  • Manage multiple projects, priorities, and milestones while maintaining a strong sense of ownership and accountability

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent professional experience
  • Demonstrated experience designing and implementing cloud-based data solutions in production environments
  • Strong proficiency in Python for data engineering and analytics applications
  • Experience working with data access and processing technologies such as SQL, PySpark, Databricks, Postgres, and MongoDB
  • Experience building and maintaining datasets at scale across multiple data formats and structures
  • Familiarity with vehicle or embedded system data, including CAN signals
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to lead meetings, clearly document work, communicate proof-of-concepts, and collaborate across teams

Desired Attributes
  • Experience developing dashboards and visual analytics solutions using tools such as Tableau, Plotly, or similar platforms
  • Familiarity with spatial data and visualization tools such as Folium or Plotly
  • Experience implementing system monitoring, alerting, and health-tracking solutions
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to debug complex data and system issues
  • Ability to work effectively in a self-directed environment with minimal oversight
  • Proven ability to manage multiple schedules, deliverables, and stakeholders simultaneously
  • Knowledge of off-highway, agricultural, construction, or industrial equipment data systems is a plus

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
Salary Range: $80,000-$120,000/year: 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.