Senior Python Data Analyst Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

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.

Software Test Automation & AI Integration Engineer

We are seeking multiple Software Test Automation & AI Integration Engineers to help revolutionize software testing processes for advanced vehicle and machine systems. This team will focus on improving efficiency, reducing manual testing effort, and developing intelligent tools that optimize software validation across Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL), Software-in-the-Loop (SIL), and on-vehicle testing environments.

This is a unique opportunity to help build the future of intelligent testing by combining software engineering, automation, AI-enabled workflows, and real-world machine testing.

Position Overview

As a Software Test Automation & AI Integration Engineer, you will work closely with system test teams, software developers, and product engineering groups to identify inefficiencies in current testing workflows and develop innovative solutions that improve software quality and testing speed.

The current testing environment relies heavily on manual on-machine software validation. This team will focus on creating smarter testing solutions through automation, intelligent monitoring, anomaly detection, AI-assisted analysis, and integration of new tools and workflows.

The ideal candidate is highly technical, curious, hands-on, and excited about solving difficult real-world problems involving software integration, CAN communication, machine systems, and intelligent automation.

Job Responsibilities

• Develop tools and workflows that improve efficiency in software regression testing and on-vehicle validation activities
• Design and implement automation solutions for SIL, HIL, and on-machine software testing environments
• Create intelligent monitoring and diagnostic tools for CAN communication, system behavior, and machine integration issues
• Develop AI-assisted workflows for test execution, anomaly detection, test plan navigation, and data analysis
• Collaborate with system test technicians, automation engineers, and software development teams to identify and eliminate testing pain points
• Improve test execution planning, coordination, logging, reporting, and traceability
• Integrate software tools with existing systems, APIs, databases, and development workflows
• Support development of proof-of-concept tools and rapidly prototype new testing solutions
• Analyze large volumes of machine and system data to identify trends, failures, and opportunities for optimization
• Help reduce regression testing cycle times through automation and smarter test strategies
• Participate in field testing activities and support on-machine software validation efforts
• Contribute to long-term strategies that modernize and transform software testing processes

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, or related field
• Experience with software testing, automation, systems integration, or validation engineering
• Experience working with embedded systems, machine systems, vehicle systems, or industrial equipment
• Understanding of CAN communication and machine network diagnostics
• Experience with scripting or programming languages such as Python, C++, JavaScript, or similar
• Experience developing automation tools, utilities, or test frameworks
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently in fast-paced development and testing environments
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with HIL or SIL testing environments
• Experience with AI/ML tools, agentic AI workflows, or intelligent automation
• Experience developing data analysis or anomaly detection solutions
• Familiarity with MQTT, Ethernet communication, telemetry systems, or machine connectivity solutions
• Experience integrating with APIs, databases, or cloud-based tools
• Familiarity with Azure DevOps (ADO) test plans or software development workflows
• Experience working with agricultural, construction, forestry, or off-highway equipment
• Experience supporting regression testing or system integration testing
• Understanding of test data collection, logging, and analytics systems

Desired Attributes

• Innovative mindset with a passion for improving inefficient processes
• Strong interest in AI-assisted engineering workflows and automation
• Comfortable working in both software and hands-on machine testing environments
• Self-starter capable of rapidly learning new tools and technologies
• Ability to identify opportunities for major efficiency gains and process improvements
• Willingness to challenge traditional testing approaches and develop revolutionary solutions

Pay Range: $90,000-$150,000 – 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