ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Software Developer Contract Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Baker Group

Systems Engineer - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... engineering software, select Baker Group's standard parts when applicable, and producing control ... Responsible for understanding and adhering to contract terms and conditions * Partner with ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Sheet Metal

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Electrical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Industrial

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Baker Group

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$102K - $132K/yr

Produce and review drawings using Revit; familiarity with related software packages is a plus ... Strong knowledge of contract language and terms * Ability to navigate and manage challenging ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

JEO Consulting Group

Electrical Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Develop electrical design plans and contract documents * Provide on-site inspection services ... Electrical distribution system modeling software experience * PLS CADD experience * Desire to ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Automation

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Varsity Tutors

Python Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Ability to explain Pythonic programming conventions, decorators, and generators while preparing ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer I - Mechanical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$73K - $99K/yr

... contracts, etc. * Participate in ongoing review, planning and formulation as it relates to the ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Baker Group

Project Engineer II - Electrical

Ankeny, IA · On-site

Builds solid understanding of job cost history, contract status and job overview reports. * Builds ... Strong technical skills, including but not limited to, experience with the following software ...

Booz Allen Hamilton

Computer Support Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$69K - $158K/yr

Interacts with network services, software systems engineering, and applications development to ... as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected ...

Varsity Tutors

Structural Engineering Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Adapts instruction using structural analysis software, code reference materials, and design problem ... Varsity Tutors does not contract in: Alaska, California, Colorado, Delaware, Hawaii, Maine, New ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsSoftware Developer Contract JobsSoftware Developer Contract Jobs in Ames, IA

Software Developer Contract information

See Ames, IA salary details

$47K

$109.4K

$162.4K

How much do software developer contract jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer contract in Ames, IA is $109,406.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,000.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software developer contract?

A Software Developer Contract job is a temporary or project-based position where a developer is hired for a specific duration, typically through a contract agreement. Contractors may work independently, for an agency, or directly with a company to develop, test, and maintain software applications. These roles often offer flexibility but may not include benefits like health insurance or paid time off. Contract developers are usually paid hourly or per project and may work remotely or on-site depending on the employer's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a software developer contract?

A successful Software Developer Contract requires strong programming abilities, solid knowledge of software development methodologies, and relevant project or domain expertise, often supported by a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, as well as tools such as Git, Agile frameworks, and certification in areas like AWS or Scrum, is highly valued. Excellent problem-solving skills, adaptability, effective communication, and an ability to quickly integrate into new teams are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable contract developers to deliver high-quality solutions while efficiently navigating diverse projects and rapidly changing work environments.

What are the typical work arrangements and expectations for contract software developers?

Contract Software Developers are usually hired for specific projects or defined timeframes, which can range from several weeks to multiple months, often working remotely or on-site depending on client needs. They are expected to quickly understand project requirements, deliver code efficiently, and collaborate with both in-house teams and other contractors, maintaining flexibility to adapt to different workflows and tools. Because contract roles may not include the same onboarding experience as permanent positions, self-motivation and strong independent work habits are important. This work arrangement provides valuable exposure to various industries and technologies, often expanding a developer’s professional network and enhancing career versatility.

Are software developers still in high demand?

Yes, software developers remain in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, the need for new applications, and the growth of cloud computing and cybersecurity. Strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, along with experience in agile environments, enhance job prospects for contract software developers.

How much do contract software developers make?

Contract software developers typically earn between $50 and $150 per hour, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Rates can vary based on skills such as proficiency in specific programming languages, frameworks, and the duration of the contract.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Developer jobs in Ames, IA?

The most popular types of Software Developer jobs in Ames, IA are:

What are popular job titles related to Software Developer Contract jobs in Ames, IA?

For Software Developer Contract jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Software Developer Contract jobs?

Cities near Ames, IA with the most Software Developer Contract job openings:

Software Developer Contract jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Developer Contract job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,461 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Systems Engineer - Automation

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Baker Group
Specialized Design Services • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Baker Groupexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE

The Systems Engineer-Automation will work with the engineering and leadership teams to assist with the direction of strategic initiatives that improve delivery and quality, as well as reducing costs.  Maintain and grow the “Client for Life” concept for existing and new clients.  Performs related work as required.

 ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be constructed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

  • Designing and developing distributed control systems (DCS) including PLC/HMI/SCADA programs, product selection for bill of material (BOM) based on customer specifications, creating sequence of operations (SOO), and creating Engineering Drawings in AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN.
  • Produce engineering and project control submittals utilizing Baker Group’s standard engineering software, select Baker Group’s standard parts when applicable, and producing control submittal with necessary information as per Baker Group’s standard control submittal format
  • Collaborate with engineering team to review product standards, control submittal formats, and any other items as necessary related to engineering control systems
  • Provide sales support as needed to assist project manager / sales to obtain more work. Assists in customer demos, estimating work, product application information and creation of proposals
  • Ensures employee satisfaction by continual coordination and communication
  • Responsible for executing scope and pointing out opportunities for items above and beyond contracted scope of work
  • Responsible for understanding and adhering to contract terms and conditions
  • Partner with engineering team and field electricians / technicians to continually improve our engineering process, accuracy, and quality.
  • Work with project managers, engineering team and mechanical design engineers to develop sequence of operations for equipment.
  • Re-estimate projects based upon engineered control submittals.
  • Provide as built documentation for operation and maintenance after the project completion
  • Assist with updating our as built process for a better quality product.
  • Initiate and / or participate turnover meetings to engineering and field discussing project scope, safety, timelines, etc.
  • Utilize and enhance company standard documents for business development, pre-proposal checklists, project tracking, field labor scheduling, turnovers, subcontracts, purchase orders, warranty, etc.

MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • 4-year Technical Degree OR
  • Equivalent experience in the Automation (PLC OR DDC) industry may be substituted for this requirement

 CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

  • N/A

 MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to work while minimally supervised and at times unsupervised
  • Understand numerous computer operating systems and drafting applications
  • Advanced knowledge of computers
  • Excellent typing skills

 ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY

At any given time, may be exposed to:

  • Normal office conditions
  • Construction job sites

 EQUIPMENT/TOOLS

  •  Laptop PC
  • PPE, when required (hard hat, safety vest, gloves, steel toe boots)
  • Computer operating systems
  • Clothing: normal office attire 
  • Designer Suite
  • Microsoft Visio
  • Tridium software

     Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.