ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Software Developer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Kasmo Global

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA

Software Engineer Johnston, Iowa Duration: long term This role supports custom machine development for the R&D team, utilizing Nvidia Jetson to develop applications for these machines.

My3Tech Inc

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA

Software Engineer - Mid-Level Location: Johnston, IA Candidates must reside within a 50-mile radius ... Deploy applications to AWS and Azure using DevOps methodologies including CI/CD, automated testing ...

John Deere

Senior Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$114K - $151K/yr

Senior Software Engineer - Revolving Credit & Merchant Experience As a Staff Software Engineer - Revolving Credit & Merchant Experience for JD IT Financial located in Johnston, IA, you will provide ...

Genesis10

Software Engineer - 100% Remote

Johnston, IA · Remote

$49.40 - $59.40/hr

Genesis10 is currently seeking a Software Engineer - Remote position with a Global Agricultural and Food Corporation located in Johnston, IA. This is a 6+ month contract opportunity. Pay Range: $49 ...

Varsity Tutors

Software Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$40/hr

Deep knowledge of software development methodologies, programming languages, version control, software architecture, testing strategies, debugging, database design, API development, and deployment ...

Baker Group

DevOps Engineer - IT

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$50 - $68.50/hr

The DevOps Engineer will work closely with the software development team and under the guidance of the DevOps Architect and Team Lead to implement solutions that improve development velocity, system ...

Genesis10

Software Engineer - 100% Remote

Johnston, IA · Remote

$49.40 - $59.40/hr

Genesis10 is currently seeking a Software Engineer - Remote position with a Global Agricultural and Food Corporation located in Johnston, IA. This is a 6+ month contract opportunity. Pay Range: $49 ...

RFA Engineering

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Familiarity with software testing, validation, or DevOps workflows * Experience with telemetry, logging, or real-time data analysis tools * Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and automated testing ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSoftware Developer JobsSoftware Developer Jobs in Ames, IA

Software Developer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$47K

$109.5K

$162.5K

How much do software developer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for software developer in Ames, IA is $109,461.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,100.00 and $127,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Software Developer, you need strong programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or JavaScript, as well as a solid understanding of computer science fundamentals and a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with development tools such as Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and frameworks like React or .NET is typically required, along with knowledge of agile methodologies or certifications. Problem-solving ability, attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills that help you excel in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills ensure you can build reliable, maintainable software and adapt to evolving project requirements and technologies.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced software engineers, especially those in senior or specialized roles such as machine learning engineers, software architects, or those working at major tech companies, can earn $500,000 or more annually. Compensation often includes base salary, bonuses, and stock options, particularly in competitive markets or executive-level positions.

What are some common challenges software developers face when working on team-based projects?

Software developers often encounter challenges such as coordinating with team members across different time zones, managing code integration from multiple contributors, and maintaining clear communication about project requirements. Effective use of version control systems like Git and regular participation in code reviews can help mitigate these issues. Additionally, adapting to evolving project goals and balancing technical debt with feature development are common hurdles that require strong collaboration and problem-solving skills.

What Do Software Developers Do?

Software developers design and create computer software programs and systems for their employer or client. Their job is to apply the principles of engineering, analytics, and computer science toward the development and testing of all kinds of software and applications. On a day-to-day basis, a software developer helps create and test software from start to finish. They discuss and analyze user requests and requirements, then research and brainstorm practical solutions to meet those needs, and determine the best course of action to create the application. As a software developer, you may develop an entirely new program or improve an existing one; you are responsible for a program’s overall framework and must design precise workflow charts that explain to programmers what code is needed for different aspects of the program.

Is AI replacing software developers?

AI is automating certain coding tasks and improving software development processes, but it does not replace software developers. Developers are needed to design, oversee, and interpret AI tools, as well as to create complex, innovative solutions that require human judgment and creativity.

Is software developer still in demand?

Software developers are in high demand due to ongoing digital transformation across industries, with strong job growth projected in the coming years. Skills in programming languages, such as Java, Python, or JavaScript, and familiarity with development tools increase employability in this field.

What work does a software developer do?

A software developer designs, writes, tests, and maintains computer programs and applications. They use programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ and often collaborate with teams to develop software solutions that meet user needs and specifications.

What is the difference between Software Developer vs Software Engineer?

AspectSoftware DeveloperSoftware Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field; coding certificationsBachelor's or higher in CS or Software Engineering; certifications may vary
Work EnvironmentDevelops, tests, and maintains software applicationsDesigns and develops software systems; often involved in architecture
Industry UsageCommonly used in tech companies, startups, and IT firmsUsed interchangeably with Software Developer in many organizations

While the roles often overlap, Software Developers focus on coding and building applications, whereas Software Engineers typically work on designing and architecting complex systems. Both roles require similar credentials and are integral to software creation, but their scope and responsibilities can differ based on project size and company structure.

What is a Software Developer?

A Software Developer is a professional who designs, builds, tests, and maintains computer programs or applications. They use programming languages to create software solutions that meet user needs, whether for desktop, mobile, or web platforms. Software Developers work closely with other team members such as designers, analysts, and testers to ensure the final product is functional, reliable, and user-friendly. Their responsibilities can range from writing code and fixing bugs to collaborating on system architecture and deploying updates.
More about Software Developer jobs
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 jobs in Ames, IA? For Software Developer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Developer jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Developer jobs in Ames, IA are:
What cities near Ames, IA are hiring for Software Developer jobs? Cities near Ames, IA with the most Software Developer job openings:
Software Developer jobs near you
Software Engineer - Computer Vision & Machine Learning

Software Engineer - Computer Vision & Machine Learning

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$70K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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.
Software Engineer - Computer Vision & Machine Learning
RFA Engineering is seeking a Software Engineer in the field of Robotics, Perception, Vision Processing and Machine Learning to architect, develop and integrate new intelligent features into the next generation of agricultural and off-highway equipment.
Responsibilities
  • Develop machine learning and computer vision algorithms for automation and autonomy product development.
  • Design, implement, and optimize machine learning algorithms and computer vision solutions for production intent hardware. Work with Stereo, monocular cameras, Lidar, radar, edge compute devices.
  • Data collection and processing for CVML algorithms development. Utilize data-driven insights to inform your development process and improve models/algorithms.
  • Quickly learn new technologies, tools, and methodologies in the fields of computer vision and machine learning. Stay abreast of the latest research and trends, applying this knowledge to your work and sharing insights with the team.
  • Primary needs relating to theoretical geometric computer vision - involving concepts like singletons, SLAM (localization, mapping), triangulation, projective geometry, feature detection, depth estimation, camera models/calibration/rectification
  • Secondary needs relating to Machine Learning algorithm development. All aspects of model architecture development including: problem definition, data collection/prep, model selection, architecture design, training , evaluation, optimization, deployment, monitoring/maintenance.

Technical Qualifications:
  • Experience with data visualization, data management, data querying (eg SQL, Tableau, PowerBI, matplotlib)
  • Experience developing and understanding computer vision and machine learning algorithms (models development in pytorch, tensorflow, experience with linear algebra, optimization etc.)
  • Ability to quickly learn state of the art technologies, state of the art research in the domains of computer vision, AI, robotics and be able to implement.
  • Competent in generating, interpreting, and communicating statistical data well and measuring the right statistics to answer the right questions
  • Comfortability reading documentation to read and write good code
  • Proficiency in C++ and/or Python.
  • Experience with Databricks, AWS, cloud
  • Technical expertise matters less in comparison to intelligence, work ethic, and willingness to learn.

Personal Qualification
  • Exceptional work ethic and willingness to learn.
  • Trailblazing spirit: Eager to solve problems in the autonomous robotics and AI space that have never been solved before.
  • Passionate about artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, autonomy, and automation.
  • Eager to OWN work fully and to make decisions with autonomy to deliver.

Pay Range: $70,000-$140,000 - Commensurate with experience
Visa Sponsorship is NOT available for this position.
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.

Apply