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Software Test Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

RFA Engineering

Embedded Software Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$70K - $120K/yr

Troubleshooting and debugging using unit tests, vehicle simulators and bench testing of controllers with hardware in the loop. * Creation of software design documentation. Requirements * Bachelor ...

3M HEALTHCARE

Test Engineering Manager

Nevada, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Verify scripts from software development team and give green lights for deployments * Improve test ... Hiring and retaining test engineer talents Qualifications * Bachelor Degree or above, major in ...

RFA Engineering

AI Test Automation Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... AI Test Automation Engineer We are seeking multiple AI Test Automation Engineers to help transform ...

Danfoss

Functional Test Engineer - Hydraulics

Ames, IA · On-site

... software. • Understanding of hydraulic schematics and electrical schematics. • PC programing (C and/or C#) and PLC programing (Siemens TIA Portal - STL and SCL). • Ability to recognize test ...

Redapt

Senior Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$150 - $170/hr

Senior Software Engineer RedaptInc. is a pioneering world-class data center infrastructure ... Design, develop, test, and deliver modern applications and services across public cloud, private ...

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Software Test Engineer information

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How much do software test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test engineer in Ames, IA is $50.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.15 and $57.36 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a software test engineer?

A software test engineer conducts quality assurance tests on software to make sure programs are functioning properly. The three types of testing strategies are black box, where the tester is not familiar with the software, white box, where the tester is aware of the software’s internal structure, and gray box, which is a combination of the two. Responsibilities in this job include running diagnostic tests with a critical mindset, assessing the functionality, and reporting the findings.

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

To thrive as a Software Test Engineer, you need a solid understanding of software development life cycles, test methodologies, and proficiency in programming languages such as Python or Java, often supported by a degree in computer science or related fields. Familiarity with automation tools like Selenium, JUnit, or TestNG, and knowledge of bug tracking systems such as Jira are typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication set standout engineers apart by enabling thorough defect identification and clear reporting. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring software reliability, meeting quality standards, and facilitating smooth collaboration across development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by software test engineers when working with cross-functional development teams?

Software Test Engineers often encounter challenges such as aligning testing timelines with rapid development cycles, ensuring clear communication of bugs and requirements, and adapting to evolving project priorities. Collaborating closely with developers, product managers, and UX designers requires proactive communication and flexibility, especially when dealing with ambiguous requirements or shifting deadlines. To succeed, it's important to maintain detailed documentation, participate actively in agile ceremonies, and foster a collaborative attitude to resolve issues efficiently and ensure high-quality software releases.

What is the difference between Software Test Engineer vs QA Analyst?

AspectSoftware Test EngineerQA Analyst
CertificationsISTQB, CSTE, CSQAISTQB, CSTE, CSQA
Work EnvironmentDevelopment teams, testing labsQuality assurance departments, testing labs
Industry UsageSoftware companies, tech firmsSoftware companies, IT organizations
Primary FocusDesigning, executing tests, automationTest planning, process improvement, documentation

Both roles often require similar certifications and work in software testing environments within tech industries. The Software Test Engineer typically focuses on test case development, automation, and execution, while the QA Analyst emphasizes test planning, quality processes, and documentation. Understanding these distinctions helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and professionals for their testing needs.

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Software Test Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Software Test Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,733 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Software Test Automation & AI Integration Engineer

RFA Engineering

Urbandale, IA • On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 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 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
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.

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