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

RFA Engineering

XIL Integration Engineer

Urbandale, IA · On-site

$75K - $110K/yr

RFA Engineering ( www.rfamec.com ) supports industry-leading clients through the full software ... Configure and maintain Linux-based development and test systems. * Debug complex hardware, software ...

Workiva, Inc.

Senior Staff Software Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$119K - $158K/yr

We're hiring a Senior Staff Software Engineer who can lead across complex technical work, act as a ... Help define system behavior by capturing specifications from code, tests, logs, and the people ...

Harris

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Requirements: - Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Computer Science, Engineering, related field, or equivalent work experience. - 3+ years of experience in software development, with proficiency in one ...

Workiva, Inc.

Principal Software Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

$132K - $177K/yr

We are hiring a Principal Software Engineer who can operate across multiple modes of work: platform ... Create durable artifacts such as runbooks, decision logs, and tests that can be handed off and ...

SHAZAM

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the development, maintenance and improvement of software applications with minimal guidance from more experienced engineers. This ...

SHAZAM

Software Engineer

Johnston, IA · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting the development, maintenance and improvement of software applications with minimal guidance from more experienced engineers. This ...

Harris

Software Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Software Engineer will work with colleagues to deliver reliable and scalable applications that contribute to keeping first responders in the field safe, efficient, and informed with mission ...

Baker Group

Software Developer - BIM VDC

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$47.75 - $63.25/hr

Write and maintain automated tests to support a higher standard of software quality * Adhere to security best practices and utilize security tooling as directed by the Dev Experience team, DevOps ...

Workiva, Inc.

Staff Data Engineer

Ames, IA · On-site

Experience in building and implementing various types of tests to ensure high-quality software ... Expertise in modern programming languages such as JavaScript, Java, Go, Python, etc., enabling you ...

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Software Test Engineer information

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How much do software test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for software test engineer in Ames, IA is $50.35, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.15 and $57.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

More about Software Test Engineer jobs
What are popular job titles related to Software Test Engineer jobs in Ames, IA? For Software Test Engineer jobs in Ames, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Software Test Engineer jobs in Ames, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Software Test Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:
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% Internship, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $104,733 per year, or $50.4 per hour.

Entry Level Software Engineer (Python)

RFA Engineering

Johnston, IA

$65K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 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.

Entry Level Software Engineer

    This position is associated with developing and maintaining system automation tests for the next generation of embedded controllers. Candidates should be able to collaborate with development teams to deliver a full suite of automated tests to ensure consistent high code quality and features.

    Responsibilities

    • Write and maintain system-level automated tests written in Python.
    • Contribute to test strategy and architecture as required
    • Debug intermittent test failures to determine root cause, and assign software defects as needed.
    • Working to improve test yield of existing test cases. This may mean collaborating with software developers and triaging test failures.
    • Coordinate the technical execution of test scripting with additional resources.
    • Attend regular meetings and stand-ups in order to respond to changing needs.
    • Attend meetings in-person with development teams to identify automation testing needs.
    • Attend meetings with Product Test Leads to define the test strategy, and steps to execute for a given test case.

    Requirements

    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering. Other degrees are considered if relevant experience exists.
    • Professional proficiency in Python with demonstrated experience in automation, testing, or software development.
    • Strong verbal and written communication skills

    Desired Attributes

    • General machine knowledge of agriculture or off-road equipment and machinery
    • Practical working knowledge and application of UDP, TCP/IP, CAN, or other networking communication protocols.
    • Basic experience with microcontrollers such as Arduino, RaspberryPi, or more complex embedded systems.
    • Self-motivated, quick learner, with an any-problem-can-be-solved attitude
    • Strong mathematical and analytical problem-solving skills
    • Ability to thrive in a team environment
    • Experience with Linux Ubuntu
    • Experience with Bash scripting.
    • Experience with C++ or Qt

    Pay Range: $65,000-$90,000 – 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

    #ZR