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Utility Forester Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Utility Forester information

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$4

$23

$37

How much do utility forester jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility forester in Iowa is $23.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.25 and $26.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility forester?

Utility foresters are professionals who manage and oversee vegetation near utility infrastructure, such as power lines and pipelines. Their main responsibility is to ensure that trees and other vegetation do not interfere with utility operations, which helps prevent outages and maintain safety. Utility foresters perform inspections, coordinate tree trimming or removal, and ensure compliance with environmental regulations. They often work with utility companies, contractors, and governmental agencies to implement vegetation management plans.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility forester?

To thrive as a Utility Forester, you need knowledge of arboriculture, forestry principles, and utility vegetation management, usually supported by a degree in forestry or a related field. Familiarity with GIS mapping systems, tree risk assessment tools, and certifications like ISA Certified Arborist are typical technical requirements. Strong communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, reliable utility operations while protecting environmental and public interests.

What are some common challenges utility foresters face when balancing vegetation management with environmental regulations?

Utility Foresters often encounter the challenge of ensuring reliable utility line clearance while strictly adhering to environmental regulations and best practices. They must carefully plan and execute vegetation management activities to minimize ecological impact, protect wildlife habitats, and comply with federal, state, and local laws. This requires effective communication with landowners, regulatory agencies, and utility crews, as well as staying updated on evolving environmental guidelines. Successfully navigating these challenges helps maintain public safety and service reliability while promoting environmental stewardship.

What is the difference between Utility Forester vs Utility Arborist?

AspectUtility ForesterUtility Arborist
CertificationsTypically requires ISA Certified Arborist or Utility SpecialistOften requires ISA Certified Arborist or Utility Specialist
Work EnvironmentFieldwork managing vegetation near power lines, working with utility companiesFieldwork focused on tree care, pruning, and removal near utility infrastructure
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, forestry services, government agenciesUtility companies, tree care firms, municipal services

Utility Foresters and Utility Arborists share certifications and work environments related to vegetation management near power lines. However, Utility Foresters focus more on planning, mapping, and overseeing vegetation management programs, while Utility Arborists concentrate on tree pruning, removal, and maintenance. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe and reliable utility operations.

How do you become a utility forester?

To become a utility forester, typically a high school diploma or equivalent is required, followed by a bachelor's degree in forestry, environmental science, or a related field. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in tree identification and safety, and obtaining relevant certifications such as ISA Certified Arborist can improve job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Utility Forester jobs in Iowa?

For Utility Forester jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Utility Forester jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Utility Forester jobs in Iowa are:

Utility Forester jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Forester job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,206 per year, or $23.2 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 3 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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