Iowa State University is actively recruiting skilled Software Developers for multiple roles in Ames, Iowa, with salaries typically starting above $75K and reaching well over $100K depending on experience. These positions offer an opportunity to work on impactful academic and research-driven systems, including enterprise applications, data platforms, and scientific tools. Candidates with experience in modern programming frameworks, API development, and database systems can expect strong career growth in a collaborative, innovation-focused environment.
Must be eligible to work in the U.S. (no sponsorship)
Job Description
As a Software Developer I on our Web API and Integrations Development team in Information Technology Services (ITS), you will work directly with stakeholders to develop and maintain software that integrates with enterprise Learning Management Systems (LMS). You will analyze, design, program, test and implement new and highly integrated computer information systems to support critical learning applications. If you are collaborative and dedicated to continuous growth, this team can be a good place to expand your software development expertise.
ITS provides core computing, network services, enterprise systems and information security resources to the students, faculty, and staff of Iowa State University. The department functions as the university’s central IT unit, responsible for technologies and services that are used broadly across campus. ITS also partners with other IT professionals across campus to provide more specialized IT resources to ISU’s academic and business units.
Your strong software development, prioritization, and analysis skills will enable you to successfully evaluate, plan and deploy proposed system changes. On a typical day, you will draw from your technical knowledge to identify problems and implement solutions. The ability to communicate and relate to the varying levels of experience of our stakeholders will be critical to success.
Though this position can work off campus in the state of Iowa, you will be part of a team that is available to provide on-call support for production issues or unplanned maintenance. A strong desire to learn, an ability to quickly adapt, and a drive for constant progress will define the ideal candidate to join this exciting team.
Example of Duties
Participate in meetings with campus partners as well as team members to identify and document functional system requirements
Participate in the analysis of existing code to determine required changes
Participate in the design and review of new code and associated data structures
Modify existing source code and write new code as assigned adhering to team standards of maintainability
Write automated tests and validate accuracy of code changes against requirements
Provide on-call support for production issues
Troubleshoot and resolve minor production issues
Participate in after-action reviews following production issues and assist with implementation of identified process improvements
Preferred Qualifications
Degree in Computer Science, Software Development, Computer Engineering, MIS, or a related discipline
Experience with Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI) or Learning Management Systems (LMS)
Working knowledge of enterprise technology principles, RESTful Web Services, and APIs; experience with Java, JavaScript, or similar programming languages
Hands-on experience with Git or another version control system, including branching and merging workflows
Understanding of Agile/Lean practices and tools, such as JIRA and Confluence
Selection Process
The hiring process at Iowa State University typically follows a structured academic recruitment pipeline:
Online Application Submission Candidates apply via the official university careers portal with resume and cover letter.
Initial Screening HR reviews applications based on qualifications, technical skills, and experience.
Technical Evaluation / Interview
Coding or system design discussions
Questions on APIs, databases, and programming frameworks
Problem-solving scenarios
Panel or Hiring Manager Interview Focus on collaboration, communication, and alignment with research/academic projects.
Final Selection & Offer Selected candidates receive formal offer with salary, benefits, and joining timeline.
How To Apply
Follow these steps to apply for Software Developer roles:
Visit the official careers page of Iowa State University
Search for roles like “Software Developer I” or “Software Developer II”
P.S. Karthik is the Chief Editor of Studentscircles. With over 12 years of experience in the educational news industry, he specializes in bridging the gap between campus life and the professional world. Having helped thousands of students navigate the US job market, Karthik’s mission is to turn complex academic news into actionable career opportunities.
