Software and Controls Engineering Technician

RFA Engineering (www.rfamec.com) is an engineering service provider dedicated to delivering our clients with timely engineering support and expertise. We are seeking an experienced candidate to become an integral part of our engineering team. The selected candidate will work with an experienced engineering staff using state-of-the-art engineering tools & processes. This position will operate onsite at our customer's world-class engineering and manufacturing facility.

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 and Controls Engineering Technician

This role offers a hands-on opportunity to directly influence software and controls development for industry-leading compact construction equipment. Working closely with a small team of engineers, this position focuses on testing, troubleshooting, and validating embedded software both in the lab and on machines. The role blends technical problem-solving with practical machine interaction in a fast-paced development environment.

Responsibilities

• Support software and controls testing activities under the direction of senior engineers and management

• Maintain engineering-owned machines with current test and development software across multiple control modules

• Track, document, and manage installed software versions using shared systems and files

• Execute lab-based and on-machine software verification and validation activities

• Assist with the development and execution of software test and verification procedures

• Build simple wiring harnesses and instrumentation for testing and data collection

• Identify, document, and submit software and controls issues using established tracking processes

• Diagnose issues through fault code monitoring, CAN data analysis, system watch files, and on-machine troubleshooting

• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to resolve or appropriately escalate issues

• Remain engaged in troubleshooting and root-cause discovery until resolution is achieved

• Perform daily work that may include lab testing, machine testing, or a combination of both

• Frequently climb in and out of machines as part of testing and validation activities

• Communicate progress, findings, and machine status to the engineering team

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelors degree in Agricultural Systems Technology, Automotive Systems Technology, Computer Science, Electronics Engineering or equivalent degree

• Minimum of one year of experience in software testing or development

• Ability to read electrical schematics and system documentation

• Basic experience with hand tools, soldering, and electrical connectors

• Ability and willingness to work onsite full-time in a hands-on engineering environment

Desired Skills and Experience

• Experience with C/C and/or MATLAB Simulink

• Understanding of serial communication protocols, including J1939 CAN or equivalent

• Experience using Vector tools such as CANape and CANalyzer

• Strong documentation, tracking, and organizational skills

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and Word

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and shifting priorities

• Strong communication skills and collaborative mindset

• High level of initiative, curiosity, and persistence in troubleshooting

• Comfort working directly on machines and in laboratory environments

Visa sponsorship is NOT available for this position.

Pay Range: $60,000-$85,000 – 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
• Health Savings Account
• TelaDoc: Virtual Health Care
• Vision Insurance
• Company Paid / Supplemental Life Insurance
• Company Paid Long-Term Disability
• Supplemental Short-Term Disability
• Retirement Savings Account (Traditional 401k & Roth 401k)
• Flexible Spending Plan Dependent Care
• Bonus Plan (Exempt Employees Only)
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Holidays
• Bereavement Leave
• Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
• Education Assistance

Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly

Salary : $60,000 - $85,000