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Assistant Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Assistant I

Oakland, CA ยท Hybrid

$39.62 - $56.78/hr

Position Summary The Engineering Assistant I provides entryโ€‘level technical and administrative support to engineering teams while gaining handsโ€‘on experience in an engineering environment. Under ...

Assistant Engineer

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$31.75 - $42/hr

Description Wood Rodgers, a leading engineering consulting firm, is hiring an assistant engineer to join our Transportation Department. Start your engineering career at a Best Places to Work company.

Assistant Engineer

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $42/hr

Assistant Engineer Department: Land Development Employment Type: Full Time Location: Sacramento, CA Compensation: $30.00 - $42.00 / hour Description Are you seeking a career where you can foster a ...

Assistant Engineer

San Ramon, CA ยท On-site

$82K - $100K/yr

Communicates during projects including coordination with other engineers/BIM staff and with design partners. * Supports team objectives, goals, and projects. Assist colleagues who are in direct ...

Assistant Engineer

Roseville, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $42/hr

Assistant Engineer Department: Land Development Employment Type: Full Time Location: Roseville, CA Compensation: $30.00 - $42.00 / hour Description Are you seeking a career where you can foster a ...

Assistant Engineer

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$82K - $100K/yr

Communicates during projects including coordination with other engineers/BIM staff and with design partners. * Supports team objectives, goals, and projects. Assist colleagues who are in direct ...

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Assistant Programmer information

See California salary details

$11

$39

$67

How much do assistant programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant programmer in California is $39.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.38 and $50.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Assistant Programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Programmer, you need foundational knowledge in programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), software development fundamentals, and typically a degree or coursework in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems (like Git), integrated development environments (IDEs), and debugging tools is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with team members and deliver quality code. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently supporting software projects and ensuring reliable, maintainable applications.

What are Assistant Programmers?

Assistant Programmers are entry-level professionals who support the development, testing, and maintenance of software applications. They typically work under the supervision of senior programmers or software engineers, helping to write code, debug programs, and document software processes. Their main role is to assist with routine programming tasks and learn industry best practices, making this position a common starting point for a career in software development.

Is AI replacing coders?

Assistant programmers and other coding professionals use AI tools to automate repetitive tasks and improve efficiency, but AI currently serves as a supplement rather than a replacement for human coders. Skilled programmers are needed to design, oversee, and interpret AI-generated code, ensuring quality and security in software development.

What is an assistant programmer?

An assistant programmer is a support role in software development, helping senior programmers with coding, debugging, and testing tasks. They often have basic programming skills in languages like Java, Python, or C++ and work under supervision to gain experience and develop their technical abilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by Assistant Programmers when joining a new development team?

Assistant Programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to the team's coding standards, learning new tools or frameworks, and understanding the existing codebase. It can also be a learning curve to effectively communicate with senior developers and contribute to collaborative projects. However, most teams provide mentorship, documentation, and code reviews to help new team members integrate smoothly and build confidence in their technical and interpersonal skills.

What's the average salary of a programmer?

The average salary of a programmer varies depending on experience, location, and specialization, but generally ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level programmers typically earn lower salaries, while experienced developers with skills in specific programming languages or tools can earn higher wages.

Is 27 too late to start coding?

Assistant programmers can start coding at any age, and many successful developers begin in their late twenties or later. Learning programming languages, building projects, and gaining experience are more important than age, and the tech industry values skills and problem-solving ability over age barriers.

What is the difference between Assistant Programmer vs Junior Developer?

AspectAssistant ProgrammerJunior Developer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate degree or diploma in computer science or related fieldSimilar, often an entry-level role with comparable educational background
Work EnvironmentSupportive team, assisting senior programmers in coding and testingHands-on coding, debugging, and developing software applications
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT firms, software companies, and tech departmentsUsed across similar industries, often interchangeable with Assistant Programmer in job listings

In summary, Assistant Programmers and Junior Developers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. The main difference lies in their roles: Assistant Programmers typically support and assist senior staff, while Junior Developers are more involved in actual coding and development tasks. Both positions serve as entry points into the software development industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Programmer job openings:
Assistant Engineer / Associate Civil Engineer

Assistant Engineer / Associate Civil Engineer

City of Healdsburg, CA

Healdsburg, CA โ€ข On-site

$98K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Salary : $98,592.00 - $151,944.00 Annually
Location : City Hall 401 Grove Street, Healdsburg, CA 95448
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 2026016
Department: Public Works
Opening Date: 06/25/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
The City of Healdsburg is seeking a full-time Assistant Engineer or Associate Civil Engineerto join the the Public Works Department. This position performs professional engineering work in design, review, site investigation, field inspection, construction administration, project management and related work associated with public works Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects and private development and to provide professional level support to an assigned supervisor.
The position may be filled at either the Assistant Engineer level or the Associate Civil Engineer level. Placement of the individual at a particular level will be based on a combination of factors including education, experience, certifications, and overall qualifications.
Assistant Engineer: $47.40 - 57.62 per hour
Associate Civil Engineer: $60.10 - 73.05 per hour
The ideal candidate will be a collaborative and solution-oriented professional who is passionate about public infrastructure and serving the community.
DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS
Assistant Engineer - This is the entry level class in the professional Engineer series. Positions in this class typically have limited related work experience and work under general supervision while completing job tasks. The Assistant Engineer class is distinguished from the Associate Civil Engineer level by the performance of less than the full range of duties assigned to the Associate level. Incumbents work under general supervision while completing job tasks, progressing to direction as procedures and processes of assigned area of responsibility are refined.
Associate Civil Engineer - This is the journey level class in the professional Engineer series and is distinguished from the Assistant Engineer level by the assignment of the full range of duties. Employees at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new, unusual or unique situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies within the work unit. Positions in this class are flexibly staffed and are normally filled by advancement from the Assistant level.
This class is distinguished from the Senior Civil Engineer in that the latter performs complex duties requiring specialized knowledge and provides technical and functional supervision over assigned staff.
Examples of Duties
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Duties may include, but are not limited to, the following:
  • Assist with the planning and performance of engineering work in support of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) projects, as assigned.
  • Assist with and provide review of private development projects for compliance with required standards.
  • Coordinate project activities with City staff, the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) and other committees for compliance with storm water permits; coordinate with PG&E on utility projects; research and document utility conditions and locations in the field.
  • Perform standard engineering tasks including surveying, plan check activities and inspections of project work; participate in construction tasks; make mathematical engineering calculations; review and interpret construction and utility maps, diagrams and plans, assist with researching and preparing cost estimates; conduct special studies including traffic studies; complete accurate detailed reports.
  • Oversee consultant procurement, project development, approvals, environmental review, design, construction and construction administration in accordance with funding requirements as administered by Caltrans and Caltrans Local Assistance.
  • Assist staff, property owners or other members of the public in answering questions or resolving concerns related to public and private property.
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service.
  • Foster an environment that embraces diversity, integrity, trust, and respect.
  • Be an integral team player, which involves flexibility, cooperation, and communication.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.

Typical Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Assistant Engineer
Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Some technical experience is desirable.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in engineering or a related field.
License and Certificate
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License may be required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
Associate Civil Engineer
Experience and Training
Any combination of experience and training that would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience:
Three years of responsible experience similar to Assistant Engineer with the City of Healdsburg.
Training:
Equivalent to a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in engineering or a related field.
License and Certificate
Failure to obtain or maintain such required license(s) may be cause for disciplinary action.
Possession of a valid California Class C Driver License may be required at the time of appointment. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to a physical disability will be considered for accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
Possession of a valid Registration as a Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California.
Supplemental Information
HOW TO APPLY: Applicants must submit a clear, concise, completed online City Application along with any required supplemental application materials with the Human Resources Department by the filing deadline. If you do not submit your on-line application by the filing deadline, you will not be considered for this position. Please note, applications may be rejected if incomplete. All applicants will be reviewed and only those candidates determined to be most qualified on the basis of experience, training and education, as submitted, will be invited to participate further in the selection process. Resumes, CVs and cover letters may not be reviewed as part of the application screening process, unless the application specifically requests supporting materials.
HELPFUL TIPS WHEN APPLYING:
  • Your application information and your responses to the supplemental questions are evaluated and taken into consideration throughout the entire selection process.
  • List all employers and positions held within the last ten (10) years in the work history section of your application. Be as thorough as possible when responding to the supplemental questions.
  • You may include history beyond ten (10) years if related to the position for which you are applying. If you held multiple positions with one (1) employer, list out each position separately.
  • Failure to follow these instructions may impact your competitiveness in this process or may result in disqualification.
BACKGROUND SCREENING: Candidates who have successfully completed all prior phases of the selection process will be subject to fingerprinting and a background investigation prior to employment. Failure to comply with the background will result in the candidate not being considered further for that vacancy. Additional requirements, such as successful completion of a physical exam, drug screen, etc., may apply, depending on the duties and responsibilities of the position. If you receive a conditional job offer for the position, the requirements upon which the offer are contingent will be outlined in the conditional job letter.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER:The City of Healdsburg values diversity and is dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace environment that is representative of the community. The City is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and strives to build balanced teams without regard to race, color, ethnicity, religion, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, ancestry, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected under federal, state and/or local law. We aim to create a workplace that celebrates and embraces and diversity of our employees where all aspects of employment are based on merit, competence, performance, and business need.
The City does not discriminate on the basis of disability in employment. Requests for reasonable accommodations needed to participate in the recruitment process may be made by contacting Human Resources within five (5) business days of being noticed that an event requiring accommodation is occurring. You may also contact the Human Resources Department at (707) 431-3376.
The City of Healdsburg has a comprehensive set of benefits. Read more about these here
01
The purpose of the supplemental questions is to provide applicants the opportunity to elaborate on their experience, education, and training for the Police Dispatcher I position and to assist the Human Resources Department in assessing each applicant's qualifications. Your responses to the questions will be used to better understand your relevant experience, education, and training to determine which applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the recruitment process.
  • I understand

02
Have you completed the equivalent of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in engineering or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

03
How many years of experience do you possess in project development, delivery and/or design?
  • 0-1 years
  • 1-2 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 4-5 years
  • 5+ years

04
Are you familiar with or have experience working with Caltrans procedures?
  • Yes
  • No

05
How many years of field level experience do you possess in construction management, inspection and/or oversight?
  • 0-1 years
  • 1-2 years
  • 2-3 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 4-5 years
  • 5+ years

06
Do you possess a valid registration as a Professional Civil Engineer in the State of California?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question