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Associate Backend Developer Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

The Associate, Q ua ntitative Developer will be a member of the Quantitative Investment Science ... Design, build, andmaintainuser-facing applications and the backend services and APIs that support ...

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Associate Backend Developer information

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How much do associate backend developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate backend developer in Boston, MA is $19.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.73 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate backend developer do?

An Associate Backend Developer is responsible for building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs that power web and mobile applications. They work closely with frontend developers to ensure seamless data exchange and functionality. Typically, they write code in languages like Java, Python, or Node.js, troubleshoot bugs, and help optimize application performance. As entry-level professionals, they often learn on the job and contribute to larger projects under the guidance of senior developers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate backend developer?

To thrive as an Associate Backend Developer, you need a solid understanding of server-side programming languages (such as Java, Python, or Node.js), database management, and basic software engineering principles, usually supported by a relevant degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, RESTful API development, and cloud platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure) is commonly required. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and teamwork are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for building reliable, scalable backend systems and collaborating effectively within development teams.

What are some typical projects or tasks an associate backend developer can expect to work on during their first year?

As an Associate Backend Developer, you can expect to be involved in maintaining and enhancing existing APIs, writing and testing new server-side features, and fixing bugs under the guidance of more experienced developers. You'll likely participate in code reviews, collaborate with frontend developers to ensure smooth data exchange, and help optimize database queries. Over the first year, you'll gradually take on more complex assignments and become familiar with the team's development workflow, version control systems, and deployment processes.

What is the difference between Associate Backend Developer vs Junior Backend Developer?

AspectAssociate Backend DeveloperJunior Backend Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; some certificationsBachelor's degree; entry-level certifications optional
Work EnvironmentCollaborative teams in tech companies, startups, or IT departmentsEntry-level roles in similar environments, often under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in software development firms, tech startups, and IT servicesWidely used in tech companies, especially for entry-level positions

The Associate Backend Developer and Junior Backend Developer roles are similar, often overlapping in required skills and work environment. The associate role may imply slightly more experience or responsibility, but both are entry-level positions focused on backend development tasks within tech industries.

What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Boston, MA are:

What are popular job titles related to Associate Backend Developer jobs in Boston, MA?

For Associate Backend Developer jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Associate Backend Developer jobs?

Cities near Boston, MA with the most Associate Backend Developer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Backend Developer job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,558 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Software Engineer Backend/Platform Systems II (Full Time) - United States

Cisco

Boston, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Cisco Systems rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

59th of 160 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Please note this posting is to advertise potential job opportunities. This exact role may not be open today but could open in the near future. When you apply, a Cisco representative may contact you directly if a relevant position opens.

Applications are accepted until further notice.

Meet the Team

Our dedicated team is building the future of Cisco's AI-driven platforms and data infrastructure, driving innovation across the globe. You will join teams focused on developing advanced data pipelines, machine learning infrastructure, and analytics platforms for business-critical initiatives. As part of this collaborative environment, you will contribute to the advancement of emerging technologies in data and intelligent systems. Explore the opportunities at the intersection of backend engineering and AI, helping to transform how Cisco and its customers harness information and intelligent automation.

Your Impact

As a passionate software engineer, you bringexpertisein developing scalable backend systems, designing robust analytics platforms, and building infrastructure to support modern cloud and distributed computing initiatives. Your strong background in programming, distributed systems, and cloud platforms enables you to solve complex challenges with innovation and precision. By building andmaintainingkey software tools and backend infrastructure, you empower Cisco's business groups toleverageAI and data-driven insights for operational excellence and strategic growth. Your contributions ensure high-quality, reliable platforms that support Cisco's leadership in intelligent, scalable technology solutions.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Completion within the past 3 years, or current enrollment with expected completion within 12 months, of a certification or degree program (e.g.,Associates, Apprenticeship, Boot Camp, or Certification in a specialized program + 3 years of relevant experience,High School Diploma + 4 years of relevant experience,Bachelors + 2 years of relevant experience) orMasters + 0 years of relevant experience.

  • Proficiencyin at least one backend programming language: C/C++, Java, or Go.

  • Experience designing and developing microservices and APIs.

  • Strong understanding of Linux and fundamental networking concepts (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP).

  • Familiarity with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Conceptual understanding of AI/ML.

  • Experience with automation and software testing (e.g.,pyTest).

  • Familiarity with CI/CD pipelines.

  • Knowledge of networking protocols such as BGP and VLANs.

Why Cisco?

At Cisco, we're revolutionizing how data and infrastructure connect and protect organizations in the AI era - and beyond. We've been innovating fearlessly for 40 years to create solutions that power how humans and technology work together across the physical and digital worlds. These solutions provide customers with unparalleled security, visibility, and insights across the entire digital footprint.

Fueled by the depth and breadth of our technology, we experiment and create meaningful solutions. Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you'll see that the opportunities to grow and build are limitless. We work as a team, collaborating with empathy to make really big things happen on a global scale. Because our solutions are everywhere, our impact is everywhere.

We are Cisco, and our power starts with you.

Message to applicants applying to work in the U.S. and/or Canada:

Individual pay is determined by the candidate's hiring location, market conditions, job-related skillset, experience, qualifications, education, certifications, and/or training. The full salary range for certain locations is listed below. For locations not listed below, the recruiter can share more details about compensation for the role in your location during the hiring process.

U.S. employees are offered benefits, subject to Cisco's plan eligibility rules, which include medical, dental and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with a Cisco matching contribution, paid parental leave, short and long-term disability coverage, and basic life insurance. Please see the Cisco careers site to discover more benefits and perks. Employees may be eligible to receive grants of Cisco restricted stock units, which vest following continued employment with Cisco for defined periods of time.

U.S. employees are eligible for paid time away as described below, subject to Cisco's policies:

  • 10 paid holidays per full calendar year, plus 1 floating holiday for non-exempt employees

  • 1 paid day off for employee's birthday, paid year-end holiday shutdown, and 4 paid days off for personal wellness determined by Cisco

  • Non-exempt employees** receive 16 days of paid vacation time per full calendar year, accrued at rate of 4.92 hours per pay period for full-time employees

  • Exempt employees participate in Cisco's flexible vacation time off program, which has no defined limit on how much vacation time eligible employees may use (subject to availability and some business limitations)

  • 80 hours of sick time off provided on hire date and each January 1st thereafter, and up to 80 hours ofunused sick timecarried forwardfrom one calendar yearto the next

  • Additional paid time away may be requested to deal with critical or emergency issues for family members

  • Optional 10 paid days per full calendar year to volunteer

For non-sales roles, employees are also eligible to earn annual bonuses subject to Cisco's policies.

Employees on sales plans earn performance-based incentive pay on top of their base salary, which is split between quota and non-quota components, subject to the applicable Cisco plan. For quota-based incentive pay, Cisco typically pays as follows:

  • .75% of incentive target for each 1% of revenue attainment up to 50% of quota;

  • 1.5% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 50% and 75%;

  • 1% of incentive target for each 1% of attainment between 75% and 100%; and

  • Once performance exceeds 100% attainment, incentive rates are at or above 1% for each 1% of attainment with no cap on incentive compensation.

For non-quota-based sales performance elements such as strategic sales objectives, Cisco may pay 0% up to 125% of target. Cisco sales plans do not have a minimum threshold of performance for sales incentive compensation to be paid.

The applicable full salary ranges for this position, by specific state, are listed below:

New York City Metro Area:

$125,700.00 - $203,100.00

Non-Metro New York state & Washington state:

$111,700.00 - $180,800.00

* For quota-based sales roles on Cisco's sales plan, the ranges provided in this posting include base pay and sales target incentive compensation combined.

** Employees in Illinois, whether exempt or non-exempt, will participate in a unique time off program to meet local requirements.


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About Cisco Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cisco Systems, a global tech titan based in San Jose, CA, US, operates in the information technology and services industry. Founded in 1984, the company was derived from a project between two computer scientists from Stanford University. They aimed to connect different networks of computer systems at the university, resulting in the first multi-protocol router, and subsequently, the birth of Cisco. As an industry-leading manufacturer of networking hardware and telecommunications equipment, Cisco's product and services range includes routers, switches, firewall devices, and telecommunication technology. The company's mission, "to shape the future of the Internet by creating unprecedented value and opportunity for our customers, employees, investors, and ecosystem partners," is a testament to its pursuit of technology-forward innovation and customer satisfaction.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Jose, CA, US

Year founded

1984

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