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Associate Programmer Jobs in Arvada, CO (NOW HIRING)

Principal Controls Engineer

Centennial, CO ยท On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

You will guide the engineering team from Associate through Lead levels, resolve the most difficult technical challenges, and partner with leadership on business development and strategic pursuits.

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Associate Programmer information

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How much do associate programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate programmer in Arvada, CO is $23.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.37 and $31.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an associate programmer do?

An Associate Programmer is an entry-level software developer who assists in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior programmers or project managers, contributing to smaller modules or specific tasks within a larger project. Associate Programmers are responsible for writing clean code, fixing bugs, and learning industry best practices. This role often serves as a foundation for gaining experience and advancing to more senior programming positions.

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

To thrive as an Associate Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming fundamentals, coding languages such as Java, Python, or C#, and typically a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, integrated development environments (IDEs), and basic software development methodologies is important. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help set you apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering reliable code, collaborating efficiently, and adapting to evolving project requirements.

What are some common challenges an associate programmer might face when working on a team project?

As an Associate Programmer, one common challenge is adapting to different coding styles and standards used by various team members. Effective communication is essential to understand project requirements and ensure smooth collaboration with designers, senior developers, and testers. Additionally, balancing multiple tasks or learning new technologies quickly can be demanding, but these experiences provide valuable opportunities for skill development and growth within the team.

What is the difference between Associate Programmer vs Junior Software Developer?

AspectAssociate ProgrammerJunior Software Developer
Required CredentialsTypically an associate's degree or relevant certificationsSimilar, often an entry-level degree or certification
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects in tech companiesEntry-level, often in software development teams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in IT and software firms for entry rolesWidely used in tech industry for early-career roles
Comparison Search IntentYesYes

The main difference between an Associate Programmer and a Junior Software Developer lies in job titles used by employers. Both roles are entry-level, require similar educational backgrounds, and work in similar environments within the tech industry. The title 'Associate Programmer' is often used in corporate or structured environments, while 'Junior Software Developer' is more common in startups and tech firms. Both roles serve as stepping stones for a career in software development.

What can I do with an associate programmer's in computer programming?

An associate programmer typically performs tasks such as writing, testing, and maintaining code, often using programming languages like Java, Python, or C++. This role provides a foundation for developing skills in software development, debugging, and working with development tools, which can lead to more advanced programming positions or specialized roles in software engineering. Certifications in programming or related technologies can enhance career growth opportunities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Programmer jobs in Arvada, CO?

The most popular types of Programmer jobs in Arvada, CO are:

What cities near Arvada, CO are hiring for Associate Programmer jobs?

Cities near Arvada, CO with the most Associate Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Programmer job openings in Arvada, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,531 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Principal Controls Engineer

Atlas OT LLC

Centennial, CO โ€ข On-site

$145K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description


Overview
As a Principal Controls Engineer at Atlas OT, you will set the technical direction for integrated automation and controls solutions across a wide range of industries, including energy, manufacturing, food and beverage, water/wastewater, oil and gas, renewables, and more. You will serve as the final technical authority on complex programs involving RTU, PLC, flow computer, SCADA, and DCS systems-shaping how Atlas OT designs, programs, procures, tests, and deploys Operational Technology at scale.
This role owns the company's engineering standards and long-range technology roadmap. You will guide the engineering team from Associate through Lead levels, resolve the most difficult technical challenges, and partner with leadership on business development and strategic pursuits. You'll apply deep expertise across electrical, instrumentation, and controls engineering to support full-service solutions-including panel design, FAT testing, and managed SCADA services-while protecting quality, safety, and profitability.
This is more than a senior engineering role-it is a technical leadership and authority position for an engineer ready to define standards, mentor teams, win strategic accounts, and deliver automation excellence on a global scale.
Duties
  • Define and own Atlas OT's ongoing 5-year technology roadmap and long-range Operational Technology strategy
  • Serve as the final technical authority on complex, multi-platform programs and the escalation point for high-stakes technical disputes and major failures
  • Establish, approve, and govern global code libraries and internal programming standards (IEC 61131-3), ensuring consistent adoption across all engineering levels
  • Architect and approve secure OT network designs, including IDMZ, firewalls, and compliance with IEC 62443 cybersecurity standards
  • Set and enforce engineering quality standards; review and approve work from Associate Engineers through Lead Engineers and guide their adherence to established standards
  • Lead advanced process control, alarm rationalization, and safety system optimization across the project portfolio
  • Partner with Sales and Project Management to estimate project hours and bills of materials (BOMs) for strategic and high-complexity pursuits
  • Play a key role in business development presentations to win strategic accounts
  • Approve critical technical deliverables such as functional specifications, programming logic, and final system designs
  • Design and consult on solutions that span multiple industries (for example, Oil & Gas and Food & Beverage) and represent Atlas OT as a recognized industry authority
  • Mentor and develop engineers across the team, building technical capability and reinforcing Atlas OT standards and values
  • Uphold and continuously improve quality assurance processes, ensuring compliance with industry and company standards

Requirements
Skills Mastery
  • Expert in all five IEC 61131-3 programming languages, with ownership and governance of internal code libraries and template standards
  • Subject matter expert (SME) across multiple automation platforms (e.g., Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Ignition, Phoenix Contact, etc.)
  • Proven ability to architect, approve, and direct complex, multi-platform control systems across multiple sites and industries
  • Deep knowledge of UL, NEC, ISA, and IEC standards; expertise in process safety and functional safety systems
  • Proficiency with ERP/MES integration, cloud technologies (MQTT), and scripting (Python, C#, VBA)
  • Deep experience designing and securing OT networks to industry standards (IEC 62443)
  • Leadership in advanced process control and alarm rationalization strategy
  • Strong attention to detail and analytical thinking, with the ability to set the standard for clear and accurate technical documentation
  • Skilled in quality management, standards governance, and cross-functional collaboration
  • High-level consulting, negotiation, and executive communication skills

Work Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering required; advanced credentials preferred (Master's degree, ISA CAP, PE License - Control Systems, or recognized industry Fellow status)
  • Minimum of 20,000 project hours logged, including multi-site system architecture and technical oversight of major programs (10+ years experience)
  • Prior experience developing and reviewing control narratives, P&IDs, and safety instrumented systems (SIS)
  • Demonstrated industry authority preferred (e.g., published white papers, conference speaking, or ISA/IEEE committee membership)
  • Experience mentoring engineers and building a knowledge-sharing culture across the team
  • Must possess a valid driver's license and be willing to travel as needed
  • Drug-free workplace compliance required

Benefits
Atlas OTemployees are the best, and as such get the best benefits. Our totalcompensation plan provides pay above average for our industry asvalidated by independent third parties. We also provide manyopportunities for bonus compensation for those willing to put inextrahours, refer friends and new clients.
  • Hybrid / Flexibleschedule work
  • Company sponsoredtraining and certifications
  • PPE Reimbursement Program
  • $50/month CellPhone Reimbursement
  • Paid Time off forallFederal Holidays (11 total)
  • 120 hours / year ofaccrued Paid Time Off (inclusiveof 10 Vacation and 5 sick days)
  • Merit Based Rewardsand Bonuses such as
    • Quarterly Bonus
    • Employee recognition
    • New EmployeeReferral Bonus
    • Pick your taxadvantage bonus - elect to gettax-free contributions toeducation expenses such as tuition assistance, dependent care,and retirement.
  • Large groupmedical,vision and dental coverage with:
    • 75% ofemployee's premium covered by Atlas OT
    • 50% of employee's+dependent premium if eligiblecovered by Atlas OT
    • For HSA eligibleplans, employer HSA contributionequal to employeecontribution up to federally allowable limits
  • 401(k) RetirementSavings Plan with employercontributions matching employeecontributions up to 5% or federallyallowable limits.
  • Employee AssistanceProgram (EAP)
  • Employee Perks Program
  • Voluntary EmployeePrograms, including:
    • Pet Insurance
    • Critical Illness
    • Accident Plan
    • Legal Shield
    • ID Shield