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Associate Software Development Engineer Jobs in Maryland

ManTech

Associate Software Engineer

Fort George G Meade, MD · On-site

$76K - $128K/yr

... and Software Development. Elevate your career and make a difference. Your adventure begins now ... MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Associate Software Engineer to join our ...

Deegit Inc

SDET Developer

Silver Spring, MD · On-site

$51.75 - $66.75/hr

Software Development Engineer in Test (SDET) is to develop and execute software test plans in order to identify software problems and their causes. Strong java development skills JavaScript ...

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All JobsAssociate Software Development Engineer JobsAssociate Software Development Engineer Jobs in Maryland

Associate Software Development Engineer information

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$18

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$95

How much do associate software development engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for associate software development engineer in Maryland is $40.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.62 and $43.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate software development engineer?

Associate Software Development Engineers are entry-level professionals who assist in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior developers, contributing to coding, debugging, and documenting software projects. This role serves as a foundational position in a software engineering career, providing opportunities to learn industry best practices and collaborate with experienced team members. Associate Software Development Engineers often participate in code reviews, troubleshoot issues, and help ensure that software meets quality and performance standards.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate software development engineer?

To thrive as an Associate Software Development Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), algorithms, and data structures, often supported by a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and basic software development lifecycle methodologies is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, a willingness to learn, and effective teamwork set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are vital for building reliable software, adapting to evolving technologies, and collaborating in dynamic development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by associate software development engineers when joining a new team?

Associate Software Development Engineers often encounter challenges such as adapting to established codebases, understanding team workflows, and getting acquainted with company-specific development tools. It can take time to become comfortable with version control systems, code review processes, and agile methodologies commonly used by development teams. Building effective communication with senior engineers and learning to balance independent problem-solving with seeking guidance are also key aspects of the initial learning curve.

What is the difference between Associate Software Development Engineer vs Software Development Engineer?

AspectAssociate Software Development EngineerSoftware Development Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in CS or related field, some internshipsBachelor's or higher in CS, more experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, team-based projects, training programsMore complex projects, increased responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, startups, large corporationsSame as Associate role, with more senior positions
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level roles, career progressionMid-level roles, career growth

The main difference between an Associate Software Development Engineer and a Software Development Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. The Associate role is typically entry-level, focusing on learning and supporting projects, while the SDE has more experience and handles more complex tasks. Both roles are common in tech companies and serve as stepping stones in a software engineering career.

What are the most commonly searched types of Software Development Engineer jobs in Maryland? The most popular types of Software Development Engineer jobs in Maryland are:
What cities in Maryland are hiring for Associate Software Development Engineer jobs? Cities in Maryland with the most Associate Software Development Engineer job openings:
Associate Software Development Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Software Development Engineer job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,250 per year, or $41 per hour.

Software Development Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you have an interest in developing software for new warfighter capabilities. Are you passionate about using innovation and technology to solve technical challenges?
We are looking for a Software Development Engineer to join our close-knit prototyping team. We build capabilities that enable warfighters to harness multiple sets of sensors and data sources to accomplish a variety of missions that are important to the defense of our nation.
Our team is committed to working directly with warfighters to craft solutions from concept to operational use. We strive to foster an inviting environment that is highly collaborative and supportive, but also encourages autonomy. Our team values are putting the warfighter and their missions first, accepting that you might not get it right the first time, but being resolved to see it through, and being dedicated to making real impact.
As a Software Development Engineer, you will...
  • Research and develop concepts to solve unaddressed, critical military operational shortfalls as a member of an established team that has fielded numerous highly regarded capabilities. Subject areas differ widely over time, but our current projects focus on improving the exploitation of airborne and ground based sensor data through object tracking, multi-sensor correlation, data management, and operational data display as well as on intelligent networks, resilient autonomy, and non-kinetic warfare integration.
  • Perform system design and software implementation of proof-of-concept prototypes incorporating several engineering fields: software development, signal/video processing, artificial intelligence, real-time computing, applied mathematics, network/web services, and visualization.
  • Support prototype evaluation, experimental operations at military facilities, and transitions of capabilities to government or industry.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Possess a BS or MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Have at least 2+ years of experience in complex software development particularly in the areas of object-oriented programming, database design, signal processing, sensor/system interfaces, artificial intelligence, data visualization, and user interfaces. Significant knowledge of C++ or Java in a Linux/Unix environment is also needed.
  • Are able to work collaboratively in a close team environment.
  • Can occasionally travel and work at government and military facilities, including underway on US Navy ships and aircraft requiring work outside of and in excess of normal working hours.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Possess and MS in EE, CS or related field.
  • Have 5 years of experience with complex software development.
  • Have a strong ability to successfully apply educational background to real-world engineering problems
  • Desire to build computer science/software development expertise to address emerging challenges.
  • Have interest and initiative to grow into a leadership position

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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