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Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer Jobs in McLean, VA

LufCo

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

As a Software Engineer for a recently awarded government contract, you are the architect of the highly complex systems that drive our mission forward. We are looking for a creative problem-solver who ...

Beth Page tech

Software Engineer

Maryland City, MD · Remote

Software Engineer Location : Remote Type : Full Time : We are seeking a motivated Junior Software ... This role is ideal for a recent Computer Science graduate eager to apply their programming skills ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek Corporation

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Software Engineer Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

Software Engineer LOCATION Annapolis Junction, MD 20701 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek Corporation

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

Software Engineer LOCATION Reston, VA 20190 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Tysons, VA · On-site

Software Engineer LOCATION Tysons, VA 22182 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this position ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

Cymertek

Software Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

Software Engineer LOCATION Chantilly, VA 20151 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... Most contracts allow additional experience (4-5 years) in lieu of a Bachelor's Degree. Some ...

VTG

Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$105K - $150K/yr

Our Software Engineers are at the forefront of defense technology, crafting high-impact, cutting ... Contingent Upon Contract Award VTG's estimated starting pay range is $105,000-$150,000 which is a ...

LufCo

Software Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD · On-site

Seven (7) or more years experience as a Software Engineer in programs and contracts of similar scope. • SWE2: Fourteen (14) or more years experience as a Software Engineer in programs and contracts ...

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All JobsContract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer JobsContract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer Jobs in McLean, VA

Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer information

See McLean, VA salary details

$64.2K

$149.1K

$207.7K

How much do contract fresh graduate software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract fresh graduate software engineer in McLean, VA is $149,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,300.00 and $174,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a contract fresh graduate software engineer do?

A Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer is a recent university graduate who is hired on a temporary or fixed-term basis to work on software development projects. Their responsibilities typically include writing, testing, and debugging code, collaborating with team members, and learning new technologies. This role offers valuable industry experience and exposure to real-world projects, which can help build foundational skills for a long-term software engineering career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract fresh graduate software engineer?

To thrive as a Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer, you typically need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and a relevant degree in software engineering or computer science. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic exposure to development frameworks, and understanding of software development methodologies are important technical qualifications. Strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and effective communication skills help new graduates stand out in collaborative and fast-paced environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for quickly adapting to project requirements, delivering quality code, and contributing effectively to engineering teams.

What can a contract fresh graduate software engineer expect in terms of mentorship and learning opportunities?

As a contract fresh graduate software engineer, you can typically expect structured onboarding and regular check-ins with senior engineers or mentors, though the intensity and duration may vary between companies. Many organizations offer access to online learning resources, code reviews, and team meetings to help you develop your skills quickly. Since contract roles are often project-based, you'll likely collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, gaining exposure to real-world workflows and technologies. Being proactive in seeking feedback and asking questions will maximize your learning and help you build a strong foundation for future full-time opportunities.

What is the difference between Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer vs Contract Junior Software Developer?

AspectContract Fresh Graduate Software EngineerContract Junior Software Developer
QualificationsRecent CS or related degree, minimal experienceSimilar, often recent graduates or entry-level
Work EnvironmentTeam projects, learning-focusedDevelopment tasks, code implementation
Industry UsageCommon in tech companies, startupsSimilar, widely used in software firms

Both roles target entry-level candidates with similar educational backgrounds. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Software Engineer' emphasizes a broader role, while 'Junior Developer' focuses more on coding tasks. Employers often use these titles interchangeably for fresh graduates starting their careers in software development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Fresh Graduate Software Engineer jobs in McLean, VA?

The most popular types of Fresh Graduate Software Engineer jobs in McLean, VA are:

What cities near McLean, VA are hiring for Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer jobs?

Cities near McLean, VA with the most Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer job openings:

Contract Fresh Graduate Software Engineer jobs near you

Software Engineer

Independent Software

Annapolis Junction, MD • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

What You Will Do:
At Independent Software, as a Software Engineer, you will design, develop, test, and maintain enterprise Java applications supporting mission-critical systems. You will work with modern technologies including Java, Spring Boot, RESTful APIs, relational databases, containerization, Kubernetes, and automated CI/CD pipelines.
You will participate throughout the software development lifecycle, collaborating with engineering teams to build scalable solutions, modernize existing applications, troubleshoot complex technical issues, and improve software quality and deployment reliability.
Key Responsibilities:
 

  • Design, develop, test, and maintain enterprise Java applications using Spring Boot and modern software engineering practices
  • Develop scalable RESTful APIs and backend services
  • Design, optimize, and troubleshoot relational database solutions using MariaDB and other enterprise database technologies
  • Support application modernization through containerization, Kubernetes deployments, and improvements to system architecture
  • Participate in technical design sessions, architecture discussions, code reviews, testing, and troubleshooting
  • Develop and maintain automated testing solutions
  • Build and support GitLab CI/CD pipelines to improve software quality and deployment efficiency
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams throughout the software development lifecycle
  • Use Jira and Confluence to support Agile software development activities

Required Skills and Qualifications:
 
  • Experience developing enterprise applications using Java and Spring Boot or similar modern frameworks
  • Experience designing and developing RESTful APIs and backend services
  • Experience with relational databases such as MariaDB, PostgreSQL, Oracle, or similar technologies
  • Experience with container technologies such as Docker or Podman, Kubernetes, or similar application deployment platforms
  • Experience using Git-based source control and CI/CD pipelines
  • Experience with automated software testing practices
  • Experience working in Agile software development environments
  • Strong software troubleshooting, debugging, and problem-solving
  • Ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional engineering teams

Desired Skills:
 
  • Experience developing Angular or other modern web applications
  • Experience with microservices architecture, application modernization, or cloud-native software development
  • Experience implementing GitLab CI/CD pipelines and DevSecOps practices
  • Experience with SQL performance tuning and high-volume enterprise applications
  • Experience using Jira and Confluence
  • Experience supporting enterprise software in secure or classified environments

Education and Experience:
Level 1
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline from an accredited college or university plus twelve (12) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity; OR
  • Sixteen (16) years of relevant Software Engineering experience may be substituted for the Bachelor’s degree.

Level 2
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related discipline from an accredited college or university plus fourteen (14) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting programs and contracts of similar scope, type, and complexity; OR
  • Eighteen (18) years of relevant Software Engineering experience supporting projects with similar software processes may be substituted for the Bachelor’s degree.

Clearance Requirement:
 
  • Must possess an active TS SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role

Why Choose Independent Software:
At Independent Software, our people are the mission. We’ve built a company around collaboration, integrity, and innovation and we make sure our team has the tools and support to grow, succeed, and thrive.
When you join us, you will:
  • Support critical national security missions that matter
  • Be part of a close-knit, employee-first culture where your voice is heard
  • Expand your skills through ongoing training, mentorship, and career development
  • Enjoy competitive compensation, generous benefits, and work-life balance


Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of something bigger.
Apply today.
We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
 

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