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Entry Level Associate Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

VTG

Senior Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA

$122K - $161K/yr

The Associate Software Engineer will support our Navy customer's tactical system that is comprised of everything between legacy software installed on bare metal to micro-containers running in an on ...

VTG Defense

Senior Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA

$122K - $161K/yr

The Associate Software Engineer will support our Navy customer's tactical system that is comprised of everything between legacy software installed on bare metal to micro-containers running in an on ...

VTG

Senior Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$122K - $161K/yr

The Associate Software Engineer will support our Navy customer's tactical system that is comprised of everything between legacy software installed on bare metal to micro-containers running in an on ...

VTG

Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Overview VTG is seeking a highly qualified Associate Software Engineer with hands on experience with design and integration using C++ and Qt to develop a Human Machine Interface and Control ...

VTG

Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Overview VTG is seeking a highly qualified Associate Software Engineer with hands on experience with design and integration using C++ and Qt to develop a Human Machine Interface and Control ...

STR

Associate Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Associate Software Engineer will work with scientists and engineers to transform advanced concepts and algorithms into software implementations for prototypes and operational systems, enhancing ...

STR

Associate Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Associate Software Engineer will work with scientists and engineers to design and implement algorithmic solutions for prototypes and operational systems, enhancing software architecture for real ...

VTG

Senior Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA

$122K - $161K/yr

The Associate Software Engineer will support our Navy customer's tactical system that is comprised of everything between legacy software installed on bare metal to micro-containers running in an on ...

VTG

Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA

Overview VTG is seeking a highly qualified Associate Software Engineer with hands on experience with design and integration using C++ and Qt to develop a Human Machine Interface and Control ...

VT Group (VTG)

Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

VTG is seeking a highly qualified Associate Software Engineer with hands-on experience in design and integration using C++ and Qt. The role involves developing Human Machine Interface and Control ...

STR

Associate Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$93K - $115K/yr

The SAAM group is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to join high-performing teams transforming advanced concepts and algorithms into software implementations for prototypes and operational ...

VTG

Senior Associate Software Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

Overview VTG is seeking a Senior Associate Software Engineer with specific skills to optimize our Python-based software for modeling sonar array performance and other tactical use cases. The primary ...

STR

Associate Software Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$93K - $115K/yr

The SAAM group is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to join high-performing teams transforming advanced concepts and algorithms into software implementations for prototypes and operational ...

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All JobsEntry Level Associate Software Engineer JobsEntry Level Associate Software Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC

Entry Level Associate Software Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$24.9K

$51K

$73.6K

How much do entry level associate software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level associate software engineer in Washington, DC is $51,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $56,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Entry Level Associate Software Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer, you need a solid grasp of programming languages (such as Java, Python, or C++), computer science fundamentals, and typically a bachelor’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, basic debugging tools, and IDEs, as well as any relevant internships or coding certifications, is highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, collaboration, adaptability, and clear communication skills are essential to stand out. These qualifications enable you to effectively contribute code, learn in a team environment, and grow quickly in a fast-paced industry.

What does a typical day look like for an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer?

A typical day for an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer often starts with a team stand-up meeting to discuss progress and upcoming tasks. You'll spend much of your time writing and testing code, fixing bugs, and collaborating with more senior engineers or cross-functional teams on projects. Expect to participate in code reviews, attend learning sessions or trainings, and sometimes work on documentation or tickets assigned from agile sprints. The role usually offers a supportive environment where asking questions and learning from teammates is encouraged. This hands-on, interactive mix of responsibilities helps you quickly build both technical and soft skills essential for career advancement.

What is an Entry Level Associate Software Engineer job?

An Entry Level Associate Software Engineer is a junior role in software development where individuals assist in designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications. They typically work under the guidance of senior engineers to develop solutions based on project requirements. Responsibilities may include debugging code, writing documentation, and participating in team meetings. This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with limited professional experience looking to grow their technical skills. Strong problem-solving abilities and knowledge of programming languages like Java, Python, or C++ are commonly required.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC? For Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:
Entry Level Associate Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Associate Software Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 74% In-person, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,012 per year, or $24.5 per hour.
Associate Software Engineer

Associate Software Engineer

Innovative Defense Technologies

Arlington, VA

$72K - $114K/yr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description


About The Role:
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking an Associate Software Engineer to be part of our Warfare Systems team and based out of our Arlington, VA, and Mount Laurel, NJ locations.
The Associate Software Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and integrating software solutions across IDT's Warfare Systems business area. The primary role of the Software Engineer is to build high-quality, innovative, and fully performing software that integrates with other system components. The Software Engineer will be working with various Warfare Systems customers to gather user requirements, define system functionality, and write code in various languages, like Java, C++, and Python. You will work with other software engineers, systems engineers, integration engineers, and subject matter experts to deliver robust technical solutions.
Clearance & Location Requirements:
  • All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
  • This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 5 days in the office, based out of our Arlington, VA, and Mount Laurel, VA locations.

Department
Engineering
Employment Type
Full Time
Location
Arlington, VA
Address
4401 Wilson Boulevard Suite 810, Arlington, Virginia, 22203
Open in Google Maps
Workplace type
Onsite
Compensation
$72,000 - $114,450 / year
Key Responsibilities
What You Will Do:
  • Engineers Solutions: Design, develop, document, and test backend software components and algorithms using modern programming languages such as C++, Python, Java, or C#. Apply appropriate data structures, modular design principles, and performance optimization techniques to deliver scalable, maintainable solutions.
  • Scopes Requirements: Analyze and interpret system and software requirements to ensure clarity, feasibility, and traceability. Collaborate with engineers and stakeholders to translate high-level mission and system needs into functional backend implementations.
  • Integrates Systems: Integrate software components into complex development environments, ensuring interoperability across distributed systems, APIs, databases, and networking layers within DoD software ecosystems.
  • Assures Quality: Apply secure coding practices and established engineering standards related to security, performance, and reliability. Participate in peer reviews of architecture designs, system requirements, and implemented code to ensure technical rigor and mission alignment.
  • Verification & Testing: Model, implement, and test algorithms and backend services using unit and interface testing frameworks. Validate system functionality, edge cases, and performance constraints across development and integration environments.
  • Manages Risk & Security: Identify potential technical and cybersecurity risks within software implementations. Apply defensive programming, input validation, and system-level safeguards to harden software against vulnerabilities and operational threats.
  • Leverages AI Responsibly: Utilize AI coding assistants to support code generation, refactoring, debugging, and root-cause analysis while critically reviewing outputs to ensure correctness, security, and adherence to engineering standards.
  • Collaborates Across Teams: Work within small, cross-site teams of software and systems engineers. Communicate technical concepts clearly and collaborate with Program Managers and Chief Engineers to document, manage, and evolve system and software requirements.
  • Delivers Results in Dynamic Environments: Manage multiple concurrent assignments, adapt to changing priorities, and contribute to meeting program milestones while maintaining high standards of technical excellence and accountability.

Skills Knowledge & Expertise
Who You Are (Required):
  • Bachelor's Degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data Science, Cyber Security, Mathematics, Aeronautical Engineering, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
  • 0-2+ years of full-time professional experience in backend software development or related technical roles (internship experience applicable).
  • Ability to travel up to 15% of the time as needed.
  • Familiarity with the software development lifecycle (requirements through deployment).
  • Proficiency in at least one modern backend language (e.g., Python, Java, C++, C#).
  • Ability to design, develop, and analyze algorithms and backend software systems.
  • Understanding of Windows and Linux file systems.
  • Experience using version control systems (e.g., Git).
  • Understanding of APIs (REST/gRPC) and modular code design principles.
  • Familiarity with SQL and relational databases (e.g., Postgres).
  • Familiarity with networking fundamentals and protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, UDP, CORBA, DDS).
  • Ability to review, critique, and harden AI-generated code.
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent assignments and adjust priorities as needed.
  • Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and technical communication abilities.

What Makes You Stand Out
  • Experience with cloud computing, virtualization, or containerization technologies.
  • Familiarity with cloud infrastructure platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS, GCP).
  • Experience with big data technologies (e.g., Hadoop, Spark, Kafka, Cassandra).
  • Demonstrated experience using AI coding assistants (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, Cursor, Codeium) for code generation, optimization, debugging, and iterative improvement.
  • Ability to write effective prompts and iterate with AI tools to enhance performance and code quality.
  • Understanding of AI limitations, hallucinations, and validation techniques.
  • Experience with unit testing and interface testing frameworks.
  • Exposure to complex DoD or defense-related software systems.


If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.
Pay Range*: $72,000 - $114,450
*Pursuant to New Jersey Senate Bill 2310 IDT is required to disclose the "pay scale" or "pay range" associated with a job posting. Notably, however, this amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate's experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. Click here for additional information about Senate Bill 2310. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.
This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate's experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.
Job Benefits
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT)
IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:
  • Generous benefits package
  • Competitive PTO
  • Paid holidays
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
  • 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
  • Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
  • Professional Development Resources
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
  • Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards
  • Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches


EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.
About Innovative Defense Technologies
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is a leading defense technology company focused on rapidly delivering mission-critical software and systems solutions to the U.S. government. The company specializes in automation, digital engineering, and enabling the rapid integration of advanced capabilities into complex weapon and combat systems. These essential solutions empower the warfighter to field, operate, and sustain decisive capability at speed and scale. At IDT, our employees are developing advanced mission-critical outcomes by consistently delivering high-quality results, fostering innovation, applying rigorous problem-solving, and effectively collaborating across multifaceted teams and stakeholders. Grounded in these competencies, IDT translates complex customer priorities into robust software solutions.
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