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Entry Level Backend Developer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Automation Engineer Junior

Ashburn, VA · Hybrid

$40K - $80K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation ... Experience in all stages of application testing, including backend testing, functional, usability ...

SAIC

Automation Engineer Junior

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation Engineer to ... Experience in all stages of application testing, including backend testing, functional, usability ...

SAIC

Automation Engineer Junior

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$40K - $80K/yr

ORA_ON_SITE Description We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation ... Experience in all stages of application testing, including backend testing, functional, usability ...

Pattern Data

Software Engineer (Entry)

Richmond, VA

$90K - $115K/yr

Support back-end development using Scala * Be a pioneer in the legaltech industry. You'll collaborate with our product, analytics, and engineering teams to build well-designed and scalable solutions ...

Pattern Data

Software Engineer (Entry)

Richmond, VA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

Support back-end development using Scala * Be a pioneer in the legaltech industry. You'll collaborate with our product, analytics, and engineering teams to build well-designed and scalable solutions ...

CloudFit Software

Command & Control Engineer

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$14.42 - $21.63/hr

Cloud and DevOps certifications * Proven track record of leading customers digital transformation ... Sunday - Wednesday, 12am - 10am Backend Team: * 1st Shift: Wednesday - Saturday, 7am - 5pm * 2nd ...

Chenega MIOS

Jr. Database Engineer

Vienna, VA · On-site

You will work both independently and as part of project teams to configure back-end geospatial ... From entry-level employees to senior leaders, we believe theres always room to learn. We offer ...

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Entry Level Backend Developer information

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How much do entry level backend developer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level backend developer in Virginia is $57.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46.97 and $67.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level backend developer do?

An entry level backend developer is responsible for building and maintaining the server-side logic, databases, and APIs for web or mobile applications. They work closely with front-end developers to ensure that data flows smoothly from the server to the user interface. Typical tasks include writing and testing code, debugging issues, and collaborating with team members to implement new features. Entry level backend developers often use programming languages such as Python, Java, or Node.js, and work with databases like MySQL or MongoDB. Their role is essential for ensuring that applications run efficiently and securely behind the scenes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Backend Developer vs Junior Backend Developer?

AspectEntry Level Backend DeveloperJunior Backend Developer
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related field; some certifications like AWS or Java may helpSimilar credentials; often includes internships or limited work experience
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in tech companies, startups, or agencies; focus on learning and support tasksSimilar environments; often involves assisting senior developers and gaining hands-on experience
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in software development, tech, and IT industriesWidely used in similar industries, often interchangeable in job listings

Both roles are entry-level positions requiring foundational programming skills and a basic understanding of backend technologies. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Junior Backend Developer' may imply slightly more experience or familiarity with specific tools. Both roles serve as stepping stones toward more advanced backend development careers.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level backend developers in their first year, and how can they overcome them?

Entry level backend developers often encounter challenges such as understanding legacy codebases, adapting to new frameworks or technologies, and ensuring their code integrates smoothly with front-end components. To overcome these, it's helpful to ask questions early, review documentation thoroughly, and participate in code reviews with more experienced team members. Collaborating closely with QA and front-end teams can also clarify requirements and improve overall product quality, making the onboarding process smoother and more effective.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Backend Developer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Backend Developer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages such as Java, Python, or Node.js, along with knowledge of databases and algorithms, typically supported by a computer science degree or coding bootcamp experience. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, RESTful APIs, and frameworks such as Express or Django is important. Problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you collaborate with other developers and troubleshoot issues efficiently. These skills ensure you can build reliable server-side applications and contribute effectively to development teams.
What are the most commonly searched types of Backend Developer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Backend Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Backend Developer jobs in Virginia? For Entry Level Backend Developer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Backend Developer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Backend Developer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Backend Developer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Backend Developer job openings:
Entry Level Backend Developer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Backend Developer job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 22% Contract, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,056 per year, or $57.2 per hour.
Automation Engineer Junior

Automation Engineer Junior

SAIC

Ashburn, VA • Hybrid

$40K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 207 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2613931

Location: Ashburn, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-06-23

Category: Software

Subcategory: SW Testing

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Public Trust

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

We are currently seeking a motivated and energetic entry-level Automation Engineer to join our team to begin an exciting and challenging career.

Position Summary

The Automation Engineer will participate in software testing, creation and implementation of Test Strategies, Plans, and Automated Test Scripts as well as other aspects of the software development lifecycle. The candidate will be responsible for developing and testing web applications as dictated by project requirement.

Job Responsibilities

  • Developing automation test scripts.
  • Generating test data and performing Data Validation.
  • Data interface message testing with JSON and XML message sets.
  • Developing SQL or Unix scripts for test data generation or test harness automation.
  • Execute regression, functional, and system testing.
  • Verifying results and producing test summaries and defect reports.
  • Identifying defects and requirement discrepancies, and generating defect change requests and reporting discrepancies.
  • Use modern software engineering IDEs including Eclipse, IntelliJ, etc. for design, development, and testing the software.
  • Work with users in an Agile development approach to understand and document requirements in JIRA.

Qualifications

Required Skills and Experience

  • Bachelor’s in Computer Science or related field with 2+ years of technical experience.
  • Experience with Java/JEE design and software development experience including designing, developing, and documenting large-scale enterprise software systems.
  • Spring Boot.
  • Selenium WebDriver, TestNG.
  • Basic SQL query skills and general understanding of relational databases.
  • Ability to understand data models and write test scripts based on the data model.
  • Evaluate test results, report and manage defects.
  • Good understanding of object-oriented programming and data structures.
  • Ability to work in a high-pressure, tight-deadline environment.
  • Good written/oral communication skills and problem-solving skills; ability to communicate information to a variety of groups at different technical skill levels.
  • Strong initiative: must be able to take a high-level requirement, ask questions/seek clarifications, and get the job done.

Desired Skills and Experience

  • Experience with any one of the following test management software (Bugzilla, Jira, Rally.)
  • Experience in all stages of application testing, including backend testing, functional, usability, regression, load/stress and performance testing.
  • Experience with integration level testing, requiring ability to work with both big picture & in-depth domain knowledge.
  • Proven ability to develop, execute and maintain automated test suites across multiple environments: frontend/backend applications and API Service testing using tools such as Soap UI and Postman with basic JSON and XML knowledge.
  • Experience with any SPA framework testing tools (e.g. e2e, Protractor.)
  • Prior experience in a software development arena is a plus.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills. Must have the ability to present solutions to technical and non-technical project members.
  • Experience working in an agile development process is a plus.
  • Customer Requirements
  • Clearance – Ability to obtain and hold a public trust position and favorable suitability based on a CBP Background Investigation.
  • Citizenship – Must be a US Citizen.
  • Location – Required to be on-site in Ashburn, VA 5 days per week for the first year of employment. After the first year, have the option to work a hybrid schedule (2 days on-site) depending on the needs of the team.

Target salary range: $40,001 - $80,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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