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Entry Level Computer Engineer Jobs in McLean, VA

Nwis

Junior DevOps Engineer

Annapolis Junction, MD

$58 - $79.50/hr

This entry-level role is ideal for a recent college graduate with strong foundations in software ... Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Software Engineering, System Engineering, Computer ...

Securiport

Jr. Quality Assurance Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

This is an entry-level opportunityideal for a recent college graduate or early-career professional with a degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special ... Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer ...

Imperative Systems

Design Engineer

Alexandria, VA

Overview Imperative is seeking an entry\-level systems Design Engineer to be part of a special ... Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical and Computer ...

Systems-Logic Inc

JAVA Developer

Sterling, VA

$50.50 - $65.25/hr

Qualifications: - Bachelors, Masters in Computer Science/ Computer Engineering/ Information Systems ... Entry Level/Fresher/experience Locations: PA, MD, TN, DE, CT, CA, NY, NJ, CA, VA, DC, etc. (must ...

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All JobsComputer Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Engineer JobsEntry Level Computer Engineer Jobs in McLean, VA

Entry Level Computer Engineer information

See McLean, VA salary details

$30.3K

$70.1K

$119.3K

How much do entry level computer engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer engineer in McLean, VA is $70,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $79,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do entry-level computer engineers do?

Entry-level computer engineers assist in designing, developing, and testing computer hardware and software systems. They often work under supervision to troubleshoot issues, write code, and learn industry tools and programming languages such as C++, Java, or Python. This role provides foundational experience for more advanced engineering positions and may involve collaborating with cross-functional teams.

What are some typical projects or tasks an entry level computer engineer can expect to work on in their first year?

As an entry level computer engineer, you'll likely be involved in supporting more senior engineers with tasks such as debugging hardware or software, conducting system tests, writing and maintaining code, and assisting with documentation. You may also help design and prototype circuit boards, work on firmware updates, or contribute to integration projects. Collaborative work is common, so expect to participate in team meetings and cross-functional projects, which is a great opportunity to learn from experienced colleagues and understand the broader workflow of product development.

What Does an Entry-Level Computer Engineer Do?

As an entry-level computer engineer, your job is to help code and test hardware and software for your company. In this role, you may evaluate system requirements, make recommendations about computer purchases, and respond to technical support requests throughout the company. Entry-level computer engineers often focus on learning more about the unique operating environment of their employer, including any unique hardware or software the company uses. Senior computer employers often supervise your work, especially at companies that use this job as an extended training position. Other details of this job vary by company. For example, some computer engineers focus on cloud systems, while others help install new workstations.

What is harder, CS or CE?

For entry-level computer engineers, both computer science (CS) and computer engineering (CE) can be challenging, but CS often emphasizes programming, algorithms, and theory, while CE combines hardware and software skills. The difficulty depends on individual strengths and interests, as well as the specific coursework and projects involved in each field.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Engineer, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, software fundamentals, and programming languages like C++ or Python, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering or a related field. Familiarity with development environments, version control systems (such as Git), and basic circuit design tools is commonly expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set exceptional candidates apart. These skills enable engineers to efficiently develop, troubleshoot, and collaborate on technology solutions in dynamic, innovation-driven environments.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in fields such as software, electrical, or aerospace engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced certifications, or managing large projects and teams.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, data engineering, or systems architecture can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in senior or executive roles at large tech companies. Achieving this level often requires advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes stock options or bonuses.

What is the difference between Entry Level Computer Engineer vs Entry Level Software Developer?

AspectEntry Level Computer EngineerEntry Level Software Developer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Computer Engineering, certifications like Cisco or CompTIABachelor's in Computer Science or Software Engineering, certifications like Microsoft or AWS
Work EnvironmentHardware labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsOffice settings, coding environments, software development teams
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, manufacturing, telecommunicationsSoftware firms, tech startups, IT departments
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles in tech hardware and systemsCommonly compared for software development careers

Entry Level Computer Engineers typically focus on hardware, embedded systems, and system integration, working in environments that involve physical components. In contrast, Entry Level Software Developers primarily work on coding, software applications, and programming tasks. Both roles require a bachelor's degree and relevant certifications, but their work environments and industry focus differ significantly.

What does an entry level computer engineer do?

An entry level computer engineer typically assists in designing, developing, testing, and maintaining computer hardware and software systems. Their responsibilities may include troubleshooting technical issues, writing code, assembling hardware components, and supporting senior engineers on various projects. Entry level roles provide hands-on experience and help new engineers build foundational skills in areas like programming, circuit design, and network configuration. These positions are ideal for recent graduates or those new to the field, offering opportunities to learn and grow within the technology sector.
More about Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA? The most popular types of Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA? For Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs in McLean, VA are:
What cities near McLean, VA are hiring for Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs? Cities near McLean, VA with the most Entry Level Computer Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Computer Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Engineer job openings in McLean, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 61% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,115 per year, or $33.7 per hour.

Junior DevOps Engineer

Nwis

Annapolis Junction, MD

$58 - $79.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing is seeking a highly motivated Junior DevOps engineer to join our technical team. This entry-level role is ideal for a recent college graduate with strong foundations in software build environments and maintenance tools for automated, fast, and secure software delivery, by creating CI/CD pipelines, managing infrastructure-as-code, monitoring systems, and automating releases to ensure smooth, reliable application deployment and performance, requiring strong collaboration and technical skills in automation and system administration.

CLEARANCE: Top Secret /SCI with POLY on day one of employment.

Required Skills:

  • Developing Infrastructure As Code and scripting to automate tasks, provision managed services, and build tools in Python and Ansible

  • Experience patching, hardening, and maintaining compliance of Linux systems

  • Install, configure, and provide performance tuning utilizing: Kubernetes, Docker Compose, Nifi, and cloud native logging and metrics collection tools.

  • Managing CI/CD pipelines to automate building, testing, and deploying code utilizing GitLab runners.

  • Communication and collaboration: DevOps is a team-oriented discipline. Engineers need to be able to communicate and collaborate effectively with other team members, as well as with stakeholders.

Desired Skills:

  • Develop and manage Gitlab CI/CD pipelines to automate deployment processes

  • Collaborate with development teams to optimize application performance and reliability.

  • Troubleshoot infrastructure issues and ensure system uptime

  • Kubernetes experience

Required Education (including Major):

  • Bachelor's degree in computer engineering, Software Engineering, System Engineering, Computer Science, or another related field

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays and additional insurances.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we'll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.


Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.

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