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Entry Level Computer Programmer Jobs in Decatur, AL

Entry-Level Radar Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a talented Entry-Level Radar Engineer to join a diverse team to ... Master's degree, preferably in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering from an ABET ...

Entry-Level Radar Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Leidos Defense Systems is seeking a talented Entry-Level Radar Engineer to join a diverse team to ... Bachelor's degree, preferably in Electrical Engineering or Computer Engineering from an ABET ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Computer Programmer information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$30.9K

$60.9K

$89.5K

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

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level computer programmer in Decatur, AL is $60,910.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,300.00 and $75,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level computer programmer?

Entry Level Computer Programmers are professionals who write, test, and maintain computer code under supervision, usually at the start of their careers. They typically work with more experienced developers to learn best practices and develop their coding skills. Their responsibilities may include debugging programs, writing simple scripts, and assisting in software development projects. Entry level programmers often have a degree in computer science or a related field and are proficient in one or more programming languages. This role serves as a foundation for advancing to more complex software engineering positions.

What does an entry level computer programmer do?

The job of an entry-level computer programmer is to write code, troubleshoot design issues, and debug software. They typically work as part of a software development team or under direct supervision. An entry-level computer programmer may sit in on development meetings and perform other administrative tasks as needed. The qualifications you need to become an entry-level computer programmer typically include a bachelor's degree and a working knowledge of one or more programming languages.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level computer programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Computer Programmer, you need a solid understanding of programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), problem-solving abilities, and at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with integrated development environments (IDEs), version control systems like Git, and debugging tools is typically expected. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn help individuals excel in collaborative and dynamic environments. These skills and qualities are important for delivering reliable code, adapting to evolving project needs, and contributing effectively to software development teams.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level computer programmers during their first year on the job?

Entry level computer programmers often encounter challenges such as adapting to new development tools, understanding complex codebases, and managing project deadlines. It's common to feel overwhelmed by unfamiliar programming languages or frameworks, but most teams offer mentorship and training to help with the transition. Collaboration with senior developers and participating in code reviews are valuable opportunities to learn best practices and improve coding skills. Over time, persistence and proactive communication can help overcome these initial hurdles and contribute to professional growth.

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

AspectEntry Level Computer ProgrammerSoftware Developer
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's in Computer Science or related fieldBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications like Java or Python are common
Work EnvironmentOffice or remote; coding in teams or individuallySimilar; often collaborative, project-based work
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level roles in tech, finance, healthcare, and moreBroader; includes designing, developing, testing software
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Computer Programmers typically focus on writing and testing code under supervision, while Software Developers are involved in designing and building software solutions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Software Developers often have broader responsibilities and higher expectations for project involvement.

How to get a job as an entry level computer programmer with no experience?

To secure an entry level computer programmer position with no experience, focus on building a strong foundation in programming languages like Python or Java through online courses and personal projects. Internships, volunteering, or contributing to open-source projects can also demonstrate skills to employers and improve your chances of getting hired.

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Computer Programmer jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Computer Programmer job openings in Decatur, AL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $60,910 per year, or $29.3 per hour.

Junior Software Engineer - Modeling and Simulation

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Aviation & Missile Solutions
Engineering Professional Services • 51 - 200 employees

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Junior Software Engineer – Modeling and Simulation

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  • Job Tracking ID : 260813
  • Job Location : Huntsville, AL
  • Job Level : Entry Level (less than 2 years)
  • Level of Education : BA/BS
  • Job Type : Full-Time/Regular
  • Date Updated : 08/18/2026
  • Years of Experience : College
  • Starting Date : Invalid Date
  • Salary : $
Job Description

Aviation & Missile Solutions, LLC. (AMS) is seeking a talented Software Developer with a degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related STEM discipline to join our diverse team, in Huntsville, AL., to create unique solutions for complex problems. AMS provides responsive, cost-effective engineering and scientific solutions ranging from air and missile defense technologies, command and control, radar systems, seekers, modeling & simulation, and prototype hardware development and testing.

Position Description:

The Software Engineer performing this role works alongside senior engineering staff and domain experts to develop, maintain, and test high-fidelity, physics-based simulation models for the US Army radar systems.

In this entry-level role, you will receive direct mentorship while writing modern C++ software, learning GPU acceleration (CUDA), running simulation test suites, and integrating digital models into real-time Hardware-in-the-Loop (HWIL) testbeds within the Government System Integration Lab (GSIL) and faster-than-real-time cluster execution environments (IAMDSIM). This position provides a strong growth trajectory in defense software engineering, high-performance computing, and radar signal processing.

Essential Duties/ Responsibilities:

  • Software Development & Maintenance: Under mentorship, design, implement, and maintain modular C++ source code for radar subsystem models (transmitters, receivers, signal processing, and environmental effects). Refactor and optimize existing algorithms for human readability, maintainability, and native Linux execution.
  • Integration & Testing Support: Support the execution of digital M&S models in both real-time HWIL and discrete event digital simulation frameworks. Execute pre-test simulation runs to verify test plans, target geometry, and tactical software builds prior to field testing.
  • Data Analysis & Verification: Process and visualize simulation output data to assist in comparing model performance against empirical field test data.

Location:

  • Huntsville, AL
  • Position is full-time in the office.
Experience and Skills

Basic Qualifications (required):

  • Proficiency in C++ (C++11 or newer) gained through coursework, academic projects, research, or internships.
  • Solid understanding of core computer science fundamentals: data structures, algorithms, object-oriented design, and software debugging.
  • Familiarity with Linux/Unix operating system environments (RHEL, Rocky Linux, Ubuntu, or CentOS).
  • Basic understanding of Git version control operations.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills for collaborating in a team environment.
  • United States Citizenship.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance.
  • Resident of the Huntsville, AL area or be willing to relocate.

Preferred Skills/Abilities:

  • Coursework or project experience in parallel computing or GPU programming concepts (e.g., NVIDIA CUDA, OpenMP, or multi-threading).
  • Coursework or academic projects involving digital signal processing, linear algebra, electromagnetics, physics simulations, or numerical methods.
  • Familiarity with build systems (e.g., CMake) or dependency management tools (e.g., Conan).
  • Exposure to Python or bash scripting for automated testing and data visualization.
  • An active DoD Secret Security Clearance.

Required Education and Experience:

  • Candidate must possess a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a closely related STEM discipline from ABET accredited university.
  • Experience: 0 to 2 years of professional or technical software engineering experience. Recent college graduates and entry-level candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
  • GPA must be 3.5+.

Travel Requirements:

  • Must be able to travel up to 5% of the year.

Physical Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on computers, monitors, and development workstations.
  • Must be able to lift and move standard computer hardware and lab equipment up to 20 lbs during lab configuration or equipment maintenance.
  • Ability to perform duties in standard office, closed-area facility, and software integration laboratory environments.

Security Requirements:

  • Citizenship: Candidate must be a US only citizen.
  • Clearance level: possess (and be able to maintain) a DoD SECRET Clearance or meet the eligibility to obtain (and maintain) a DoD SECRET SECRET Clearance.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

IMPORTANT: APPLICANTS PLEASE READ
Qualified applicants are considered for employment, and employees are treated during employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status or sexual orientation. Solely to help us comply with federal and state Equal Opportunity record keeping, reporting, and other legal requirements, we request that you complete this data information questionnaire.
PLEASE NOTE:
Refusal to complete this information will not subject any applicant or employee to adverse treatment. The information that you provide will be recorded and maintained in a confidential file, separate from all other records. This information will not be used in consideration for your employment.

Protected veterans may have additional rights under USERRA - the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. In particular, if you were absent from employment in order to perform service in the uniformed service, you may be entitled to be reemployed by your employer in the position you would have obtained with reasonable certainty if not for the absence due to service. For more information, call the U.S. Department of Labor's Veterans Employment and Training Service (VETS), toll- free, at 1-866-4-USA-DOL.

  • Disabled veterans;
  • Recently separated veterans;
  • Active duty wartime or campaign badge veterans;
  • Armed Forces service medal veterans.
  • These classifications are defined as follows:
  • A "disabled veteran" is one of the following:
    • A veteran of the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs;
    • A person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service‑connected disability.
  • A "recently separated veteran" means any veteran during the three‑year period beginning on the date of such veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval, or air service.
  • An "active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran" means a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized under the laws administered by the Department of Defense.
  • An "Armed forces service medal veteran" means a veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985.
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